Internet security is something that none of us can ignore. If you think about everything you do online and how many personal details you share or enter into different programs (like banking apps), it’s critical to protect yourself online.
Internet security is about preventing and protecting your devices against malicious attacks and cyber threats. There are various types of internet security, from installing anti-virus software, DNS filtering and firewalls to prevent cyber attacks and the installation of malware, to using a VPN that allows you to encrypt data and protect yourself from spyware and data tracking.
With malware and malicious attacks becoming increasingly sophisticated and happening more frequently, it is essential to evaluate and update your internet security to prevent threats or cyber attacks from malicious browsers, networks, and hackers.
What are online threats?
There are a number of ways that cyber-attacks and threats occur online.
- Viruses – There are many forms of computer viruses, from Trojan horses, worms, ransomware, adware, wipers, to scareware. Once installed, they can perform many harmful operations, from self-replicating to removing system files on your computer.
- Spyware – A program or system file that will harvest data, keystrokes, and internet activity and send the information to an external host, usually for malicious intentions.
- Malware – Is short for Malicious Software and refers to any software that is intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer or device, server, or computer network. Malware can slow down your computer or generally make things perform differently to how they should.
What are the best ways to protect yourself from online threats?
There are some simple but effective ways that you can improve your internet security.
1. Use a VPN for increased security and privacy while online
A great way to improve your internet security and add privacy while online is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN safeguards you from spyware, unsecured networks, adware, and regional censorship. It also ensures your online activity remains anonymous, encrypting your data and your location.
Another advantage of using a VPN is that your ISP (Internet Service Provider) will not be able to trace or store any of your online activity or searches, making your online activity untraceable and completely private. It does so by changing your IP address.
There are hundreds of VPN services out there, all offering different features that you should take into account before signing up. Consider your needs and be sure to check connection speeds on offer, as some services are far slower than others, rendering them useless for gaming or streaming video content.
The best way to navigate through the huge number of VPN services is by using a trusted and unbiased review or information service such as PrivacySharks. They provide extensive reviews of VPN services and share their expertise regarding internet security.
2. Use anti-virus software
Using trusted anti-virus software is a great way to protect your devices from most threats encountered online. These anti-virus programs will regularly check your computer and files, scanning and removing potentially damaging files or programs. You can find plenty of free versions too, or for a small fee can usually upgrade to a paid version with added security features and benefits.
3. Keep your software and operating system up to date
It’s really important to keep your software and operating system up to date and make sure you’re running the latest version. That’s because each new release will come with fixes and sometimes these have to do with online security. If you don’t keep them current you could be missing valuable updates that could keep you safe.
Like we mentioned at the start, good internet security is essential to protect yourself online. Luckily there are some simple ways to boost your security, as we have shared here. If you’re missing any of these key solutions, you can fix that right now in a matter of minutes. Stay safe and keep your devices running smoother by looking after them.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind