It’s hard to go a few days without hearing about a major data breach that exposes millions of people’s personal information. While you can’t control every risk, there are steps you can take to keep your private data safe from cybercriminals.
1. Create Strong Passwords
When creating passwords, avoid using personal details that are easy to guess, like your name or birthday.
Use a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Change your passwords periodically and use unique passwords for each account.
A password manager can help you store and organize them securely.
2. Don’t Overshare on Social Media
Be mindful of how much personal information you share online.
Avoid posting your exact location, hometown, birthday, or other identifying details publicly.
Review your privacy settings regularly to control who can view your content and personal data.
3. Use Public Wi-Fi with Caution
Free public Wi-Fi networks often lack security protections, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data.
Avoid entering credit card numbers or logging into sensitive accounts when using public Wi-Fi.
If you must connect, use a trusted virtual private network (VPN) for added protection.
4. Watch Out for Suspicious Links and Attachments
Phishing scams are designed to trick you into revealing personal information.
Be wary of emails or texts that urge immediate action, include spelling errors, or come from unfamiliar senders.
Never click links or download attachments unless you’re certain the source is legitimate.
5. Check if a Website Is Secure
Before entering any personal or financial details online, check the browser’s address bar.
A secure website will display a lock symbol and begin with https:// instead of http://.
You can also look for a privacy policy, contact information, or trust seals to verify legitimacy.
6. Use Extra Layers of Protection
Install reputable antivirus and anti-spyware software, and enable your device’s firewall.
Keep your operating system, apps, and browsers updated to close security loopholes.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible for an added layer of defense.
By staying vigilant and following these best practices, you can greatly reduce your risk of identity theft, fraud, and data breaches — keeping your personal information where it belongs: safe and private.