Protect Yourself Online
We work, shop, have coffee (or other beverages) and connect online! We access almost anything and depend heavily upon the fact that we can access almost anything though a connection via a phone, watch, app, tablet, pc and/or desktop.
Thank heavens for the access and convenience technology allows us! Today, let’s also consider ways to protect ourselves from prying eyes.
- Protect your name Cyber-stalking is on the rise. Contact from unwanted intruders comes in many forms: robo-calls, emails, snail mail, social media pings and more. While we may not use the traditional phone book much any more, the online versions (Whitpages, Intelius, Spokeo, MyLife ++) collect our data and publish it online about us. This information can go way back in time and isn’t necessarily accurate. These “data brokers” exist because of our information and thus, it is very difficult to remove our information, even when asked. Only a few states have enacted laws that pertain to people and searches. Vermont has taken action and seems to be leading the way. Consumer Reports created a document to help us with this, if you’re interested. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ElB7VXmr5JEkFaLJpO7YLGrAuasedmq-rZC-8TUMxTM/edit
- Multifactor Authentication is highly recommended! Sometimes called MFA or 2FA this is a second layer of protection for us (after a strong password) to prove we are who we say we are. This second layer of proof you are who you say you are can be via text, email or through an app
- Phishing is still here and is again on the rise. The hackers go “phishing” to see if they can gain access to our accounts, money, systems and information by sending emails, text messages or via fake websites. Word to the wise, always hover over the sender email address to see what it really is; do not open files or links sent unless you know the sender very well OR know the information is coming and be careful with phone call scammers too!
- Passwords are crazy to manage, I know! Be cautious – while it’s important your “people” who back you up have access, this information is invaluable
- Security Software for all devices is a MUST
- File back-up all important information
- Protect your WIFI from others nearby. Your WIFI network and your router are the “entrance spots”. Make sure you have a strong password and do change the name of your router from the factory name. People get pretty funny with their network names 🙂
- Cameras++ We have webcams, Alexa, Echo, Fire, Ring ++ with cameras and voice activation. People have been hacked through baby monitors 🙁 Ensure you have strong passwords, MFA and do make sure you use a different password with each connection!
- Find my device is a helpful feature in case you lose something. Check out your options in the settings area of the device – you may be able to lock down data if your device is stolen!
Always remember what you have for your personal life, applies also to your work life! Having a security plan for home and work is essential. We’ll be doing so much from home this year, it’s a perfect time to start out fresh!
When you think about how you will plot out navigating what’s needed to ensure you and your businesses are set-up for your protection and peace of mind, reach out. Email me: Lynn@thelivingplanner.com or contact me via the website: https://thelivingplanner.com
Keep well –Lynn
#NavigatingTheMovingPiecesInLife #LifeHacks