How can you secure your data online?
With so much of our lives held on our digital devices and stored in the cloud, it is becoming easier to lose our identity to a stranger. Although much of our data seems harmless, it can either be stolen or commoditised by another without our permission. Consequently, securing our data online must be as essential as locking our doors and windows at night.
Here we guide you through some of the essential steps to securing your data online.
Protect passwords
One of the obvious tips is the use of passwords. We should all be well beyond the habit of having Password1 as the key to our data. However, we may still be in the habit of using the names of our pets or our children across all devices. It is a better idea to use a password manager, such as 1Password or LastPass, to create strong and unique passwords for each device and online account.
You should also make use of the fingerprint and Touch ID options that are common with new technologies.
Use the locking feature
On your phone, tablet and laptop, there is the option to lock your device. This happens instinctively on mobile devices but we too often walk away from our laptops with the lid up and the screen open. Even if you lock your mobile, you may have lock screen notifications. It might be that someone sends you through a phone number via text message or an email address. This data could be easily accessed by anyone clicking on your Home button without ever unlocking the phone. Therefore, you should disable the lock-screen app notifications if you want to keep this data safe.
Use 2FA
2FA stands for two-factor authentication. Most sites require you to offer more than one way of verifying your identity. However, if you store your files on Google Docs or similar, you will need to activate 2FA to make sure you are the only person who can log in. This security feature might feel inconvenient, especially when it insists you enter a code from your mobile phone or to click on a link in an email. However, as you are the only person who can access this information within the time limit set, your data will be significantly safer.
Use up-to-date security software
We are all aware of the need to have virus protection on our computers. The sophistication of criminal attacks or mischief is rising. Therefore, as we store more of our lives on our devices, the more important it is that we keep our virus software up-to-date. It might be tempting to forgo the expense of a subscription to a virus checker. However, the updates offered in a subscription package will keep you safe from any new attacks being designed daily.
If you are unsure how to feel completely secure online, you can speak to one of the experts at Serval Systems. Contact us today to learn how we can help you keep your data secure online.