In this new time of working from home and ordering everything online, we really need to make a conscious effort to protect ourselves from cybercriminals. There are specific measures we can take to protect our computers and devices from intruders. But sometimes, a little knowledge and awareness go a long way. Here is how to protect yourself from cybercrime.
What is cybercrime?
Before we get into how to protect yourself, let us start with some simple definitions. Cybercrime is any type of illegal activity that takes place online. Cybercriminals commit these crimes by targeting computer or device networks. The crimes can range from email password hacking to identity theft, resulting in stealing money or sensitive financial information. Cybercrime can also include things like cyber-stalking, harassment, and online bullying.
How do I protect myself from cybercrime?
There are several different things you can do to protect yourself from cybercrime. Our top recommendations include:
- Use a full-service internet security program. Professional software that provides internet security protection can give you peace of mind while you are spending extra time online. It protects against malware, ransomware, and viruses while protecting your financial info when you shop or complete baking transactions online.
- Use strong passwords. This may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised how careless some people can be with their online passwords. Do not use the same password for multiple sites. Make your password at least ten characters long and always use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Manage your social media account settings. There are probably more security settings on your social media accounts than you realize. Ensure you are keeping your personal and private info out of the wrong hands by limiting what you share publicly.
- Strengthen your home network. Use a strong encryption password and a VPN.
By having a little cybercrime awareness, you can help protect you and your family’s personal and private info online.