You have probably heard of horror stories of hackers stealing people’s identities online, especially with banking or personal information. These instances often result in innocent people’s social and financial lives being crippled and destroyed. And that does not stop there.
Even website and domain owners are at risk of identity theft. Business owners know the dangers of hacked servers and leaked data, so it’s essential for companies to have either an internal IT staff or outsource their managed IT services to a company like Welkin IT, to ensure their personal data and their client’s information is secure.
The digital age has brought with it unlimited possibilities that deserve to be celebrated. Still, there is no denying that it has given more impetus to the prevalence of digital crimes. Today, identity theft threats are commonplace for unwise computer and internet users. It isn’t uncommon in online forums to find stories of people who have been kidnapped, abducted, harmed, or even worse. All that because of a savvy hacker stealing information from unlocked smart devices. That is the reality we face because it can happen to our colleagues, family, or friends. Which brings us to our topic today: How exactly can you keep your identity safe on the web?
Use strong and different passwords.
When it comes to passwords, most people fail to realize that most of our information is interconnected. That is why you have to use different passwords for your computer, apps, social networks, and other devices.
Some websites even go the extra mile in trying to protect us from identity theft. Whereas it could seem annoying, certain websites stipulate requirements for the lengths, type, and total characters that should comprise your password. Ultimately, it is for your safety.
Keep off public Free Wi-Fi.
Using public Wi-Fi could be super dangerous. Remember that these are safe havens for identity thieves and hackers. Hackers use cookies and malware to steal your information. And you wouldn’t do yourself any good by exposing your device through access to public Wi-Fi. If you must use Free Wi-Fi, your best bet would be to only stick to those with passwords.
Use a secured VPN network service.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a trusted and secure online network service. It works because when you connect to Wi-Fi, the router’s ISP address becomes accessible to potential hackers. What a VPN does is block the ISP address so that hackers are barred from accessing your Wi-Fi or any other personal information they can find. Therefore, if you are looking to keep your identity safe, find a reliable VPN to use for your smart devices.
Steer clear of the Dark Web
Have you ever heard of the dark web? It isn’t a myth. This is a platform where all sorts of illegal activities and exchanges take place: People sell drugs, and weapons, among other items. Besides, it is a place where criminals hire hackers to find GPS locations for their targets. And we probably know how that could end. For bloggers and affiliate marketers, be keen to avoid inbound or outbound links to sites you have no business visiting. Such sites include the dark web.
Final Thoughts
Identity theft is real. Hackers are intent on stealing our information and data whenever possible. The criminal gangs on the web are fully aware of precisely what type of data they want as well as where to find it. Therefore, do not trust and get duped with unsuspecting emails that purport to be from legitimate sources. Always keep a watchful eye.
