With the way technology is progressing, there are many advantages to look forward to. But where there is good, there is always bad. That is why despite constant advancements, cybercrime still rages on. You might think you’re safe from petty hackers, but don’t be fooled!
Nowadays, hacking isn’t limited to just your financial credentials. Instead, it extends to your entire identity being stolen and so much more.
What is Cyber Crime?
Cybercrime, to be specific, refers to any sort of crime that takes place online. Usually, the petty criminals who commit these acts base their organizations online by targeting specific networks, locations, and even certain devices.
Moreover, many people believe that cybercrime is all about hacking. However, that is not the case. There are many different forms of cybercrime, such as:
- Cyber Stalking
- Cyber Bullying
- Phishing
- Revenge Porn
- Child Sexual Exploitation
- Harassment
- Identity Theft
- Cyber Terrorism
- Spamming
How to Prevent Cyber Crime
Considering how dangerous cyber criminals can be, maintaining your safety is an essential part of logging online. Here are some basic prevention tips you can follow to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime yourself.
Use Strong Passwords
Almost all websites, apps, or online services ask you to create a strong password. Include capital letters, small letters, numbers, and special symbols to make it really secure. This will prevent hackers from breaking into your account due to an unpredictable and hard-to-crack password.
Activate Firewall
Think of a firewall as a wall that keeps your data safe and guarded against external threats. A firewall is basically a network security device that filters the network traffic, be it on the outgoing or incoming side. It helps to block connections to sketchy or unsafe websites that might try to hack into your device.
Install Anti Spyware Software
You know how sometimes, when you visit one of those bogus websites flooded with ads, and it automatically starts downloading weird files? When this happens, it could be spyware or malware infiltrating your device. Installing anti-spyware or anti-virus software can help to prevent this.
Enhance Your Social Media Privacy
You know how sometimes, when you visit one of those bogus websites flooded with ads, and it automatically starts downloading weird files? When this happens, it could be spyware or malware infiltrating your device. Installing anti-spyware or anti-virus software can help to prevent this.
Secure Your Cell Phone
Almost every phone has a built-in detection system that blocks third-party app downloads. This is so that you do not accidentally download a virus. You should only stick to authentic online application stores instead.
Go for Encrypted Data
Nowadays, important information is converted into encryption. This is highly secure and perfect for financial transactions, as well as other sensitive files.
Watch Out for Public WiFi
As vital as wifi is, public connections just aren’t secure enough. Try to avoid conducting important business matters through public hot spots.
Be Careful When Online
When filling out personal information online, be extra cautious. Your name, contact number, address, and banking details should be kept private. Ensure online shopping websites are legit and encrypted before giving out your data.
Avoid Clicking on Rogue Links
This is a no-brainer, but no matter how tempting an ad or a link may look, unless you’re sure it comes from a secure source: Do Not Click It.
It could be a trap since cybercriminals extend their hacking abilities through suspicious links.
Install a VPN
Lastly, the best way you can prevent cybercrime is by covering your tracks. Change your IP address entirely by downloading a VPN. This will allow you to surf the world wide web with 0 links tracing back to you or your location.
Long Story Short
Cybercrime prevention needs to be instilled in everyone’s mind, be it a child or adult. Protect yourself and your loved ones from falling prey to cybercriminals by following the tips mentioned above. For more information, contact WE Security at (713)-703-9385.