Table of contents
- Use Antivirus
- Avoid Public WI-FI Hotspots
- Choose an Internet Provider with Security Suite
- Create Guest Networks
- Conclusion
It is essential for us to take all the necessary steps to ensure our safety online. This is because we are extensively dependent on the internet and devices connected to the internet. All our data is out there, and we don’t want it getting into the wrong hands. So, here are the four important tips you need to practice in life to ensure online safety for yourself and your family.
Use Antivirus
Antivirus software is readily available to be downloaded on your devices. These prevent any future viruses from getting into your system and also get rid of any existing viruses. Basically, antivirus software works by scanning each and every file or code that is sent through your network. If the software finds anything of a potential threat to your computer, it blocks it and sends you an alert. Similarly, it scans all files and codes already existing in your system, matches them with the database, and finds out if they have viruses in them. Once you are notified about the potential threat, you can easily get rid of those files or have the software do that automatically.
Avoid Public WI-FI Hotspots
With public Wi-Fi hotspots, the network signals are shared with multiple people at a time. There are also high chances that these hotspots are not encrypted, exposing your personal data to a lot of potential hackers and spyware. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are highly discouraged in the sense that they are not secure. However, what should one do if they need the internet out in public? The best solution here is to use the Wi-Fi hotspots provided to you by your internet provider. For example, Spectrum lets all its subscribers use the Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide provided by Spectrum itself. Consequently, you will have this peace of mind that Spectrum is a reliable provider and is also less open to the public than networks provided to you by restaurants and cafés. If you are an on-the-go internet user, get yourself secured by subscribing to Spectrum internet and using its public Wi-Fi hotspots. Speak to an expert at their customer service, or for assistance in Spanish, talk to servicio al cliente de Spectrum.
Choose an Internet Provider with Security Suite
Speaking of security and internet providers, one big thing that matters in maintaining online security is choosing a secure and reliable internet provider. This can get a little tricky because all providers do not necessarily focus on this factor. However, there are a few good internet providers that have excellent internet services with a focus on internet security as well. These are:
- Spectrum: Being the amazing provider it is, Spectrum also provides its internet customers with a full-scale security suite. The security suite is ideal for PCs and Macs.
- Suddenlink: With built-in security features, Suddenlink detects malware, phishing, and virus threats when you browse the internet on any device. You can learn more about this from Suddenlink customer service. If you are a Spanish speaker, you might as well get better assistance from Servicio al cliente de Suddenlink.
- AT&T: You will get free of cost McAfee security suite with all your AT&T internet plans. The best part is that this free security suite is added ton all internet plans, including the 100% fiber plans.
Create Guest Networks
If someone has access to your home network, it is much easier for them to get into your devices. This is a potential threat, especially for people who have smart home devices such as video doorbells and small security locks connected to their home Wi-Fi.
For this reason, you must create a guest network on your router. A guest network protects your Wi-Fi password. It does this because you won’t have to give the main password to people who are at your house temporarily, such as your friends and colleagues.
So your primary devices will not be exposed to potential threat from viruses that your guests may bring in and connect to your home Wi-Fi. A guest Wi-Fi is an access point that is separate from the main network. For this guest network, you have a separate name and Wi-Fi password, so your primary network is protected.
Shop Online Carefully
Online shopping is one of the most common places where your sensitive data is collected and extracted from. You put in your house address, your payment details, name, and phone number on these platforms. It is strongly advised to only use shopping platforms, websites, and sellers that are reliable. Plus, you should always look for online shopping sites where they have a cash payment option because that way you will be avoiding the need for giving out your card details. Always look for reviews, ask people around, and also speak to the seller through any medium available to check their credibility.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, we can say that online safety is not something impossible to achieve, and can be done easily if you have the right internet provider, the right antivirus software, and the right internet hardware. An advanced router with ample security encryption and features like guest networks is necessary. Meanwhile, make sure the internet service you are choosing also cares about your security.