Top 5 Digital Security Tips You Can Implement Today

Did you know that every 7 seconds someone is the victim of identity theft? (DTC USA 2020)

Whether it's browsing one of my websites, shopping online, or using one of the many apps on my phone, I'm available 24/7. While I have always taken certain security measures, I started working on implementing additional measures as I learned more about digital security.

The statistics are a little discouraging: in 2020, 47% of American adults experienced identity theft that resulted in billions of dollars in losses. Unfortunately, identity theft is becoming more and more of a problem given the digital society we live in today.

This can happen to anyone (regardless of age) and often leaves victims feeling confused and overwhelmed when they go through the process of changing or recovering their personal information and lost funds.

Given the opportunity, most people would prefer to prevent identity theft and also deal with the consequences once the perpetrator has access to sensitive information.

While our digital footprint puts more people at risk, there are still some practical and proven ways to make digital security a priority and prevent identity theft from you and your loved ones!

1. Digital Security Tip #1: Protect Your Passwords

Your account passwords are the gateway to personal information that criminals can use to commit credit card fraud, bank fraud, or similar crimes. It is important to create a strong password to protect your data.

Typically, this means a password of at least eight characters, uppercase and lowercase letters, and a combination of numbers and special characters.

While many sites are getting better at offering two-factor authentication, when you receive a text or email with a code to help you sign in, there is still a risk that someone can bypass the security factor if they get your password.

2. Digital Security Tip #2: Keep Your Computer and Mobile Devices Updated

Computer updates always appear at the most inopportune moment - and I never like to do them! However, they are important for your digital security.

Having the latest web browser, security software, and operating system can be an important layer of protection against viruses and malware.

Online threats are everywhere and only increasing, so it is imperative that your computer and devices are updated to deal with them.

3. Digital Security Tip #3: Make sure your WiFi connection is secure

While I love working in cafes, free Wi-Fi isn't always what it should be. If you have an open Wi-Fi connection, cybercriminals can easily try to steal your data while you are browsing and shopping online.

This is why having a secure WiFi connection is of great importance.

Whether you're at home or on the road, make sure you have Wi-Fi security and a VPN connection.

A VPN connection stands for Virtual Private Network and establishes a secure connection to the Internet so that all your data goes through an encrypted process.

4. Digital Security Tip #4: Beware of Digital and Phone Scams

Watch out for scammers who may try to get you to reveal your personal information such as social security numbers and banking information. Phishing scams are common when someone can send you a text or email with a downloadable attachment, which is usually a virus.

There are also customer support scams where you might think you are talking to a customer support agent. In fact, this is a criminal trying to guide you through the process of setting up remote access to your computer or device, which will allow them to steal your information.

5. Digital Security Tip #5: Monitor Identity Theft

Achieving a certain level of identity theft monitoring is one of the best ways to ensure digital security and reach multiple of your bases at once. Identity theft monitoring often runs in the background while you go about your life and go about your daily chores.

You can set up monitoring to protect your social security number, bank and credit card information, and alert you to data breaches that your passwords may be involved in.