How to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime in 2021
Earlier this week the headlines were filled with the latest scams including covid and government grants.
Such scams are crippling for businesses and individuals and can significantly impact day-to-day life.
In this post, we’ve picked out five ways to stay safe online in 2021. And, while it’s impossible to remove every weak link within your digital world, the following tips will ensure you stand a lesser chance of becoming a victim of cybercrime.
And just remember, if you need support, please don’t hesitate to call us today.
Suspicious text or email? Delete it.
Email remains a common vehicle for viruses and effective tool for cybercriminals. If you receive a message that raises a suspicion – no matter how small – delete it.
Remember – banks will never ask you for personal details via email, and if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Change your passwords – regularly
Hands up if you use the same password for everything!
And how about that same password is one you’ve had for years?!
As inconvenient as it may seem, one of the best things you can do to protect yourself online is to use different passwords for each website, make them impossible to guess, and change them regularly.
If you’re worried you won’t remember them all, try out a password manager to make it less of a burden – they’re brilliant tools.
Use fingerprint or face ID
If you have a relatively new iPhone or Android-based device, it will most likely possess some form of biometric security.
Usually, this is provided in the form of a fingerprint scanner, so check your settings screen.
The alternative is to use a passcode, which is inherently insecure. So, if you’re currently tapping a number into your phone to unlock it, try out the fingerprint scanner instead; it should be far easier to use and will definitely be more secure.
Never write down passwords or other important information
We’ve all done it – now’s the time to stop doing it; don’t write down your access details for anything.
The same goes for your WiFi; ensure you change your default router password and avoid writing down the new one (store it in your lovely new password manager, instead!).
Remember to log out of of your accounts
Whether you’re logged into your webmail, favourite social network or bank account – make sure you go through the process of logging out when finished, particularly when you’re using a public or work computer.
Most websites will automatically log you out after a while anyway, but don’t rely on that – it’ll take someone seconds to get what they need after you’ve vacated the seat.
Just remember…
Despite our best efforts, cybercriminals often find a way in, but if you follow our tips above, you’ll create a barricade that forces most people intent on stealing your data to seek out an easier target.