Is it really possible to be secure when using the Internet? Recent hacking and other events raise a big question mark…
Are You Really Safe on the Internet?
Earlier this week, a friend and I went to see the movie, Disconnect.
Without giving too much away, the film focuses on a number of different individuals, all of whom are negatively impacted by their use of the Internet and digital communication.
In the tech and marketing worlds, we like to focus on the positive aspects of social media – how much we love being able to directly communicate with brands we love, building relationships with our consumers and so on.
But we have to always remember that Cyberspace isn’t always as safe we might like it to be.
One recent example of a security issue on the web was the hacking of the AP’s Twitter account, which prompted Twitter to encourage journalists to change their passwords and use two-step authentication.
Frightening what can happen when a trusted news source reports erroneous information about our trusted institutions (in this case explosions at the White House).
Another example of a major security breach was the hacking of the Livingsocial database, causing 50MM users’ security information to be compromised.
On a more basic level, we have all gotten those emails that seem like they are from a trusted source (i.e. your bank) alerting you to a problem and asking for more personal information to “secure” your account.
Even on Facebook, you can be lured into clicking on a link that will damage your computer with promises of access to celebrity “content.”
So what can you do to protect yourself?
First, you should always make sure to use a strong password that incorporates both letters and numbers and that isn’t easily determined (i.e. not your birthday, etc.).
You should NEVER click on links from anyone you don’t know, especially if they are informing you that you have won something unrealistic.
Usually if it SOUNDS too good to be true, it IS too good to be true!
Next make sure you have a good virus and malware protection program installed on your device.
And never divulge your personal information on websites accessed by clicking links in an email. Instead, if you get a notification asking for your info, contact the organization directly via their official website or by telephone.
Do you have any good tips on Cybersafety? If so, please share them in the Comments…
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