Install a Home Security System for Peace of Mind

It's Not Safe Out There: 3 Steps To Increase Your Online Security

29 July 2016 by Edward Smythe

Every time you access the internet, you put your identity in jeopardy. Hackers are constantly surfing the net looking for susceptible connections. If you're not utilizing proper security measures, you could end up having your identity stolen. Here are three steps you can take that will protect your identity and your finances.

Protect Yourself Against Website Attacks

When it comes to your online accounts, you need to do more than just worry about your password. You also have to worry about the websites that you access.

Passwords

You might think that your password is good enough to protect your online accounts. Unfortunately, professional hackers can find a way around most passwords. This is particularly true if you use the same password for all of your accounts. To protect your online accounts, you should use different passwords for each account.

Multi-Step Authentication

Online transactions make life much easier. You can shop, do your banking and even pay your bills without ever leaving your home. However, not every website you visit is going to be safe. Before you sign up for online accounts, be sure that the website has multi-step authentication. This type of authentication will require you to input a password, as well as a secondary step such as a secret question.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi

Hot spots and free public Wi-Fi are a great way to access the internet when you're away from home. Unfortunately, they can also be an easy way for hackers to gain access to your accounts. Instead of accessing public hotspots, use your own cellphone connection to access the internet. To protect your own wireless Wi-Fi, make sure you reset the factory password on your home wireless router. This will ensure that your internet accounts are safe whether you're at home, or away.

Say Yes to Updates

If you bypass automatic updates for your computer programs, you might be setting yourself up for a security breach. Most systems install updates to protect against outdated codes or other security threats. To protect your online identity, make sure you approve all recommended program updates for your computer. Updates are particularly important for your online security programs. If you haven't updated your system recently, you need to take care of that as soon as possible.

Each time you access online accounts, you put yourself at risk for security breaches. Hackers surf the net looking for vulnerable accounts. The information provided here will help you protect your identity while you're online. A data center identity protection company can provide more information.

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