Internet today has made all of us able to access a lot more information and resources than any other generation before. Everyone is working on being tech-savvy, be it your kids, parents, or grandparents. It is what empowers and enriches us with a vast knowledge of anything we would like to know good or bad. Every day we have IT professionals coming up with more games, applications, programs and systems that help make our lives easier and make our online experiences more fun. On the other hand, as the internet potential continues to increase, the online crooks also continue to work hard on their skill.
It does not matter what experience on tech savviness you have, the potential to fall victims of cyber-attacks is high now than ever before. Cyber-attacks are getting more sophisticated with the increased and popular use of the internet. Unsafe surfing of the internet has led to the downfall of many carriers, families, companies, friendships, and so many forms of human relationships and interactions. This has created an increased demand in knowing the Internet Safety Rules you need to comply with so as to ensure your online safety and also the safety of your loved ones.
Top 7 Internet Safety Rules
- Ensure your home Wi-Fi Network is secured
Your entire family uses your home Wi-Fi network to access the internet. This means that the devices (mobile phones, computers, and laptops) are at risk of virus infections and hackers. Anyone including your kids can access the internet as long as they are in your residence and you cannot always keep an eye on them. If you have an open Wi-Fi Network, anyone can access your bandwidth. This makes you an easy target for cybercriminals who might send malware to your PCs and infect your entire household system. Use strong passwords for your Wi-Fi network as they cannot be easily cracked.
- Create an Awareness of Internet Safety Rules in your Household.
Cybersecurity is one of the most dynamic subjects. Things change constantly and as this happens you also need to keep yourself updated or risk being a prey. Teach your kids, parents and anyone else in your household on safe surfing, Internet Safety Rules, and encourage them to always inform you if anything looks suspicious to them. Install security software apps and warm them against clicking wrong links. It is essential for them to know about cyberbullying, stalkers and predators so that they will use less personal information online as they are some of the weakest links cybercriminals use.
- Always use safe, strong passwords
Passwords form the best weak spots commonly used by hackers to get into your online systems compromising your online safety. Most of the passwords chosen are from what we can easily remember, therefore, making it simple for the hackers to crack. Invest in a password management system that will help you have passwords that are not easily demystified.
- Use safe secure sites for online shopping
Credit card details and bank details are what lures most cybercriminals to any sites. With the increased popularity of online purchases, it is only wise to be aware that one should only shop in secure, encrypted sites for maximum online safety. Only make transactions on sites that begin with https the ‘S’ stands for security. It is also safer to use credit cards rather than debit cards as they are insured.
- Install Anti-viruses and programs from trusted sources and Constantly update them
The temptation to download free movies, music, games and apps are usually at an all-time high. This may contain malware or spyware that endangers your internet security. It is wise to come up with a list of trusted download sources and have that list adhered to. Read the privacy settings and license agreement to know how they intend to use your personal information. Always be careful of what you download. An anti-virus will help protect your system from viruses or malicious malware. Constant update to all your programs is required to get rid of weak links.
- Keep Personal Details off your Social Media Sites
Nowadays social sites have features that constantly encourage us to hand over our physical location to millions of people online. Inform your household the importance of keeping their personal details (physical address, street location, car license number etc.) personal.
- Enable Privacy Settings
Both marketers and hackers would love to know a lot of details about you. You have the power of the information you hand to both of them. They can both track your interests from your browsing and social media use. The best thing you can do is to keep your privacy safeguards on whenever you go online. This protects you from anyone who wants to track your online activity and gives you privacy online. The most important thing to do is to enlighten your kids and anyone in your home of Internet Safety rules for their online safety. Also, constantly make them aware of cyber-attacks so they are always online conscious.
