6 Ways You Can Protect Your Digital Privacy

These days many people around the globe already have access to the internet and some digital technologies. Many find today’s technologies helpful, especially during this pandemic, since it makes it easier for us to connect with our families, friends, customers, and the world.

It is true that techs are now a big part of our lives, but it does not mean that we should let our guard down. As said by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), “Your devices make it easy to connect to the world around you, but they can also pack a lot of info about you and your friends and family.”

Our personal information and privacy are important, thus we should protect it. Here are 6 ways on how we can protect our digital privacy from phishing scams and identity theft.

6 Ways You Can Protect Your Digital Privacy

Secure Your Devices

• Lock your device with strong:
  • Passphrases
  • Passcodes
  • Touch ID features
• Doing so can help you protect your information if your devices ever get lost or stolen

Protect Your Personal Data

• Information about you is valuable. These may be:
  • The games you like to play
  • Your contacts list
  • Where you shop
  • And even your location
• Be thoughtful about these things:
  • Who gets that information?
  • And how it is collected through apps

Disable WiFi and Bluetooth

• Disable WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use
• Some stores and other locations look for devices with WiFi or Bluetooth turned on to track your movements while you are within range

Be Sharp with WiFi Hotspots

• Public wireless networks and hotspots are not secure
• Meaning, anyone could potentially see what you are doing on your mobile device while you are connected
• Limit what you do on public WiFi
• Avoid logging in to key accounts like email and financial services
• Consider using:
  • A virtual private network (VPN)
  • A personal/mobile hotspot

Update Your Phone and Apps

• Up-to-date security software, web browser, operating system and apps are the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats

Delete Stagnant Apps

• Delete all apps you no longer use. It is a good security practice.

 

Source: Stay Safe Online| National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA)