The internet is nothing new, but it constantly feels like something that's being redesigned by the day. Back when it was envisioned as the "Galactic Network" in the 1960s, it was – to say the least – far from popular. It would take another 30 years to reach the masses, and another 10 to achieve peak popularity.
Today, we're more connected than ever, but also more open to scams and security breaches. The risk is growing as we (and unsavoury cybercriminals) become smarter at working online. In 2015, there was a 38 per cent rise in detected security incidents compared to 2014, according to PwC.
So, let's focus on staying safe online. Here are four good habits to get into if you want to make yourself, your family and your savings accounts safer:
1) Invest in reputable security software
The average cost of a stolen record is $208.
Information collected by Swimlane shows that the average cost of a stolen record is $208. That's quite a chunk of change, and more than an annual subscription to most security software products.
If your computer is not protected, you could be at risk of malware and other scams that can damage your computer and lead to leaked personal information. So, it makes sense to save up and invest a little in a reputable piece of software.
2) Manage your passwords
It's one of the downsides of living in 2016 that you need to retain a large number of PINs and passwords to keep your bank account and other personal things safe. It's no small task, but an important one.
You'll have noticed that password requirements have become much more elaborate, with minimum character counts, symbols and numbers all requested, which doesn't make them all too memorable. What's worse, Facebook, Netflix and practically every other password-requiring service advises you to use a unique code for each account.
If you struggle with this, CHOICE advises people to use a password manager to help keep on top of all these new safety requirements.
3) Avoid spam emails like the plague
Say you're saving up to buy a home. You'll want to keep as much of your money for yourself. However, you may also be open to spam emails that claim to help you "make thousands of dollars a day", and other ridiculous pipe dreams.
Some email scams are simpler and more despicable, claiming to be from a family member or someone you trust. Once you open the link, your device or desktop is likely to become infected, which is when your personal details can be stolen and your finances drained.
Be very safe when opening emails. Learn how to identify ones that look suspicious – often the formatting can be clunky and the tone suspiciously unlike your friends. For even better email security, you can:
- Use at least two email accounts, with one for trustworthy friends, family and contacts, and the other for newsletters and the like
- Deactivate old email accounts that you don't use, to avoid having it hacked and becoming an unsuspecting spammer yourself
- If you receive a lot of spam from known companies, click unsubscribe to reduce the complexity of your inbox
- Use spam filters to automate your inbox management – your email provider will soon learn what should go to the junk folder without your help
4) Take particular care when shopping online
It's a wonderful world we live in – one where you can place an order online today and receive your items tomorrow. However, don't be fooled: Shopping online is not all bargains, and a slight slip could send your budget planning out of the window! According to PwC, a huge 95 per cent of cyber breaches are in the retail industry.
Some handy tips for safe shopping online include only using reputable companies, checking for the padlock symbol in the address bar of your browser when entering sensitive banking information, and using safe payment solutions like PayPal when possible.
The world-wide web is an incredible achievement, but also a risky one. Take the right precautions and you can feel the freedom of the online world, without the substantial downsides.
