Devices security means that you can access, store, or share data safely using your smartphone, computer, or another device. Unfortunately, for many people, this is not the case. No doubt, many people have access to digital devices such as gaming systems, tablets, smart TVs, and other wearable devices that rely on internet connection. These gadgets have little or no security measures in place. This means that in the event of an intrusion, all the data contained therein would be exposed. Think about what can happen should a third party has access to, let’s say your WhatsApp conversations.
Antiviruses alone cannot get the job done
Many internet users over-rely on antiviruses to protect their devices. Many are boasting in the false sense of security. While antiviruses are still essential tools, you need additional measures to provide maximum protection against modern-day threats. Attackers have redesigned their tricks. Unlike there before, today hackers and cybercriminals use sophisticated systems to attack their prey.
3 cyber risks to be watchful of in 2023
1. IoT attacks
We have embraced IoT and related smart devices. We now have more convenient ways of working at the office, smarter ways to control appliances at home, better ways to manage factories, and so on. This collection of devices relies on internet connections to monitor and operate. An interruption on the network grants an attacker access to a device. They can alter the network’s operations and access data without a user’s content. To be safe, you must lock all the potential vulnerabilities within a network.
To keep your IoT devices safe, you need more security solutions. You cannot rely on antivirus for network security.
2. Unsecured Networks
Free WIFI connections are thrilling. While at your favourite eating spot, you probably enquire about the availability of free Wi-Fi before looking at the day’s menu. While this might feel like a superb alternative when you are on a low data plan, shared networks expose your devices to immeasurable vulnerabilities.
Public WIFI connections are breeding holes for spies and snoopers. They can spy on your online activities or steal your private information from the sites you are visiting while on the unsecured networks.
3. Phishing attacks
Thanks to technology and portable IoT devices, you can now access your email conversations in time. While this is an effective way of remaining productive even when on the go, it is also an avenue for malicious scams which are spread through phishing emails.
A phishing email has malicious files or links. When you click on a phishing link, it redirects you to fraudulent sites or download spyware programs to your device. And because you can access emails from wherever hackers have an easy way of sending malware into your network in real-time.
5 Security tools that will protect your privacy
Antiviruses are still essential, however, it’s protection does not encompass today’s digital threats. For better protection, you need additional security tools. Here are 5 such tools that will help you protect yourself.
1. Use a Virtual private network
The best way to keep off spies, snoopers, and other third parties from accessing your internet traffic is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) app. This security tool provides a private network over any internet connection such as your home network, a shared network, and free Wi-Fi networks.
2. Use an ad blocker
You may have noticed some luring or irrelevant ads that keep popping up on your active web pages. These popup ads are paths that are used by cybercriminals to post malicious spyware on your device. Unfortunately, you may click on these ads unintentionally. To avoid such a scenario, use an ad blocker to bar such ads from appearing on your webpages.
3. Use an anti-malware
You can also install an anti-malware to protect yourself from malicious software. Antimalware programs are designed to detect, block and delete malicious programs whenever an installation is attempted on your device.
4. User authentication
Enable as many authentication processes as possible. For instance, you may turn on the two-factor authentication process which allows you to set up a means of identification before allowing any access to your account.
5. Ensure email security
To protect yourself from phishing attacks, you can use email security tools. These tools inspect and monitor the incoming and outgoing threads for any potential threats. Incoming emails are highly scrutinized lest there are any malicious links or attachments.
An email security tool scans and blocks all the possible threats that may be detected in email correspondences. There you have it. The above tools, together with an antivirus will help improve your device security.
Also read: 6 Sites That Let You Check If a Link Is Safe