As modern technology continues to develop, we spend more and more time online. Many of us grocery shop online and use our smartphones to send messages and post social media content. Most of us use Google daily to random searches.
Because of our increased online activity, we have to protect ourselves and understand how to stay safe. Unfortunately, along with all the benefits the internet and online life have brought, there are also drawbacks. Cyber criminals pose a real threat, and numerous pitfalls can ensnare the unwary.
Below are eight simple things you can do as a Vancouver resident to stay safe online.
1. Be cautious when using public WiFi networks
Using a public WiFi network can be fantastic – you don’t have to use your mobile data, and it can save you money when you are out and about and need to use your phone. However, you must be cautious.
If a public WiFi network has open access (i.e., no password required), it could be considered insecure. This lack of security means that any data you send or receive while connected to such a network can be easily intercepted by malicious actors. If you do choose to use a WiFi network with open access, avoid logging into sensitive accounts or conducting financial transactions on open networks.
2. Use two factor authentication where possible for payments
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different authentication factors to verify their identity. The 2FA feature can be enabled for many online accounts, such as online casinos. In a recent article, Giuseppe Faraone of CasinoTopsOnline goes in-depth about additional security for logins with iGaming and the industry's move to adopt Inclave for additional security:
“With Inclave, all your passwords are secured using the latest digital encryption technology, and you'll be notified immediately if any attempts are made to access your account.”
“…one of these highly secure passwords as the tool allows you to access these sites with a two-click or biometric login. This is what is so attractive about Inclave, eliminating the need to type in your login details. This is so important not only due to the incredible convenience but also because hackers can now detect a password every time you type it out.”
Online casinos are a great example of why 2FA is used. When using online casinos, you transfer money and enter your personal details, which is why 2FA or additional login and payment authentication is vital.
It doesn’t just apply to online casinos, though. We advise enabling advanced account and payment authentication wherever possible. This is the number one safeguard for protecting your payment details and login information.
3. Use different, strong passwords for online accounts
You must pay attention to your passwords. Firstly, don’t use the same password for every online login. If cyber criminals obtain that single password, they will be able to access all your online accounts. Yes, it can be a chore, but use password variations or completely different passwords for different accounts, for your peace of mind and protection.
Next, don’t choose a password that has anything to do with you. It shouldn’t include your birthday or name, for example. Instead, make it a random word that a criminal would be less likely to guess. Lastly, use strong passwords with special characters, different case letters and numbers.
4. Only give your personal details online if necessary
It should go without saying, but many people still share all their personal details even when it is not required. For example, on registration forms, only fill in the fields marked as required. Leave optional fields blank, as companies often use this information for marketing purposes.
Also, you should only ever give personal details to trusted sources. Too many people and businesses online simply want your data to sell to other companies. Lastly, keep your password private! There should NEVER be a reason why someone or something asks you for your password unless you are entering it into a login form.
5. Use consideration when accepting cookies
No, we don’t mean delicious cookies bought from the supermarket! When browsing websites, you’ve probably encountered pop-ups asking if you want to accept cookies. These are small files stored on your web browser that obtain information relating to your browsing sessions. For example, some cookies store login details, while others track what pages you visit.
You don’t have to accept cookies mindlessly. Often, you can reject the cookies, and it will not impact your browsing experience. Alternatively, where possible, we suggest choosing the “Use recommended only” option.
While cookies can enhance your browsing experience and provide personalization, there must be a balance. Avoid accepting all cookies blindly.
6. Verify information before acting on it
The internet and online consumer technology are awash with misinformation, phishing scams and false items meant to harm you. This means you can’t automatically take everything you see at face value.
A prime example is emails you receive and links within those emails. Often, an email might look genuine, but it could be a phishing scam that either directs you to a malicious website or tries to solicit your personal details. The key here is to look at the sender’s email address. If it has some random address that is not affiliated with what it’s describing, it’s 99% fake.
The same goes for websites and links you receive, and even information on social media. When acting on online information, take a step back and consider whether the source is credible. If you have any doubts, don’t act.
7. Think about your social media content before posting
Social media content can be incredibly damaging, and it has led to people losing their jobs and even prison sentences. You have to be especially careful when posting anything on social media as you never know how an image or your opinions could be negatively interpreted by someone else.
Before you post anything, consider if the content is appropriate, and think about whether anyone could take it out of context. Also, it’s important that you read your employers’ internet and social media usage guidelines. Many companies have strict social media policies to protect their reputation and to prevent employees from causing damage.
There have been instances where people have lost their jobs because they disparaged their employer online. A poor social media history can also impact your chances of finding future employment, as many businesses employ background checks on potential candidates. This can include things like criminal records, social media posts, and a simple Google search of the candidate’s name to see what appears.
8. Know the data protection regulations for B.C.
As with most countries and regions, British Columbia has a set of data protection regulations and guidelines. These state how businesses must use, obtain, maintain and share your personal data. It’s a strict set of legal guidelines meant to protect the public.
British Columbia data protection includes the generation of the privacy policy, customers’ rights concerning data usage and implied consent. We advise reading these regulations to at least gain an overview of your rights. This should help you stay safe and protect you from any online businesses trying to bypass these regulations.
Safeguard your online presence and activities with these essential tips
British Columbia has excellent internet facilities and data protection in place, which can help with your online security. However, the protections and features the government provides will only go so far. At some point, you also have to take responsibility for your own online security.
Stop and think about your actions from a security standpoint when doing anything online. Can you do anything to ensure your action doesn’t cause a safety issue? Should you be taking action at all? A little common sense and forethought can eradicate most of the potential security issues faced online in Vancouver.
Additionally, the eight tips provided above offer further safeguards. Password protection, additional authentication/verification, restrictive cookie acceptance and double-checking the validity of links, emails and websites are all incredibly simple but will protect your online world.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page/site is intended for entertainment purposes only. Please be aware that gambling entails inherent risks, and it's crucial to acknowledge this when utilizing online gambling platforms.
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