With the world becoming extremely dependent on devices and electronics, cybercrime is a real threat and danger. It may sound far-fetched or impossible but cybercrime is rampant and can cause serious damage. Cybercrime is not just hackers stealing your financial information. It can include stalking, harassment, identity theft, access to personal data, breach of privacy, stealing your private information, and financial theft.
Cyber Crime is any crime that takes place online or on the internet. Terrorism, child abuse, sexual exploitation, pedophilia, and harassment are severe types of cyber crimes. What can one do to ensure their safety and security? Stopping use of all digital devices is impossible. To prevent cyber crimes, you need to follow some tips and techniques. These 10 essential cyber crime prevention tips will protect you and your family from any unwanted attacks or attention.
Strong Passwords- This seems like a simple and basic step but many people don’t follow this. Use strong and different passwords for each site or email. Change them on a regular basis. Using things like birthdays or names is not advised or recommended. You can even store your passwords in a password storage site if you keep forgetting them. Strong passwords will ensure your account doesn’t get hacked or attacked.
Use Virus Protection- Even if you use the internet for basic things like surfing and checking emails, you should be protected. Having an internet security suite or software that protects you from viruses and malware will help with that. You can find free or paid basic, premium, or customized security software suites depending on your needs and devices. Activate your firewall, as your firewall is the first line of cyber defense. They block connections to harmful sites and keep out malware or hackers.
Protect your Data- Apps and devices have access to private and personal information. Ensure that your information and data is protected. Keep backups of important data and files so they can’t be damaged or hacked. You can even encrypt files that contain sensitive data. Using a VPN will lend you anonymity and security which protects your data from prying eyes.
Identify Threats and Scams- Many of us become victims of cybercrimes as we can’t identify threats or phishing scams. Before you click to open an unknown email or link, double-check the sender. If it is from your bank or financial institution, a call or message will confirm the reality. Banks or financial institutions will not send warnings or notices via email. They prefer post or calling personally to avoid cybercrime. Teach your family members, especially kids to identify threats and scams. Don’t open strange emails, links, or messages. Block access to strangers if you are posting sensitive content.
Monitor Kids- Allowing kids access to electronic devices, emails, and apps comes with a whole set of risks. Hackers tend to target kids because they are easy to fool and are naive. Inform your kids about the dangers of sharing information on the internet. Monitor their usage and limit their interaction. Pedophilia, child abuse, and harassment is a real and increasing threat on the internet. Child abusers even create fake profiles on gaming sites or apps to meet and find kids.
Strengthen Your Network- Using a VPN even at home is a simple but great way of strengthening your network. A VPN will encrypt all your traffic leaving the devices until it arrives at its destination. Even if you do get hacked, there will be nothing to see as your data will be encrypted. Use a VPN for public networks such as hotels, airports, or cafes to protect your information and details from breaches.
Educate Yourself- Read and research about the cyber crime laws and regulations in your countries. Understand what constitutes cyber crimes and what different kinds are there. Once you know what to look for, you won’t fall for scams or scares. Remain updated on security networks on all apps and websites you frequent. If you receive an email informing you that the website has been hacked, change your password immediately.
Know the Law- If you do fall victim to cybercrime, know what the next steps are. Study the law so you can figure out how to find a solution. File the necessary complaint or report and wait for the authorities to get in touch with you. Different countries have different laws but they have all special cybercrime units dedicated to solving cybercrime. They take grievances seriously and offer assistance to victims and support in the desired manner. Contact any card companies or your employers if identity theft or financial theft occurs.
Protect your Identity- Don’t share your personal address, number, or location on the internet. Stalkers and harassers use apps and websites to track victims and threaten or harass them. Sharing your personal address on a public space can mean intrusion of privacy and a threat to you and your family. If you work with a company, inform them about leaving your personal information out of the cyber domain.
Secure Your Mobile- Your mobile is as vulnerable to cyber threats as your laptop. Monitor the settings and permissions of various apps on your phone. Switch off geotagging or location if you don’t want to share that information. Many apps constantly share your location even when you aren’t using that particular app. That is a breach of privacy so change the privacy settings to avoid this.
