Opinion: On Safer Internet Day, 10 tips to prevent hacking

Cyber crimes are increasing and devices are becoming more vulnerable than ever before. But there are a few things that you can do all by yourself to stay digitally safe. On Safer Internet Day, we bring you some of those simple tips that can reduce your chances of being hacked.

Tip 1: Be cautious of who you share your phone with

It can take less than a minute for someone to hack into your phone. So, be a little careful when you give your phone to someone - in an emergency or in any other situation. Take it back if you find that someone is unnecessary fiddling with your phone. 

Tip 2: Don’t click on every link that you receive

We receive a lot of links on the WhatsApp, Facebook, or in emails. But don’t click on any link as you spot it. Hold on, and verify the link first. See if the link starts with https.

Tip 3: Never change your password on public wifi networks

Never change your password to online services on open wifi networks. Because this is one trick that hackers use to steal your online details. They come on the same wifi network and create a situation that you would be forced to generate a new password. And as you change your password, they get an access too. Also, we suggest you not to make online transactions on public wifis. 

Tip 4: Keep your phone light

Avoid sensitive information on your phone. Keep taking frequent backups of your data and keep removing the same from your phone. So God forbid, if someday a hacker broke into your phone, there would be fewer chances for him to steal your confidential data. 

Tip 5: Be wary of attachments in e-mails

Never download an attachment if you are not confident about it. Most of the times, your Gmail auto scans those attachments, but some viruses manage to bypass even those security measures. 

Tip 6: Disable mobile data if not in use

If your phone is always connected to the Internet, it increases chances for hackers to get through your phone and install an app remotely. So if your mobile data is not in use, we advise you to disable it. 

Tip 7: Read app permissions before downloading an app

Some of you may be in the habit of reading app permissions before downloading an app,  but a majority of smartphone users actually accept the permissions without giving it a read. We advise you to always read them so that you know what all developers are getting access to on your phone. If you find that you are not comfortable in sharing some details with a third party developer, take a call to not install that particular app. It’s better to not use an app than increasing your chances of falling for a cybercrime. 

Tip 8: Increase security layers on your phone

Lock code for your phone is fine but that provides you with only one level of security. And, therefore, you are advised to use app locks and protect apps that include sensitive information. 

Tip 9: Turn off Bluetooth when not in use

If the Bluetooth on your phone or laptop is not in use, turn it off. Because an always-on Bluetooth increases chances for hackers to break into your devices. 

Tip 10: Never install an app from unverified sources

If you want to download a new app, visit official app sources and install them from there. Avoid installations from unverified sources.

Security is never foolproof. But these simple tips can definitely help you protect better. 

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)