How Can You Stay Safe Online?

April 16, 2022 By Eddie Nobles Business

Types of Online Cybersecurity Threats

Malware

Spyware Threats

Hackers and Predators

Phishing

How to protect your devices from malware

Some simple rules to reduce risk

Users are told to stay safe online from the day they begin using the internet. Children are warned from an early age not to speak to strangers, and parents are required to keep an eye out. Even when we grow older, we are required to be alert and wary of the numerous threats that we can fall victim to at any time. To help clear the air, we have listed some of the threats you are bound to face online and tips to stay safe.

Types of Online Cybersecurity Threats

There’s more than just one type of threat you will face online. Some of the creative ways that hackers and scammers can target you are listed below.

Malware

One of the most commonly known threats in computers is software and files that are downloaded onto your computer through a network that has the ability to steal, infect, or do anything that the attacker wants. A computer virus is a specific type of malware meant to cause issues in your device and alter operations without the user’s knowledge. There are other threats out there too, such as worms, adware, and ransomware to name a few.

If you want to avoid viruses on your computer, be mindful of the type of files you download and the websites from where you download them. You can make use of the security settings in your browser to warn you about any corrupted or suspicious downloads. You can also install updated anti-virus software that can detect any viruses on your system before they do any harm.

Spyware Threats

Another security threat that can monitor your activities online and even install programs on your device without consent is known as spyware. As the name suggests, the threat allows the scammer to spy on your device.

One of the ways you can ensure that this isn’t happening to you is if you read the terms and conditions, you can learn if the software may be tracking you. Avoid clicking on links that you find suspicious, and stay alert when browsing the internet.

Hackers and Predators

You need to remember that there are people behind the screens, responsible for creating cyber threats that attack your device. Hackers are simply programmers who like to victimize unsuspecting users into giving away personal and sensitive information. If you are not careful, you could end up sharing credit card details with strangers and or lose access to your data. You can download online security tools to protect yourself from cyber threats.

Phishing

One of the most common ways cybercriminals could target users is by trying to steal your financial information by sending you fraudulent messages and emails. These attacks are very effective as many users mistake the emails to be genuine and end up sharing sensitive details.

How to Protect Your Devices From Malware

It is very easy to protect yourself from malware if you follow the following tips and rules.

Make sure that you have installed an updated anti-virus software from a reputable company onto your devices—even your phone and tablet. Make sure to update your software regularly.
Firewalls are network security system that monitors incoming and outgoing traffic. With the help of firewalls, you can protect your sensitive data from being infected or stolen.
Enable your browser security settings so that you can get warnings when you visit suspicious websites.
Remember to protect your profiles and devices with strong passwords.
Avoid using public networks when you are outside. And if you have to use a public network, avoid logging into your bank accounts and other personal profiles.
If you get emails that have attachments, keep your guard up. Don’t open any links in emails from unknown users, and avoid downloading any files.
If you are downloading files online, make sure you do so from a trusted website. Otherwise, you may risk downloading malware onto your device.

Some Simple Rules to Reduce Risk

An internet connection is no longer a luxury in any household. We all need a high-speed AT&T internet connectionthat you can find by browsing through AT&T bundles. But once you do start surfing the internet, you need to take some steps to stay safe.

Check that the emails your open are received from trusted contacts. Scammers can make emails look genuine and convince users to give away their personal information.
Check if the website has HTTPS at the beginning of the address, which indicates that the website is secure.
Avoid responding to messages from strangers on any social media app, email, or messaging platform.
Avoid sharing your details on social media apps, as they can be collected and used to steal your identity.
Create strong passwords for all your profiles and change them regularly. Don’t use the same password for all your accounts.