5 online security tips most people don’t think about

Everyone has been given their fair share of online security tips. Whether or not they follow these tips, is a different story.

However, there are certain tips you hear that make you say, “Yeah, I know that.” And then there are other tips that are more than worthy of a double-take (and quite possibly a triple-take).

Here are 5 online security tips most people don’t think about.

Don’t overshare on social media.

Let’s start with something very near and dear to almost everyone’s hearts — social media.

When you’re gearing up to share something on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or whatever platform you most identify with, think about it for a moment.

Will this give someone enough information to steal your identity? Will this give someone an open invitation to rob your home? Will this give someone enough justification to fire you?

Think before posting, tweeting, or gramming. Be selective with what you share, and don’t just assume that no one will use whatever you share against you. Because if they can, they probably will.

Don’t access private info over public WiFi.

There is such a thing as a malicious WiFi hotspot. Hop onto one of these connections unknowingly and any number of things might occur.

This doesn’t always include a run-of-the-mill virus. In fact, sometimes this specific cyber threat can get downright frightening. This is mostly because this malicious connection may give a hacker the ability to see everywhere you go and everything you type. Doesn’t seem like a good time, now does it?

To keep it on the secure side, never access private or sensitive data on a public WiFi connection. And avoid logging into apps or tools you would prefer to keep as a private as possible.

Don’t share passwords.

This is basically cybersecurity 101, but it still needs to be mentioned — mostly because online users everywhere are still relying on less-than-acceptable password practices.

Never share your password. Just don’t do it — especially when we’re talking workplace passwords. You never know what a coworker’s true intentions are. Give your password out to the wrong person, and you could end up jobless and confused.

Instead, seek out different ways to share documents, apps, or information with coworkers. Many web apps allow you to hand out limited account access to people, add someone as a contributor, or simply give someone permission to “view” something. (All of which are extremely better options than sharing a password.)  

Don’t write down passwords.

While we’re on the subject of passwords, never write one down and leave it out in the open for just any ol’ set of eyeballs to see. Technically, you shouldn’t write down a password at all. But if you have to do it, make sure it’s locked away somewhere safe. In other words, don’t write it on a sticky note and stick it to the corner of your computer.  

Don’t postpone updates.

Every now and then, your phone, computer, tablet, or other connected device sends you a specific type of notification. And while this might be phrased any number of ways, it’s ultimate message is the same.

UPDATE ME NOW.

Usually, you’ll be given the opportunity to update your device now or to postpone it until later. If you’re like most people, then you automatically shoot for the “postpone” option. But instead of postponing it once, you postpone it again … and again … and again …

This is a bad habit to pick up. Updates to your devices typically entail security patches to known vulnerabilities. The longer you postpone these updates, the larger these vulnerabilities will grow. And you don’t want that happening.

If you’d like to learn more about staying secure online, then take a look at our latest article, 6 common cyber threats and how to avoid them. You can also register for our upcoming Lunch and Learn on November 1st at the Microsoft Technology Center in Southfield. We’ll be joining forces with 360 Risk Management to discuss the everyday threats to your business.