We all know that we shouldn’t use the same password for all our accounts or share our login information with others, but so much of our lives nowadays are spent online that it’s easy to develop some other bad habits that may be putting you at risk.
Everything we do, say or post online has the potential of being seen by hundreds if not thousands of people, and while the majority of those eyes are likely harmless, if your personal info gets in front of the wrong person, it could cost you your privacy, money and countless headaches.
Below are 4 less-common mistakes that you may be making online that are putting you at risk.
1. Saving your personal information
Many sites, such as online stores, credit cards and even banking sites, give you the option of saving your personal information for quicker login, transactions or purchases. But, despite the added convenience, anytime you save your personal data online you’re putting yourself at risk. Instead of saving your login information and maybe even your credit card number, opt to enter it yourself each time. Sure, it takes a few extra minutes, but it could save you thousands in fraudulent charges!
2. Using public Wi-Fi
Sure, it’s convenient and seems harmless enough, but any time you use public Wi-Fi you’re opening yourself up to potential hacking. Instead of compromising your personal data, avoid banking, accessing your credit cards or shopping online while connected to a public network.
3. Using your debit card for online purchases
When you use your debit card, you’re giving hackers access to your personal bank account. Instead of opening yourself up to the headache of trying to recoup your money after an online breach, protect yourself my designating one credit card with a low-limit for all your online purchases. That way, if it becomes compromised, you know exactly where to look and can easily remedy the issue.
4. Clicking links in emails
You should never, ever click a link or open an attachment in an email from an unknown or suspicious sender. Malicious links and downloads find their way into our inboxes all the time, but if you’re alert, you won’t become a victim of whatever virus is being spread. However, sometimes these links can even come from familiar email addresses, but that doesn’t mean they should be trusted. If you suspect a link might put you at risk, don’t open it — even if it came from a friend. Instead, respond to the email and ask if they truly meant to send it.
To further protect your data, personal info and privacy, consider using a VPN service. For more information about how a VPN can protect you online, visit www.GhostPath.com.