Most of us go online dozens of times a day to check bank balances, scroll social feeds, order groceries, and a host of other activities that make up modern life. But behind the convenience is a landscape filled with cyber-risks – from account takeovers to phishing scams. Online safety matters more than ever. Here are a few simple browsing habits that can help you protect your privacy and data online. Think of it as the digital equivalent of locking your front door.
Strengthen account security with passphrases and MFA
Start by making logins harder to crack. Instead of short, guessable passwords, consider using long passphrases – a string of random words, or even a quirky sentence only you would remember. For example, Pineapple!SledRiver2025* is much stronger than Password123. Combine this with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) such as a text code or authenticator app, and you’ve built yourself a solid barrier around your accounts. It might feel like an extra click, but it’s particularly important for banking and other financial accounts – and far easier than recovering a stolen identity.
Avoid risky links and secure your connection with a VPN
To connect to the internet, using home Wi-Fi (ideally protected by WPA2 or WPA3) is your safest bet. Public Wi-Fi such as the free connections offered in airports or cafés can expose your data to prying eyes. If you must log in on the go (to do banking, for example), consider a VPN download to encrypt your connection. And if you receive a suspicious email or text, resist the reflex to click. Many phishing attempts look legitimate at first glance, but pausing for a second look can save you a major headache.
Keep devices updated and use trusted software
Those persistent pop-up reminders to update your system, browser, or app aren’t just annoyances – they’re vendor patches that are meant to close security gaps. Enable automatic updates so you don’t have to think about it. And when downloading apps or tools, stick to official app stores or developer websites. And that free shortcut promising ‘faster browsing’? More often than not, it’s malware in disguise.
Configure social media settings for maximum privacy
By default, social media platforms often share more than you’d like. To take control spend a few minutes digging into privacy settings. Restrict who can view your posts, disable location sharing, and limit access for third-party apps. Oversharing and posting all your holiday photos might seem harmless in the moment, but it’s often the first breadcrumb that scammers use to piece together bigger frauds.
Make safe browsing second nature
Safe browsing doesn’t have to mean drastic lifestyle changes or cutting down on essential online activities. By using stronger logins, securing your connections, keeping your devices up to date, and tightening privacy settings, you’ll create a safer digital environment and enjoy all the convenience without leaving the door open to cyber risks.
