- by x32x01 ||
Last Christmas, online shoppers lost more than £13.5 million to cybercriminals, according to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau.
With more people shopping online due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, it’s never been more important to stay safe while enjoying those digital deals
So, let’s dive into 6 easy and effective ways to protect yourself from phishing, malware, and other cyber threats
Avoid weak passwords like “password” or your birthday 
- these are the first things hackers try!
Here’s how to create a solid password:
Pro Tip: A strong password = stronger protection! 
Password managers help you store all your passwords safely and easily across your devices.
Browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox now come with built-in password managers that sync automatically
But be careful! If your password manager is hacked, all your passwords could be exposed.
To keep it safe:
Adding 2FA gives your accounts a second layer of protection 
Even if a hacker knows your password, they can’t log in without the extra code sent to your phone or authentication app.
Most major platforms like Google, Apple, and Microsoft offer this option - don’t skip it!
Outdated software = easy target 
Cybercriminals love exploiting old security flaws. So when your device asks for an update, don’t hit “Later” - hit “Update Now”
Those updates fix vulnerabilities that hackers use to break into your system.
If your files get encrypted by malware or ransomware 
, backups will save you big time.
You can store backups using:
Tip: Always enable 2FA on your cloud storage account to keep it extra secure.
Cyber safety isn’t luck - it’s a habit 
Start now by using stronger passwords, updating your devices, and enabling 2FA.
Do that, and you’ll enjoy your holiday shopping stress-free and secure
With more people shopping online due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, it’s never been more important to stay safe while enjoying those digital deals
So, let’s dive into 6 easy and effective ways to protect yourself from phishing, malware, and other cyber threats
Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Avoid weak passwords like “password” or your birthday - these are the first things hackers try!Here’s how to create a solid password:
- Make it long - at least 15 characters.
Mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
Avoid common substitutions like NAME1337 or PASSW0RD.
Pro Tip: A strong password = stronger protection! 
Save Passwords Securely in Your Browser 
Password managers help you store all your passwords safely and easily across your devices.Browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox now come with built-in password managers that sync automatically
But be careful! If your password manager is hacked, all your passwords could be exposed.To keep it safe:
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your password manager.- Keep the app updated regularly.
Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) 
Adding 2FA gives your accounts a second layer of protection Even if a hacker knows your password, they can’t log in without the extra code sent to your phone or authentication app.
Most major platforms like Google, Apple, and Microsoft offer this option - don’t skip it!
Keep Your Devices Updated
Outdated software = easy target Cybercriminals love exploiting old security flaws. So when your device asks for an update, don’t hit “Later” - hit “Update Now”
Those updates fix vulnerabilities that hackers use to break into your system.
Back Up Your Data 
If your files get encrypted by malware or ransomware , backups will save you big time.You can store backups using:
External drives for local storage- Cloud storage for access anywhere
Tip: Always enable 2FA on your cloud storage account to keep it extra secure. Final Thoughts
Cyber safety isn’t luck - it’s a habit Start now by using stronger passwords, updating your devices, and enabling 2FA.
Do that, and you’ll enjoy your holiday shopping stress-free and secure
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