Being Safe Online

 How to Stay Safe Online

The Internet has recently become an important conduit for information and communications. Security of these information transmitted and privacy of communications are some serious concerns. There are cases of careers ruined as a result of misuse of the internet and people defrauded of their hard earned money. Also, there are cases of individuals committing suicide as a result of online bullying or blackmail over personal media. It is evident that we need to take adequate precautions when using the internet.

Common Internet Threats

1. Let's first discuss some common threats internet user may face online. These may be:

a. Phishing.

Phishing is an attempt to get sensitive information using authentic looking websites or emails. Such information include username, password or ATM card details. This is one of the technics used by the famous yahoo yahoo boys.

b. Cyberstalking.

Cyberstalking is the use of the Internet to contact someone or find out information about them in a way that is annoying or frightening.

c. Cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying is the act of harassing someone online by sending or posting mean messages. It might be in a bid to rattle you.

d. Blackmail.

Blackmail is demanding money from someone in return for not revealing compromising information. This information could be compromising private images exchanged with a spouse or associate.

e. Kidnapping.

Most times we leave the location on our devices on, to get for example an accurate weather report on our present location. But, this can also aid kidnappers in tracking your movements.

Ways to Stay Safe Online

2. Here are some ways you can ensure your safety when online:

a. Avoid using the same password for many internet accounts. Use a password manager to create and store strong unique passwords for your different accounts.

b. Do not leave mobile phones or other personal electronic devices unattended.

c. Never open emails or attachments from someone you don’t know.

d. Ensure online transactions are over Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure (https) not "http". This is because the secure version is less prone to attack than the unsecured "http".

e. Be careful with your personal information online especially when using a computer that is not yours. Your information could be of use to impersonate you.

f. Be sure to have an updated antivirus or antispyware application installed on your device.

g. Do not respond to abusive messages. Either ignore or use the report link, if available.

h. Be careful about what you post on social media. 

i. Finally, ensure your system is up to date.