BY SEGUN OLUWALANA
According to an article by CNBC, cybercrimes are projected to jump by about 40 percent, the article also went ahead to state that in 2016 alone, they were 1,093 breaches, exposing, 36,601,939 records. Considering these statistics, we would like to suggest how best you can protect yourself from hackers.
1. GUARD IMPORTANT DATA
Giving out the barest minimum of data is advisable, be careful not to share your BVN number with any company except it is required. Also, remember to use only one ATM card for all online purchases as it saves your other data from a breach.
2. USE ALPHANUMERIC PASSWORDS
It is advisable to use a combination of letters, numerals and symbols for passwords to make it harder for hackers to guess. Endeavour to also use a different password/pin for all your accounts, criminals may have breached a previous account in hopes that they can try it on other accounts.
3. DON’T USE OPEN WI-FI IN PUBLIC PLACES
Hackers create rogue WI-FI’s with similar names to local businesses and then assess data, it is better to stick with a trusted network, e.g. your cellular network, in a public place… better safe than sorry. To keep your work as confidential as possible, work in an enclosed corner to avoid shoulder surfers.
4. KEEP TABS ON YOUR ACCOUNT
Monitor your financial statements by reading every text and mail sent by your bank and report any illegal findings done to your account.
5. SECURE YOUR DEVICE
Regularly update your operating systems on your electronic devices. Be careful to not automatically log in or save passwords if you are not the only one using the device.
6. BOOST ACCOUNT SECURITY
Enable the two-step verification process where applicable. This protection requires users trying to log into accounts to also enter a code for confirmation purposes.
