This time of the end of the year and the beginning of the new one is a period where we make a lot of purchases. Some are about a whim that we give ourselves but many others are also Christmas gifts for family and friends. Cybercriminals have these dates marked on their calendar as a special event that can bring them great benefits. Thus, the latter carry out a series of attacks and campaigns to try to deceive us. For this reason, we must take a series of precautions so as not to become their victims. In this article we are going to offer a series of tips to improve security at Christmas and that will also serve us for the rest of the year.
2FA authentication, key manager and updates
One of the most important factors that can help contribute to improving security is that we activate the authentication in two factors or 2FA. If we do this, it will change the way we log into our accounts. Now, in addition to having to enter our password, we are going to have to carry out a second step, which may be to enter a code that we can view in an app on our phone. In the event that a cybercriminal obtained our password, they would not be able to log in because that second step is missing.
On the other hand, it would be a good idea to use a password manager that helps us store them and also that when creating them they are robust. Some examples that we could use are Password Manager Lite for Windows and Passwarden. It is also very important to use a different password for each account and not to use any password at all.
We also need to take care of the software update. In this aspect we must take care of having the operating system and its applications updated. If we don’t, cybercriminals can exploit security flaws.
Improve mobile device security
In this aspect, to improve security, it is convenient to review the security of the lock screen. So we must count if it is available with biometric security such as the fingerprint, especially in public transport and crowded places. Keep in mind that some criminal could be watching us. Failing that, a PIN would be better in this order and if not a pattern.
Also a good practice is to have the built-in feature enabled to track the device in case of loss or theft. In this regard, both devices with Apple’s iOS operating system and Google’s with Android have this option.
Another good thing can be to uninstall apps with a lack of support and that we do not use. One of the advantages we have is that we gain storage space and prevent them from collecting data about us. Also, if it is a fraudulent application that we have installed believing that it was safe, it can compromise our security.
A good tip to improve security is not to open links in SMS messages or emails about delivery confirmations of orders or prizes. The best we can do is check the status of the orders or the information from the website itself or from its official mobile app.
Protect your router and your online purchases
In this section, it is convenient to change the access passwords that our router has by default. As for the Wi-Fi network, we should consider periodically changing the Wi-Fi key. In addition, if you allow it, it is convenient to activate the guest mode of the Wi-Fi network. In this way, our devices will remain on the network independently of the devices that connect to the guest Wi-Fi network.
Also to improve security in our online purchases we must pay attention to the URL. The stores where we buy and the sites where we register must start with https and have the padlock symbol. This guarantees that the connections between our PC or smartphone and the store is secure, however, it does not mean that the website is legitimate, it could perfectly well be a scam but it uses https to provide “security”.
Tips regarding accounts and security
A good practice is to keep the recovery information of our accounts updated. For example, having a second email account and a phone number to be able to retrieve it again if necessary. In addition, it is worth reviewing the privacy options of our social network account and others.
On the other hand, another way to improve security is to use a VPN since it will provide us with security and anonymity. Preferably it is paid and it is essential that we use them on public Wi-Fi networks. In addition, we must worry about:
- Secure our webcam if we have one.
- Protect our payment accounts such as Paypal.
- Review accounts that start automatically.
- Be aware of identity fraud and other scams.
- Run antivirus and anti malware programs.
Finally, to improve security, we must make a backup copy of the most important files in case we are victims of a ransomware attack or a hardware failure.
