With the advent of technology, the use of paper has decreased in offices. Nowadays all the sensitive information is kept on computers and smartphones. Accessing information on these devices is secure. But it important that you are highly careful about keeping the sensitive information safe.
With the increased use of smartphones, computers, and the internet, the cyber-crime has also increased. If you are not careful about securing your personal data, then it is not difficult to steal the information. Without proper security, you can become a victim of identity theft. People can steal personal information like credit card information, usernames, social security number, etc.
Here are some of the tips that are helpful in making sure that your smartphones and computers are secure.
1. Choose your Passwords Carefully
Make sure that all of your accounts have passwords. Just securing the account with a password is not enough. You have to choose it carefully and make it difficult for anyone to guess. There are several passwords which are used commonly. People often use dates which are special to them like date of birth or anniversaries as their passwords. It is easier for them to remember them but it makes it easy for hackers to crack it and steal your information. Be smart about your passwords.
2. Avoid Spams and Scams by Learning to Identify Them
If you are careful, it is not difficult to spot the scam emails. It is possible that the spam or scam website look very legitimate. You can save yourself from getting into the trap if you totally ignore the irrelevant links that are sent to you. Even if the link seems valid do not click it. It is better to visit the website using your search engine.
3. Using the Security Software
Make sure that your computers have an updated security software. Make sure that you have an anti-spyware, a firewall and an anti-virus so that all the personal information is safe and secure. It will make it difficult for anyone to hack into your system and steal the files. You need to install the security patches so you can keep the operating system secure and it will provide ID theft protection.
4. Be Careful about Using Wi-Fi
It is important to be careful when using a public wireless network to send sensitive information. You can get a Wi-Fi connection at the airport, hotel, library, etc. but you have to see that the information you are sharing is protected. Using a secure wireless connection is important because it ensures that all the information you are sending or receiving is reliable. Using the encrypted website will only keep the information you share through the site secure.
5. Do not Forget to Lock your Laptops
You need to make sure that you have a username or password to log into your account which is hard to guess. It is the only way of keeping the information secure. When you are not using the computer, you should not leave it in the standby mode because it will allow other people to access the information. Always make sure that you log off when you are not using the computer so that no one cannot steal your personal information.
6. Be Smart about Making Purchase on any Website
Online shopping is becoming popular as it saves time and offers more variety. But it is important that you choose a site which has a good reputation because while shopping you will have to share personal information such as credit card information. Make sure that the site is safe and legitimate before sharing your financial information.
7. Do Not be Careless While Downloading Apps
If you by mistake download any malicious apps then they will corrupt your phone. This can make it vulnerable which will make it easier for people to steal your information. They can be dangerous for your personal information because they do not encrypt the sensitive information and it makes it easy to access it. Before you download any app make sure that you check out the reviews about its security features. Never forget to read the privacy policies. If you read it, you will know how much information you are sharing.
To make sure that your computers and smartphones are secure and your information perfectly safe you need to pay attention to little things like passwords etc. You also need to stay alert and be on the lookout for any signs of identity theft such as missing bills, denial of credit approval, getting notices about due bills, etc.
Featured photo credit: Guiding Tech via beta.noroeste.com.mx