Just as the internet has grown in scope, benefits and users, it has also grown in risks as hackers are becoming more common. To avoid being the victim of an online scammer, here we will give you 6 keys that will help you protect yourself online.
One of the reasons why you can be scammed is a lack of common sense. That's right, turning off our sense of alertness can put us at risk. And it is that, according to information from security agencies, the
Internet scams have grown 70% in recent years. This due to the lack of caution on the part of digital users. Common sense will help you identify potentially dangerous websites that you should avoid. If you think that paying $1 for shipping will give you an iPhone 13 pro, then your common sense is failing.
- Check well the links of the webs
Another way to avoid falling for scam websites is to learn how to check website URLS for trustworthiness. An online store without an SSL security certificate (the s in HTTPS) is undoubtedly a site to be wary of. Similarly, if you entered a supposedly official page of a brand and notice something strange in the URL such as a .io domain or something different from the official website, then it is a scam attempt.
Hackers use system vulnerabilities to enter your devices. An example is security breaches and open Wi-Fi networks.
Here you can download and try a VPN software for free, a software that will protect you against these incursions. This thanks to the fact that it creates a shield between you and the internet. You can even change your location to protect your information! Another great advantage of the VPN is that it works actively and passively, preventing hackers from slipping in in real time, as well as changing your data to protect your privacy before browsing.
One of the ways that hackers seek to steal your personal and banking information is through malware such as spyware. An antivirus will help you both prevent an infection and eliminate an attack if some malware has already slipped into your computer or mobile. Having an antivirus is very important, since this program constitutes one of the most efficient defense mechanisms. Also, if you combine the use of an antivirus with a VPN, for example, you will have a much more robust line of defense that is difficult to break.
- Don't use open Wi-Fi networks
We know how tempting it can be to use an open Wi-Fi network like the one in an airport or a public park, but it is better not to do it. This is because an open Wi-Fi network can be the gateway for hackers. By not having passwords anyone can connect to it. Many hackers take advantage of this to try to sneak into other devices. If you have no other choice but to connect
learn how to protect on an open Wi-Fi network. This will prevent online criminals from accessing your device and all its information.
- Beware of spam and phishing emails
One of the techniques most used by online scammers is to send emails or messages with fraudulent links. This is known as phishing and is one of the most common methods of scamming people. Nowadays, many antivirus and mail systems have alerts for both Spam and Phishing. Similarly, you can protect yourself by learning to identify fraudulent links such as fake URLs or alarmist messages. Identifying phishing will undoubtedly help you navigate the Internet safely.