5 Ways to Stay Safe While Surfing the Internet

The internet is a tool that allows us to access information, communicate with others, and enjoy various forms of entertainment. However, it also comes with risks and challenges, especially when protecting our personal and sensitive information. Cybercriminals, hackers, scammers, and identity thieves constantly seek ways to exploit our online activities and steal our data. Therefore, it is essential to take some precautions and follow some best practices to keep our information safe on the internet. Here are some tips to help you do that.

1. Use strong and unique passwords for your online accounts. A strong password is long and complex. Your password should include both upper and lowercase letters. Numbers and symbols. A unique password is one that you use for only one account and do not reuse for others. This way, even if one of your passwords is compromised, the rest of your accounts will remain secure. Use a password manager like LastPass to store and manage all your passwords.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. Two-factor has you enter a code, usually sent to your phone, that makes you enter a code before you can continue. This way, even if someone knows your password, they cannot access your account without the additional code. Many online platforms offer 2FA in their settings or security features.

3. Be careful about what you share online and who you share it with. The internet is a public space where anyone can see what you post, comment, or like. Do not post or send anything you would not want others to see or use against you, such as personal information, financial details, photos, or opinions. Also, be wary of phishing emails or clickbait or provide your information. They may look legitimate but are designed to trick you into giving away your data or infecting your device with malware.

4. Use a secure and updated browser and antivirus software. A fast browser encrypts your data and protects you from malicious websites and trackers. You can check if a website is secured by looking for a padlock icon or a "https" prefix in the address bar. An updated browser has the latest security patches and features to prevent hackers from exploiting any vulnerabilities. Similarly, antivirus software is a program that scans your device and detects and removes any viruses, malware, or spyware that may harm your system or data. Keep your browser and antivirus software updated regularly to ensure optimal protection.

5. Use a VPN (virtual private network) when using public Wi-Fi networks. A VPN is a service that creates a secure connection between your device and the internet by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address. This way, you can prevent anyone from snooping on your online activity or intercepting your data using public Wi-Fi networks, such as airports, cafes, or hotels. A VPN can also help you access geo-restricted content or bypass censorship in some countries.