Identity thefts, virus and online scams are just the tips of the iceberg. But with the following tips, your internet browsing won’t hit a glitch and you will be able to browse safely and effectively.
1. Secured computer equals secured browsing experience
Trivial as it may sound, threats generally attack the computers which have no ‘strongholds.’ In Cyber science, the strongholds are anti-virus, updated operating systems and working hardwares. Therefore, your computer should be provided with all these safeguards.
2. The browser should be fast and minimal
As Internet Explorer is notoriously famous for its distended architecture, sluggish loading time, and insecure environment, it is always expedient to install and make FireFox as your browser.
3. Adds-on amplifies the security
Several attachable add-ons are available, which function to protect your data and identities during the browsing time. It will be quite beneficial to install some of my favourites add-ons like FlashBlock, LastPass and Web of trust.
4. Raise up the computer security standards
Normally, the computer becomes prone to the attacks due to the laxity in the security settings. Unraised firewalls and the absence of security software will bring chaos to your browsing experience. By adjusting security settings, your browser aptly responds to potential and annoying threats like pop-ups, malicious add-ons and spyware.
5. Scan files before downloading
It is a healthy habit to download only the content which you believe is secure. In case of a doubt, you are advised to scan the file with the antivirus software.
6. Be wary of phishing
Phishing is a malicious attempt, often done by masquerading as harmless, friendly internet entities (like banks, social media sites, shopping and traveling sites, payment sites) to acquire important information (usernames, passwords, credit card details etc.) You can avoid being victimized by such sites by not clicking on the links attached to the received emails, and by ignoring unasked-for mails.
7. Secure Online Presence by Ditching Surveillance
It’s been long since the Internet service providers are logging and maintain the records of online activities of their users. It assists them in tracking the bandwidth and the speed provided to their clientele. No matter how much you desire to restrict these eavesdroppers from infiltrating your anonymity and prevent unwelcome surveillance, it cannot be done. At least not without a suitable VPN software. VPN mitigates the chances of sniffing whether you’re a connected to public Wi-Fi, or you are willing to securely connect with a torrenting client under its encrypted tunnel. When you do shopping online, it is an expert advice to shop from an SSL secured website with ‘https’ plus a padlock button left or right of the address bar. A counterfeit site may have poor graphics, misspellings, and bad grammar. These should serve as a warning to any off-the-guard, novice users.
8. The password should be variable, kickass, uncrackable and unassociated.
Cyber criminals can easily prey on usual, relatable and simple passwords. It is time to do away with associating yourself to the password. No more Superman123. It is time for THOU $H@nT bRE@KETH fOTHERmUcKER.
9. Internet users should be on the guard
Attacks are more frequented to the unwary users and the appliances of internet connectivity left in neglect. Attackers come in disguise in a pubic network or WiFi. Therefore, it is best to avoid using public platforms or use the sessions in such public domains in incognito mode. Additionally, the router default settings should be changed and the connection should be password-protected.
10. Caution to the conveniences
Auto fill up forms and ‘remember your password’ features increase your indolence. But you may have to regret that moment as some websites use unseen field to remove your information from the forms. There are still chances that this may be used by cybercriminals to hijack your browsing session and extract sensitive information to use against you. Featured photo credit: myapplegadgets.com via cdn1.myapplegadgets.com
