Although the online world has become our natural environment, we might still feel lost in it sometimes. For example, it is easy to feel confused by all these sites, logins, passwords, platforms, data requests, etc. That's why we decided to prepare a kind of a guide for every internet user.

By reading this article, you will know how to stay safe online, what you can do to reduce the risk of falling for a scam, and how to protect yourself from online dangers. We’ve split our content into 5 short practical paragraphs so that you can read them all or quickly scroll down to the issue that most interests you.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

1. PASSWORDS

Protect yourself with a strong password. Although it may be tempting, don't set simple passwords, especially those containing your personal information. Your name is something too easy to break by potential hackers. Also, sensitive data, such as your address, date of birth, telephone number, or driving license number are all not the safest password ideas. Instead of a too-simple or related to you password, use random signs like 'lk$kbK8W@mk*2&'. This kind of password is called a passphrase. Passphrases are much more reliable, harder to break, and safer than regular words. Of course, passphrases seem much harder to remember, but fortunately, an amazing tool like Password Manager exists. Password Manager keeps your logins and passwords safe and… managed. Using it, you will never lose any of your passwords. The last thing to remember about using password Manager is to update your password regularly. It's crucial, especially for the sites, platforms, and apps you use regularly, such as mailboxes or online bank accounts. By changing passwords often, you protect yourself from scammers more effectively than if you didn’t.

2. TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION

Sometimes, a strong password is not enough. When your online resources need special protection, use two-factor authentication. You may know about this kind of protection from social media profiles or apps related to money or payment systems. Two-factor authentication means an extra layer above a regular password. So after you enter your password, you use something to confirm your identity, like a fingerprint, face recognition, or a unique code sent to your phone.

3. MONEY

We can all agree that money is something we wouldn't like to lose by using the internet recklessly or irresponsibly. Fortunately, a few simple rules can help you to manage your online finances safely. First, properly protect your online bank account or payment app. If you're in doubt, start with a safe password and two-factor authentication, both of which are mentioned above. The next step is to use your money wisely. How? It's not that complicated. Pay using an app instead of a card while shopping online. If you don't or can't use an app while paying, use a credit card rather than a debit card. Credit cards are much safer



Don't provide your financial information if it's not necessary, but when it is, be sure that the site is safe - the easiest way to check the page’s safety is to look at the prefix in the URL.  A “safe site address” should always start with “https”. Of course, not every one of these “https” sites will keep your money 100% secure because scammers can be incredibly creative and innovative. That's why, even when you act cautiously, stay alert and monitor your credit card statements. Keep an eye on your bank account. This will all help you verify whether your money is safe after you’re done online shopping.


4. DEVICES


Advanced devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and laptops not only replaced our wallets or even safes in many instances but also became the command centers of our lives. So it's hard to imagine how devastating it would be to lose them. Ensure your devices’ safety by locking them with passwords or other security options like face scanning or fingerprint readers. And, what is also very important, learn how to use the "find my device" tool. It helps you block and finds your device when it’s been lost or stolen.


5. SAFE CONNECTIONS


Sometimes, even if you are the most aware and responsible internet user, you may get in trouble. How is this possible, you may think, if your devices are safe, your password is secure, and you’re acting safely? Well, there is always something outside. That's why smart developers invented firewalls. A firewall is a network security system to monitor your traffic and block insecure connections. The best metaphor to understand the firewall concept is “a fence around a house,” which protects it from outside threats like thieves, uninvited guests, or wild animals. The firewall is like a virtual fence that protects you from dangerous connections.

The next level of this type of protection is a VPN, which stands for Virtual Private Network. A VPN masks your online identity by providing encrypted servers and hiding your IP address from hackers, greedy companies, or nosy organizations. Use a VPN whenever you’re connected via public WiFi or need an extra safe connection. A VPN will successfully hide your traffic and make you safe online.


Congrats, you did it! You just got through the crucial points of online safety. It looks like you really care about yourself. And you probably deserve a reward! All the advice given above is essential, but there are other things worth mentioning, like, online shopping, updates, antivirus software, or social media - you’ll find those topics in our free online safety ebook. 


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Altroo Team