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0871 244 0934In today's world, we do almost everything online. From shopping and banking to connecting with family, the internet is a part of our daily lives. This convenience is great, but it also comes with risks. Knowing how to stay safe online is more important than ever.
Cyber threats don't just affect big companies; they can happen to anyone. A stray click on a suspicious link or connecting to an unsecured network could put your personal information at risk. This guide offers practical internet safety tips to help you protect your new computer and personal data, making sure your online experience is a safe one.
Understanding the common dangers is the first step in staying safe online. Here are some day-to-day issues you might run into:
These are fake emails and text messages designed to look real. They might pretend to be from your bank, a delivery company, or even a government body, trying to trick you into giving away passwords or financial details. New AI-powered scams can be very convincing.
Malware is malicious software that can steal your information, while ransomware can lock up all your personal files, photos, documents, and demand a payment to get them back. This can be devastating if you don't have backups.
Connecting to free Wi-Fi in a cafe, airport, or hotel is convenient, but these networks are often not secure. Criminals on the same network could potentially see what you're doing and steal your login details or card information.
This is often the end goal of the threats above. Once criminals have enough of your personal information, like your name, address, and bank details, they can use it to apply for credit or commit fraud in your name. This data is often sold on the dark web.
Some viruses are designed to give hackers secret access to your computer's webcam and microphone, invading your privacy without you ever knowing.
This happens when a company or organisation suffers a security failure, and hackers steal a large amount of personal customer data. Your information, which could include your email, passwords, home address, and even payment details, is then often sold on the dark web.
Good habits are your first line of defence. Following these online safety tips can significantly lower your risk of becoming a victim.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid simple passwords. A good password is long and uses a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Using a password manager can help you create and store complex passwords for every account.
Be Wary of Suspicious Messages: Think before you click. If an email or text message seems unexpected or too good to be true, it probably is. Check the sender's details carefully and never open attachments from unknown sources.
Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi: A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a vital tool for internet and safety. It encrypts your connection, creating a secure and private tunnel for your data. This stops others on the same network from snooping on your activity.
Back Up Your Important Files: Regularly back up your photos, documents, and other important files. If your computer's hard drive fails or you're hit by ransomware, having a recent backup means you won't lose everything.
Install Comprehensive Security Software: The most effective way to protect your devices is with a complete security suite. Good antivirus software works in the background to block threats in real-time, acting as a constant guard for your digital life.
The internet is a fantastic place for kids to learn and play, but it’s important to guide them. Just as you'd teach them to cross the road safely, it's vital to teach them how to navigate the online world.
Open communication is key. Talk to your children about what they do online and encourage them to tell you if anything makes them feel uncomfortable. Tools like Norton's Parental Control are a great support, letting you set screen time limits, block unsuitable content, and see what sites they visit.
Simple household rules can make a big difference. Agree on when and where devices can be used, keeping them out of bedrooms at night is a good starting point. Teach them never to share personal information like their full name, school, or address online. These small steps help build good digital habits for life.
Norton 360 Deluxe is an all-in-one security suite that protects your computers, phones, and tablets from modern online threats.
Protecting your digital life doesn't have to be complicated. With the right tools, you can shop, bank, and browse with confidence. Explore our range of Norton 360 subscriptions to find the perfect fit for your devices and family.
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