In this day and age, we are more connected than ever. According to recent data, smart home systems are set to rise to a market value of $157 billion by 2023, and the number of installed connected devices in the home is expected to grow by a staggering 70% by 2025. Whether you work from home or simply have a smartphone, everyone can stand to have some help staying protected. Here are some tips for securing your devices in this new normal where smart devices and online safety are a must.
Remember, smart devices need smart security
Make cybersecurity a priority when buying a connected device. As you set up privacy and security settings on new web services and devices, remember to limit who sees what you are sharing. Once your device is set up, remember to keep tabs on how secure the information you store on it is. Also, actively manage the location services (GPS) so as not to expose your location unwittingly.
Put cybersecurity first in your job
Make cybersecurity a priority when starting a new role. Good online hygiene should be part of any organization’s onboarding process. If it is not, then take it upon yourself to exercise best practices to keep you and your company safe. Some precautions include performing regular software updates and enabling Multifactor Authentication (MFA).
Create passwords and passphrases that are long and strong
Whether or not the website you are on requires it, mix in letter cases, numbers, and symbols to create the most secure password/passphrase. Generic passwords are easy to hack. If you need help remembering and storing your passwords/passphrases, don’t hesitate to turn to a password manager for assistance when available.
Never use public computers to access private information
While libraries and coffee shops make a great place to binge your favorite show or research a new hobby, caution must be exercised to protect yourself. Make sure that security is always top of mind, especially while in a public setting. Avoid accessing private information, such as financials, and keep activities as generic and anonymous as possible.
Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when idle
The uncomfortable truth is, when enabled, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can connect and track your whereabouts. To stay as safe as possible, if you do not need them, switch them off. It’s a simple step that can help alleviate tracking concerns and incidents.
These are just a few simple steps towards achieving the best online safety possible. Staying safe online is an active process. It requires constant monitoring at every stage, from purchasing and setting up a device to making sure that your day-to-day activities are not putting anyone at risk. By following these steps, you are doing your part to keep yourself and your family safe from malicious online activity.