Avoiding Cyber Attacks during the Pandemic

The internet started raging in the 1960s and was officially invented in the 1980s, and 1981 is precisely the year of the first cybercrime. This means that cybercriminals have been devising strategies to use the internet to their benefit since its inception. Avoiding Cyber Attacks-

The year 2020 was a test for all of us considering the adverse effects of the coronavirus pandemic and while the virus has not been wiped off completely, it is fortunate that its grip has been loosened. Since last year, most people have advanced their internet usage as the entire world went under quarantine and everyone’s movement was restricted. This dependence on the internet opened new realms for not only regular internet users but also cybercriminals. Even though the global pandemic has come to rest now, the maddening inclination towards the internet has not overturned, and honestly speaking, it is not going to be reversed either as the masses have found convenience on account of the internet.

As such, it is pertinent that people understand the gravity of cyber-attacks and subsequently can take measures to avoid them. The first, most important step in this direction is to get connected with an internet provider that speaks the same language of security that you require. People living in Texas have a great option in the form of Grande – it provides total device and service protection as well as internet security and 24/7 support. You can start your own business by getting a llc in texas. Everyone else can find out about other compatible and secure ISPs by entering their zip code on websites like localcabledeals.com.

This article discusses ways through which you can be Avoiding Cyber Attacks during and after this pandemic.

1. Be mindful when accessing emails- Avoiding Cyber Attacks

One thing that we do not really care about is checking our emails. Emails are one of the most used mediums by cybercriminals. Cybercriminals use emails for two purposes:

Phishing – allows them to prey on innocent individuals. Cybercriminals pose as legitimate companies and try to get sensitive information like social security numbers, credit card numbers, etc. from them in order to hack their financial or personal records.

Viruses and malware – are sent to individuals through emails as attachments. When people open these attachments, virus and malware programs enter their device making it a clone for cybercriminals. This way, they can access all your data and can use it in any way to damage your individuality. 

It is very important to be mindful when browsing through emails. Do not open any emails or especially attachments from unknown sources to keep your online integrity intact.

2. Use secure browsers and passwords

You must have seen a lot of clickbait posts, pages that have absolutely no content – these pages usually contain viruses, and so it is always better to ignore clicking on any such questionable content. Another good practice is to always use secure browsers like Firefox, Google Chrome, and Tor, etc.

Using the same passwords for all our accounts has become a common practice and it is one of the worst things you can do online. Your passwords are the gateway to your personal and financial records. Some important things to remember when creating passwords are:

• Make sure that all your accounts have unique passwords.
• Do not use any personal information like your pet’s name or date of birth as a password.
• Do not use generic passwords like 12345678 or 00000000. Always make sure to use a combination of alphabets, numbers, and symbols.

3. Access only secure sites

Website browsing is a common thing now and while it does not seem harmful, it very much can be. Most people do not understand the difference between secure and unsecured websites and land in trouble. All you need to do is check the URL of the website: sites starting with HTTPS are secure while the ones that start with HTTP are unsecure and should not be used.

4. Use a VPN

A Virtual Private Network or VPN is being used as a means to open restricted websites; however, its utilities are much more than just that. VPN is a way to secure your online actions and is especially important when using a public connection.

Accessing public wi-fi seems like a great opportunity, although, these networks are fairly unsecure as everyone can access them. Furthermore, oftentimes, such public Wi-Fi networks are assembled by cybercriminals as means to trap innocent individuals. Using a VPN makes your connection secure as it hides your real IP address and gives you an untraceable virtual IP address. As such, cybercriminals are unable to identify your protocols and so you remain safe from any potential cyber-attack.

5. Update your programs and devices

Always remember that manufacturers keep on processing their product and service research in order to fix any potential loopholes, so when you get software or device updates, make sure to install them as soon as possible. Most updates have security features that include reforms to protect your device and programs.