What Are the Best Practices for Maintaining Privacy and Security Online?

Powered by AI and the women in tech community.

Ensure online safety with strong, unique passwords and by enabling 2FA. Keep software updated and be wary of phishing. Use secure networks, limit social media shares, and employ privacy tools. Secure your Wi-Fi, monitor finances, and understand privacy policies to protect your personal data.

Ensure online safety with strong, unique passwords and by enabling 2FA. Keep software updated and be wary of phishing. Use secure networks, limit social media shares, and employ privacy tools. Secure your Wi-Fi, monitor finances, and understand privacy policies to protect your personal data.

Contribute to three or more articles across any domain to qualify for the Contributor badge. Please check back tomorrow for updates on your progress.

Contribute to three or more articles across any domain to qualify for the Contributor badge. Please check back tomorrow for updates on your progress.

Use Strong and Unique Passwords

To protect your online privacy and security, ensure each of your accounts has a strong, unique password. Combine letters, numbers, and symbols to create complex passwords, and avoid using easily guessable information like your birthday or pet's name. For managing multiple secure passwords, consider using a reputable password manager.

Add your perspective

Enable Two-Factor Authentication 2FA

Two-Factor Authentication provides an additional layer of security by requiring two forms of identification before accessing your accounts. This often includes something you know, like a password, and something you have, like a text message code sent to your phone, dramatically reducing the chances of unauthorized access.

Add your perspective

Regularly Update Software

Keep your operating system, applications, and any software you use up-to-date. Developers frequently release updates that fix security vulnerabilities. By neglecting software updates, you could be leaving an open door for cybercriminals to exploit outdated security flaws.

Add your perspective

Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts

Educate yourself and be vigilant about phishing tactics. These are attempts by hackers to trick you into giving out personal information through deceptive emails or websites. Always verify the authenticity of messages and do not click on suspicious links or attachments.

Add your perspective

Use Secure Networks

When online, ensure you are using secure, encrypted networks. Public Wi-Fi can be dangerous as it may be unsecured, leaving your data vulnerable to interception. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your Internet connection.

Add your perspective

Limit Personal Information on Social Media

Be mindful of the personal information you share on social media platforms. Adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your posts and personal details. Over-sharing can make you an easy target for identity thieves or other malicious actors.

Add your perspective

Utilize Privacy Tools and Services

Consider using privacy-focused tools and services, such as search engines that do not track your searches, browsers committed to privacy, and VPNs. These tools can significantly reduce your digital footprint and protect your data from third parties.

Add your perspective

Secure Your Home Network

Ensure your home Wi-Fi is secured with a strong password and WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Change the default username and password of your router to something more complex to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, regularly update your router’s firmware for the latest security patches.

Add your perspective

Monitor Your Financial Transactions

Keep a close eye on your bank statements and credit reports to quickly identify and report any unauthorized transactions. Many financial institutions offer alerts for suspicious activity, so signing up for these notifications can provide timely updates.

Add your perspective

Know Your Rights and the Privacy Policies

Familiarize yourself with the privacy policies of websites and apps you use to understand how your data is collected, used, and protected. Be aware of your legal rights regarding data protection and privacy, which vary depending on your location, and leverage these rights to take control of your personal information.

Add your perspective

What else to take into account

This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Add your perspective

Internet and Web Navigation Skills

Want to contribute ? We select experts based on their experience and skills.

Learn more about becoming a contributor.

Rate this article

More articles on Internet and Web Navigation Skills

See all

More relevant reading

Tech Literacy in Education
Can Gamification Be the Key to Engaging More Women in Tech Literacy Programs?
Digital Communication Tools
How Are Emerging Digital Communication Platforms Shaping Women's Leadership in the Tech Industry?
Online Safety and Security
What Are the Best Practices for Women to Ensure Privacy on Social Media?
Digital Content Creation Skills
Why Is Understanding User Experience Essential for Women Content Creators?