Most people these days have data that they want to keep secure. “Data” could mean anything from passwords to credit card information. However, there are many ways to keep your information secure online. Here are a few of them.
Use a Password Manager & Strong Passwords
One way to keep your data secure is to use a password manager. We recommend using 1Password. Their service is subscription-based so if you don’t want to lock yourself into something like that, our second choice would be Enpass, which offers a lifetime license to their service. These are programs that will keep all of your passwords – as well as other important information – locked away and safe. Along with the password manager should come strong passwords. This means that your password should be at least 8 to 16 characters long or more and include a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Use a Firewall
You can also keep your data safe by using a firewall. This is a program that will help to protect your computer from hackers. We suggest turning on the default firewall in macOS via the System settings menus under security or using something like Little Snitch.
Use Anti-Virus Software
You can also keep your information and systems safe by using anti-virus software. This software will help to protect your computer from malware and other viruses. My choice right now has to be Malwarebytes. It’s affordable and seems to just work with minimal setup and very low maintenance from the user. There are plenty of other antivirus programs on the market. Just make sure you find one that works for you and does not eat up too many system resources.
Use a VPN
When using public wifi spots don’t forget to use a VPN. We recommend using Mullvad or IVPN. Using a virtual private network when you are working in public settings is the best way to secure yourself and your digital data. A VPN works by creating anonymity for its user while they are using the internet. There are many different options available and some of them are more secure than others. Mac Sources is dedicated to finding the best options that suit different types of needs. Mullvad and IVPN are solid options for most types of users.
Don’t Overshare Personal Information
Finally, you can keep your data safe by being careful with what you share online. Never share your passwords or credit card information with anyone. And be careful about the websites that you visit. Only visit websites that you trust and make sure to use anti-virus software when you do.
You also want to watch out for Facebook-style games designed to trick you into providing hackers with your secret information. These ‘games’ are designed to trick you into providing information that you might use in security questions or passwords. I have seen lots of these posted. They ask simple questions like, “What was your favorite food growing up?” or “Who was your best friend in middle school?” These bits of information are potential answers to things like security questions or even potential clues to what your password might be. You are tricked into answering fun questions and publicly sharing them online. Then, you ask your friends to play along and answer the same questions. These types of ‘games’ are a treasure trove for hackers.
Don’t forget to create a backup
Don’t forget to backup your data. Securing your online presence doesn’t keep you from a hard drive failure. In this scenario, you would be right back at the beginning and have to start over. So using an offsite backup solution along with any on-site backups you might have is the best method. We recommend using a service like Backblaze for offsite backups. Buying a NAS – like this one from Synology – is a great way to keep your most important photos and documents secure and backed up onsite is also a must.
One-time Use Credit Cards
When shopping online, we also suggest using a service like Privacy.com to create one-time use credit cards. It’s a free service that will let you generate a one-time use credit card that can’t ever be used again. This helps keeps your financial information safe when shopping online.
Data insecurity is a real threat to both individuals and businesses. Here are four ways to protect your data as a recap.
- Use strong passwords: Many people use weak passwords and easily guessed words like “password” or “123456”. These are easy to hack. Use strong passwords that are at least 8 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Keep your software updated: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities. Make sure you install these updates as soon as they’re available. That includes each time iOS sends out an update is available.
- Use a firewall and VPN: A firewall helps protect your computer from unauthorized access. It can also prevent hackers from stealing your data. A VPN will protect you from data being sniffed by unwanted hackers by using a network tunnel. Always make sure you trust the VPN provider you are using. The two we listed above we have found to be the most secure and safe to use.
- Use an antivirus program: An antivirus program can protect your computer from malware and other viruses. It can also help protect your data from being stolen.
- Backup your data: Make sure to take advantage of services for offsite backups or have a system in place at home to securely back up your data like Time Machine.
Conclusion
A few simple steps can help keep your data secure. Use World Password Day as a reminder to change all of your online passwords. Use strong passwords, update software regularly, don’t open unfamiliar attachments, be mindful of public Wi-Fi networks and use a VPN when on them. Following these tips will help you keep your information safe and secure.