The statistics of cybercrime are terrifying. Over 800,000 records are lost every 24 hours. No one is safe, be it individuals, small businesses, or even large corporations. As people are migrating most of their activities online, the threat only continues to increase. The sad part is that the advancement in technology empowers cybercriminals as they find new and sophisticated ways of launching attacks.
Data is valuable, and if it lands in the wrong hands, it may result in a magnitude of losses, ruining of reputation, and many other irreversible damages. Do not wait until disaster strikes to implement damage control measures. Instead, purpose to be proactive about protecting your data by enhancing the security of your mobile devices. But in addition to protecting the devices themselves, it is also necessary to protect your data during online transactions. I therefore recommend the Fully-Verified platform for video id verification. However, here are some handy strategies to use.
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Secure your web browsers
A significant number of cybercriminals are using web browsers to launch attacks. This is because they are being used frequently by different people. For instance, gamblers are enjoying playing online casino games on their mobile devices. The best part is that they can even access casino sites through their browsers without installing the apps.
Therefore, there is a need to secure browsers to prevent intruders from taking control of your devices. Keeping your browser updated is one of the ways you can secure it. It would be best if you also were very cautious when using browser extensions, as some of them are rogue. Also, visit the privacy and security setting of your browsers and enable settings that will help keep your information safe and secure.
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Enable “Find my device.”
Accidents do happen, and some cannot be prevented, for instance, your device getting stolen. While there is the loss of the investment you made in buying the device, much more is at stake: data. The good news is that there is a Google locator that can help you track your equipment in good time before your data lands in the wrong hands. Alternatively, you can wipe out the data from where you are.
To enjoy this feature, all you need to do is install the “Find My Device” app, or access it on the web browser and turn your location on. The app comes with a range of security features to help you protect your data. On top of tracking and retrieving your device and wiping data, you can lock it so that nobody can access its content.
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Be proactive about mobile device security practices
You can do several things to avoid falling prey to cybercriminals through your smartphone or computer. For one, you can integrate an email sandbox in your device to prevent email phishing. Also, be wary of email attachments from unknown sources: they could be from hackers. An email sandbox will go a long way in helping you distinguish legit emails from scams.
Also, be cautious when providing information to websites and emails: not all can be trusted.
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Create strong passwords
This will protect your data in case you lose your phone or computer, or when hackers have access to it. As much as most people find it hectic to come up with different strong passwords for different accounts, it would help if you did it. Hackers can easily bypass weak and obvious passwords. Do not give them an easy time getting their hands on your information.
Use two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security. Longer and complex passwords have a better chance of protecting you, even from the most seasoned hackers. Passwords containing your birth date, name, and age are obvious and easy to crack.
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Install security apps
Even though the use of passwords, screen locks, and securing web browsers can help keep hackers at bay, you still need to do more. Security apps such as antivirus software will keep you safe even when you are not looking. They will give you alerts when there is unusual activity in your device and act on the threats.
Also, remember that antivirus software also requires regular updates to enhance their capability to handle new threats.
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Monitor your app and website permissions
Most are the times when users blindly allow apps to access different types of information on their devices. When asked for permission, take the time to know the information the apps want and determine whether it could turn out to be a security threat in the future. Some apps gather sensitive information such as email addresses, phone serial numbers, and much more, which is dangerous. Alternatively, you can install trusted apps that can help you bypass permissions when on particular websites or using apps.
The security of your data starts with you. Companies that have lost their data to hackers have suffered losses, damage to reputation, and others have even shut down. Do not be a victim of cyberattacks: embrace the above security practices.