Everyone dreads the moment when he or she realizes that their information has been compromised. It is a moment of vulnerability where you feel exposed, taken advantage of, and lost to wonder what the possible fallout may be.
Though we cannot plan for that moment of getting hacked, we can evaluate our lives and look for simple things that we do every day, even without realizing it, that put us at risk. What are some common mistakes that everyday people make that put them at risk?
- Accessing Personal and Financial Data on Public WiFi- Everyone loves the free WiFi at Starbucks, but who could access your information while your favorite barista is making your Peppermint Latte? When on public WiFi, it is safe to assume that others can access your device. Make sure anything you are viewing on public WiFi is not personal data.
- Keeping Apps Open- Endless apps running in the background of your smartphone are not just a good tool for battery drain. These apps running in the background could be pulling location services and other personal data. The best advice is to close it unless you are using it. Your phone's battery will thank you, and you will be more secure.
- Downloading Questionable Apps- The endless apps on the internet lead to lots of options, but sometimes the apps that we see online are not what they claim to be. Since no one is nerdy enough to read the endless agreements you sign when downloading an app, it is important to select apps that have been vetted by others. Make sure the app is coming from a reliable app store or has reviews or recommendations online.
- Not Having a Password- Passwords slow down everything. In our instant society, it is easy to not set a password, but passwords are there to guard you and your data. Make sure and use unique passwords for each site and app you use. And by the way, the word "password" as your password is an easy one to guess.
- Clicking Every Link and Attachment- Though your email may look like it comes from a friend, family member, or Amazon, it may not be. Scammers are constantly sending emails with attachments and links that will compromise your computer and your data. Make sure and think before you click.
As we all try to avoid the horrible moment of being hacked, being proactive is the best way to defend yourself and guard your data. If you would like to explore some other proactive steps such as antivirus software and WiFi security, contact Reliant Media today.