The Internet has become an integral part of the majority of people's life. We use it for socializing, research, entertainment, business, education, and more. Given that you browse through the Internet often, you should at least know the habits that might cause you trouble.
1. Don't Use the Same Password
A lot of sites require you to create an account now, and it's easy to forget your passwords when there are just too many of them. Still, you should not use the same password for all, most, or any of your accounts.
This will expose you to hackers with malicious intentions. If you use it for one account, then it's likely that they'll try to access others too. Instead, you can write your passwords down on paper and store them somewhere only you can find or access them.
2. Avoid Downloading Files from Untrusted Sites
The Internet is crawling with malware, especially on sites that aren't secure or offer content unavailable anywhere else, as pointed out by HP. And yes, we're talking about torrent sites. Believe it or not, some of those files are fake and act as a Trojan horse for malware.
You may save a lot from downloading free content, but you'll be sorry once malware enters your system and corrupts your files. Corrupted files aren't even the worst-case scenario here. Your sensitive and personal data can be accessed by hackers that created the malware in the first place.
3. Clicking Suspicious Links
Ne'er-do-wells are getting more and more clever with how they hide infected files online for people to download. Sometimes, they appear as legitimate links. Try to avoid clicking on links that are sent by unknown users or appear on dodgy sites. Always verify first.
4. Reading the Terms of Agreement
It's a rare thing for someone to read the Terms of Agreement from start to finish, and everyone knows that. The software developers can take that opportunity to hide shady terms within the contract like accessing your files or monitoring your activity. Just skim through the text, at least, so you know what you're agreeing to.
5. Don't Be So Sure
You don't hear cases of people getting hacked that often, so it's easy to brush the idea off. What are the chances that you'll get hacked, right? No matter how small the possibility is, it's still a possibility. Never be risky when browsing through the web, no matter how unlikely it is for you to be hacked.
Read Also: Top 5 Browsers for Secure & Anonymous Surfing
6. Ignoring Browser Updates
Browser updates aren't just to spruce up your browser experience. It's also there to make sure that you aren't at risk when you go through websites. Updates usually contain patches that fix flaws from the previous versions or add features that strengthen your security.
With the updates, you'll be less exposed to vulnerabilities, as mentioned in Make Use Of. Besides, it'll take a few seconds, maybe even 5 minutes tops. That's a small price to pay to avoid being duped by hackers.
7. Don't Share Too Much
Social media is a nice way to stay in touch with the people in your life and reach them easily. However, that very convenience could become a security risk if you share a little too much. People with bad intentions can learn a lot by looking at your profile.
Try to limit the information you share as much as you can. If it's not necessary to put it in your profile, then don't add it. If you want to put your information out there, at least make your profile private if possible, so only those that you're friends with can see it.
8. Bank Details Should Stay Off the Internet
When you make a purchase online, you will need to add your debit or credit card information. With that being said, make sure that the site can be trusted. Don't save your bank account details online just so you won't have to type it again next time.
