Logical Ways to Protect Your Data

Posted on: Jan 17, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Logical Ways to Protect Your Data

Cyber crimes are on the rise, which is precisely why more people are getting serious about cyber insurance these days. Even when you think you have protected your data properly, fraudsters find new ways to dupe you, and your data is always at risk of getting leaked. While insurance is a great way to stay safe, you can also follow some easy tips and keep your data protected at all times. Read on to know more.

1. Change your password often.

This goes without saying, but you need to change your password often. While you may have different password-protected accounts, ensure you change the passwords of your important accounts, such as your banking app, primary email account, social media accounts, etc. Passwords getting compromised is one of the biggest reasons for cyber fraud and why most cybersecurity insurance claims are made. So, change the passwords often and stay safe.

2. Use passphrases instead of passwords.

This is a new technique many people are adapting these days. Rather than setting a complicated password (often forgotten), people are now opting for a cryptic phrase as a password, such as the3m0unta1nwas3gr33n (the mountain was green). Remember not to set anything personal as the attackers always try to decode the details related to your private life and then hack your account. So choose a random, cryptic phrase and use it as your account password.

3. Keep social media private.

It may be tempting to keep your social media account public to get more likes and shares, but this is actually a very dangerous thing to do. It is especially important if you have information or pictures about your private life and your family on your social media accounts. Cyber attackers scan these accounts to get clues and hints about your life, preferences, and choices and then attack you so that you don't even understand you are under threat. While getting cyber insurance is a great idea, keeping your social media privacy is also a winning move.

4. Never save sensitive information.

You may be prompted by the app you use to save the credit card details for faster checkout next time. Never do this. Saving important and sensitive data, such as your credit card details, can be catastrophic as hackers can creep into your account and steal the information you saved. It is better to enter the details each time and have a two-step verification process set up for additional safety.

5. Don't be too open about your life.

Just like your financial information can be compromised, hackers can use your personal details like your name, date of birth, and address to get sensitive information about you. This is why you must avoid using your personal details too openly online. Do not post your birthday and other personal details freely. Do not share these details with strangers with whom you may be chatting online. You never know who is on the other side of the screen, so exercise caution at all times. If a fraudster has important personal details, he can hack your phone or account and get access to your OTPs, etc.

6. Be careful of phishing sites.

Several phishing sites these days are nothing but traps set up by cybercriminals. You must be very careful when visiting any new or unknown site, as clicking on a trap can lead to instant losses. Phishing sites are common in the online shopping world. If you are a fan of online shopping, get cyber insurance for shoppersand stay protected. Also, always opt for a cash-on-delivery option if you are shopping from a new or unknown online store. This reduces the chance of fraud and gives you better cyber security as well.

7. Do not click randomly.

Just like you would caution before visiting an unknown website, you should also be careful about clicking on any random links. Whether they are clickbait or a pop-up, refrain from clicking, as you need to know what lies behind the link. Clicking on a random link may take you to a phishing website from where all your data may get leaked. Hence, be careful and do not follow any link or pop-up, no matter how attractive it looks.

8. Always have a proper backup.

It is highly advisable for you to have a data-backup system so that you can access your data in case your device is hacked, and the data is blocked. However, be very mindful of where you are storing the data and who else has access to it. You need to use a good and reliable cloud backup system, which is always safe. Some apps have an auto-backup system where all the data gets automatically backed up on their servers. Disable all such auto backup options, as you can't determine who has access to those servers and how your data would be used when stored there.

9. Be bold to report and block.

Be quick to report any suspicious website or link that you find. The same holds true for messages and emails that make strange claims and promises. Don't be shy in reporting such cyber activities, as your action can help protect your data and the data of other users who may be soft targets. Almost all the leading websites have their own security teams who look into suspected activity reports. Also, if you face a direct attack, report the matter to the nearest cyber crime cell or visit your local police station. Never let go of such matters, as that will only strengthen cyber criminals and allow them to attack more people.

10. Use secured WiFi.

Remember to use a secure wifi connection at all times, especially when you are using public wifi. It is common to use the Wi-Fi of a cafe or a hotel you visit, but be cautious. If the wifi is not secured, it can lead to a data breach, and you may get your precious and sensitive information leaked. Using your mobile data rather than unsafe wifi is better to reduce the chance of a cyber attack.

The bottom line

Listed above are some handy ways in which you can protect your data. Getting a good cyber insurance plan is definitely the first step, but following the points mentioned above also helps. So be smart and wise when using the internet and your devices, and you should be able to protect your data safely.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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