We guess none of us wake up excited to analyze our various online accounts and tighten up security protocols. Riveting it is not. But turning a blind eye to your vulnerable digital footprint leads to some seriously scary identity theft situations.
No need to go full Jason Bourne just yet, though! Start simple by incorporating some practical safety checks into your regular routine using easy-to-access tools already at your fingertips. Bit by bit, you’ll build better protective habits without overwhelming yourself.
Tidy Up Your Passwords
This first one might be a slog at first, but it’s SO worth it in the long term for peace of mind. Comb through all your current passwords and delete outdated ones, consolidate duplicates, and strengthen vulnerable ones.
The longer and more random, the better for ensuring hacker-proof codes no one can guess. Think of 12-15 random characters with upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. We know it’s super annoying to remember. So grab a password manager app to securely store them for you instead! Many free and low-cost options are available; just be sure to select one with solid safety features.
Also, deactivate accounts entirely if there are old sites or services you definitively no longer use. Reduce the risk of forgotten logins lingering out there for the taking. Out of sight, out of mind!
Oh, and for the love of Pete, don’t use “123456” or “password” anywhere anymore. Please and thank you!
Find Some Friends
Nope, not looking for pen pals here! Add in multi-factor authentication on important logins when available. It typically means after entering a username and password, an additional temporary code gets texted or emailed to confirm it’s really you.
It seems inconvenient, but it is important to confirm your identity if someone happens to sneak your credentials somehow. It often only takes an extra click, so it is not too intrusive in the grand scheme. Many popular sites like banking, email, and social media allow setup if you poke around account settings.
Break Up With Unsecured WiFi
Look, we’ve all done it. Hopped on random open networks at a hotel, cafe, or airport without thinking twice. Unfortunately, connecting to public WiFi makes you highly vulnerable to savvy lurkers who spy on your browsing.
You can invest in a personal VPN to encrypt transmissions to and from your devices no matter what network you use. Prices and features vary widely, so read up on different providers to find one that suits your typical usage. Many offer free trial periods.
When you can’t avoid open networks, at minimum, avoid accessing anything with financial, medical, or other sensitive personal info if possible. Every extra layer of protection counts!
Phone It In
Take inventory of authorized apps across mobile devices and update permissions if they seem out of place. Why does that weather app need access to my contacts again?
Also, turn on automatic software updates on devices. Convenient way for security patches and improvements to load without you having to constantly manually check. One less thing for you!
And consider using a temp phone number for extra verification steps. The top way to avoid exposing your primary number in the event of a future breach.
Back That Stuff Up
Should something catastrophic like device theft or ransomware attack strike, you’ll breathe easier knowing vital data lives securely in multiple spots. Sign up for an offline encrypted external drive backup and/or reputable cloud-based backup service.
Set it and forget it automated systems help overcome our flawed human memories. Disaster prep gives solid peace of mind since a common regret people report is not backing up photos before losing that laptop for good. Don’t wait til it’s too late!
Update Online Profiles
When’s the last time you checked settings for the “big three” – Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram? Revisit them now with security eyes, turning on any additional privacy protections if appropriate.
Small snooze features also limit endless scrolling, irresistible though it may be!
For other platforms not actively in use, either max out security if staying logged in or delete/deactivate if ready to cut ties. Reduce chances of neglected stale accounts causing future trouble.
On sites requiring confirmed identity, examine profile photos or descriptions that indicate personal details like hometown or family members. Scale back anything publicly viewable that burglars or scammers could leverage in social engineering schemes.
Relax Those Shoulders!
It’s admittedly a whole lot of suggestions, we know! But implementing just a few at a time goes far in covering your overall security bases.
No need to overhaul everything this very second. Start with foundational steps that strengthen login credentials and backup systems. Then, gradually layer on extra protections to fit your comfort level and risk factors.
You should stay informed on best practices, but don’t drive yourself nuts endlessly ping-ponging between dozens of accounts. Security with sanity, folks.