“How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Crime”

A cyberattack is nothing but a computer-oriented crime. That either targets or uses a computer, a computer network, or a networked device. Most, but not all, cyber attack is committed by cybercriminals or hackers who want to make money. cyber attack is carried out by individuals or organizations.

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Cybercrime is an ongoing threat, it’s increasing more & more. Now the question is can we completely protect ourselves from cybercrime?  No, you can’t even no one can prevent all kinds of theft. But by taking some precautions we can avoid basic risks.

We’ve tried to come up with a few basic steps, which will help you to be a step ahead from cyber attack-

First thing first, Use a Proper strong Password

Protecting credentials is the most effective way to reduce the chance of a cyber-attack. And contain the damage if an attack occurs. Your passwords should be at least eight characters; include the combination of numbers, letters, and symbols. And it shouldn’t be your name or related to you.

For example if your Name is Chris, then don’t keep your password like CHRIS, CHRIS123, [email protected] etc.

Instead try something like ‘[email protected]’ which will not be easy or even possible with your name, DOB, birthplace, etc.

Always remember, it is your responsibility to protect your social media accounts. And try to change your passwords regularly. If you want, you can use a good password manager for your social media accounts. By using that you just need to remember one good strong password.

For work-related passwords, make sure you take advantage of enterprise tools your IT team puts in place to store and manage passwords.

    *Don’t allow others to access your password-protected sites without you being present. Always keep your password to yourself.

Keep your software and operating system updated

Companies always work on the loopholes and provide you the update. This ensures that you benefit from the latest security patches to protect your devices.

*If possible when you aren’t using your computer webcam then cover it.

Never open attachments in spam emails

This is the basics for any hackers out there. They send you an email with the name of a site, you may have visited before.

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Don’t click on the Pop-Ups

If an e-mail or website suddenly shows any pop-up window. And ask you to enter your username or password, don’t do it. Instead, open your browser and go to the site directly.

Try not to store your passwords in browser

May be by saving credentials in your browser it becomes easier & faster to use. But they are well known paths to steal easily.

*If still, you’re using your browser to save your passwords. At least avoid those sites like banks, Facebook where you have the crucial information that can damage you so badly if those get hacked.

Be careful on public Wi-Fi

There is a chance that someone is monitoring your data over public Wi-Fi. Don’t access your sensitive data like financial information over public Wi-Fi. Don’t change your passwords, and beware of entering credentials while using public Wi-Fi.

If possible try to use Public Wi-Fi with a VPN (Virtual Protocol Network). You can simply use public Wi-Fi for YouTube or to scroll apps, reading news, etc.

If you don’t have a good VPN then while accessing sensitive data try to use your mobile cellular network.

*Don’t select to remember the Wi-Fi network. Recent research said if we aren’t selecting to remember the network then we are saving our device to launch a spam or malware attack.

Think before you click

Was I expecting to receive this? Do I know the person who is sending it? The person who sends you the link has he/she checked themselves? If the answer is ‘NO’ then don’t click any links that you get even from social media.

 We’re in the era of clicks. And if you click any malicious links, it can land you on a fraudulent or any compromised website.

    *If you want for safety purposes use a good Anti-virus. Antivirus provides a way to protect against known threats. Although it can’t save you from all kinds of thefts, so you shouldn’t depend on it completely.

Always keep an eye on your bank statements. If you see any unfamiliar transaction immediately inform your bank. Never ever share your One Time Passwords (OTPs) with anyone even if the bank calls you.

FAQs