Data breaches, widespread malware , and unfair personalized advertising marked the digital world in 2018.
As technologies change, experts provide new insights on how you can stay safe. As 2019 begins, there are a number of simple steps you can take to keep your digital life safe and free from misinformation.
- Set your boundaries and stick to them
The best way to stay safe is to set your own boundaries. Decide for yourself, and in advance, what data you are willing to share with apps and online services, and stick to those boundaries.
That way, when the latest new app asks for permission that goes beyond what you’re willing to share, you’ll be more prepared to respond. Also, set limits on the online conversations you’re willing to engage in. Walk away from a conversation that’s hurting you more than helping you. It’s also helpful to set limits on how much time you’re willing to spend on your digital security—which can be a never-ending task.
- Get out of the trap of your filters
People who get their information primarily, or even exclusively, from social media essentially see what the various algorithms decide to display to each user.
Because of the way these algorithms work, these people are likely to only see articles from news sources they have stated they like and tend to agree with. This isolation from people with other opinions and from evidence that might challenge particular perspectives contributes to unprecedented levels of partisanship and dissent in modern society.
By visiting other sites that may not be among those you have liked, you gain a more holistic view of events and have more comprehensive information.
- Manage your passwords
The biggest threat to password security is no longer their strength, but the fact that many people reuse the same passwords for all or many of their accounts. Researchers send alerts to let you know when one of these reused passwords has been leaked, but it's safer to use different passwords, especially for your most valuable accounts.
You can use password management software. Or go the old-fashioned way, writing your passwords down on paper. Believe it or not, writing down a password is much more secure than using the same password everywhere. Of course, this is only true if you’re sure that the people you live with or your frequent visitors won’t try to get into your accounts.
- Enable multi-factor authentication
Adding an extra step to log in to your most important social media, email, and financial accounts can make a big difference in protection. Multi-factor authentication systems are known for sending a six-digit code via text message that you can type in as part of the login process. While any multi-factor authentication is better than none, text messages can be easily intercepted. An even more secure route is to use a dedicated code generator app on your phone.
People who frequently change phones or SIM cards, or who want additional protection, can also use a physical key, which is connected to the computer to enable the connection.
- Delete apps you don't use
Smartphone apps track your location and share its data with advertising and marketing companies.
Simply carrying a cell phone in your pocket can give surveillance companies information about where you go and how long you stay there, and the technical details about your phone can offer clues to your identity.
If you no longer use an app, uninstall it from your phone. If you need it again, you can always install it again.
- Keep the apps you use updated
Software companies don't always know about all the vulnerabilities in their programs – and when they release updates, users don't always know whether they're fixing a major problem or something minor. The top advice from experts is to keep your software up to date on your computers and mobile devices.
Let's hope that 2019 will prove to be a safer year for digital security!
