So much of our daily life revolves around the internet, from work to education and even talking with friends. A 2021 survey found that the average US household had around 25 internet-connected devices, up from 11 in 2019. The more online accounts and devices you have, the greater the risk of cybercriminals causing harm. That’s why it’s more important than ever to understand internet safety rules that protect you and your family from online threats. Read on to find out about key internet dangers and ways to stay safe online.

Key Internet Dangers

When you and your family use the internet, you are often unknowingly exposing yourselves to a wide range of potential online threats. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to target internet users. Here are some of the biggest internet dangers to watch out for:

• Identity theft
• Data breaches
• Malware and viruses
• Phishing and scam emails
• Fake websites
• Online scams
• Inappropriate content
• Cyberbullying
• Faulty privacy settings

Essential Internet Safety Tips

To avoid these dangers, follow these essential internet safety tips:

1. Use a Secure Internet Connection

Using public Wi-Fi is sometimes unavoidable, but it can be risky. Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure, and using them for personal transactions, like online banking or shopping, can leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your data, keeping it safe from prying eyes. If you don’t have a VPN, save personal transactions for when you can use a trusted internet connection.

2. Choose Strong Passwords

Passwords are a major weak spot in cybersecurity. People often choose simple passwords that are easy to remember but also easy for hackers to guess. Using the same password for multiple sites increases your risk. If hackers get your password from one site, they can access other accounts with the same login details.

Create strong passwords that are:

• At least 12 characters long
• A mix of upper-case and lower-case letters, symbols, and numbers
• Not obvious (like “1234” or your pet’s name)

Consider using a password manager to help create and store strong passwords.

3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security. It requires two or more verification methods to access your online accounts. This could be:

• A one-time password sent to your phone or email
• Answers to security questions
• Fingerprint or facial recognition

Enabling MFA reduces the chances of a successful cyberattack.

4. Keep Software and Operating Systems Updated

Developers regularly release updates to fix security vulnerabilities. Using the latest versions of your operating systems and apps ensures you benefit from these security patches. This is especially important for apps containing sensitive information, like payment or health data.

5. Check Website Reliability

Before entering any personal information on a website, make sure it looks and feels reliable. Look for websites that start with “HTTPS” and have a padlock icon in the address bar. Reliable websites usually have well-written text, clear images, and use standard payment methods like credit cards or PayPal.

6. Review Privacy Settings

Take control of how much information third parties can access by reviewing your privacy settings. Social media sites, browsers, and mobile operating systems have settings to enhance your privacy. Make sure these settings are at a level you are comfortable with.

7. Be Cautious of Links and Downloads

Be mindful of what you click on and download. Avoid links from untrusted sources and be wary of emails with attachments or links, especially from unknown senders. Only download apps and files from trusted sources to avoid malware.

Online Safety for Kids

Teaching kids about internet safety is crucial. Children can unknowingly be gateways for cybercriminals. Here are three key areas to cover:

Digital Footprint

Explain to kids how their online actions leave a trail of information that others can see. Teach them not to share personal details like photos, addresses, or phone numbers.

Strong Passwords

Help kids understand the importance of strong passwords. Teach them to use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and to store passwords safely.

Safe Communication

Teach kids how to identify and avoid suspicious messages, links, and downloads. Explain the importance of polite online communication and how to recognize and avoid cyberbullying.

Conclusion

Staying safe online is more important than ever with the increasing number of internet-connected devices. By following these simple tips, you can protect yourself and your family from many online threats. Remember to use secure connections, create strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, keep your software updated, verify website reliability, review your privacy settings, and be cautious of links and downloads. Educating kids about internet safety is also essential to keep your home network secure. For those looking to improve their computer skills, consider taking a basic computer course in Delhi. Stay informed and vigilant to enjoy a safer online experience.