It is not a hoax. It is not a rumor. Surfing the Internet has dangers : viruses, leaks, scams, theft ... Navigating between pages, making purchases online, either through your computer or from your mobile phone, involves many threats, but the truth is that there are many ways to do it safely . In addition, as an Internet user, you should know some keys that will help you to be more aware of the sites you go to and the content you download. The security company Aldama Informática Legal has just published a series of practical tips to help you feel more at ease when browsing online. The best antivirus, they indicate, are the users themselves . Here are 10 keys to surfing the Internet safely.
1. Become aware.
If you have been connecting to the Internet for years, you will know that the network of networks hides infinite dangers. If a short time ago, you should also know. It is not recommended to access pages of dubious origin, or download files whose origin you do not know . Don't forget more.
2. Install a good antivirus.
If you access the Internet through a computer, you should have an antivirus installed. Don't ignore the manufacturer's suggestions and renew the subscription when it has expired. It may be uncomfortable or cumbersome to pay 30 or 40 euros now , but we can assure you that it is an action that can save you more than one displeasure. You also have some free and reliable solutions like Avast . If you usually browse from an Android mobile , we would also recommend downloading an antivirus solution. G Data has some interesting products so that you are always protected from all the threats lurking out there.
3. Update your operating system.
This is the umpteenth time that your operating system has warned you that you should have installed that update. Whether you connect from your mobile or your computer , it would be good if you update your operating system often or at least authorize automatic updates. They usually bring important security patches to continue guaranteeing your safety on board. You will do it?
4. Do not download files whose origin you do not know.
If you are going to download applications, do it from the official store of your brand or operating system. If you want to download a free program , always do it from a reference website , because otherwise, you could download unwanted files and viruses or cause the dreaded spy bars to be installed in your browser.
5. Beware of email.
E-mail: another source of endless trouble . We are sure that in your email tray you already have a special tray for spam (this is the case in Gmail , for example), so that the system itself is responsible for separating potentially dangerous email. Despite that, a dangerous message always creeps in . Beware of recipients you don't know, false promises, emails about illegal drugs, and anything else that sounds strange to you. One tip: everything, everything, everything directly to the spam folder .
6. Avoid browsing sensitive sites through WiFi networks and public computers.
Do you want to check your bank account? Do you want to make a purchase? You already know that you can do it from anywhere, but the truth is that it would be best to do it at home and from your personal computer . If you browse from a public computer or connect from the hotel or internet cafe network, you could leave a trail and be the flesh of the most malicious cybercriminals . As a precaution, delicate things, at home.
7. Take a good look at the security certificates.
Just a few days ago, we told you that Google had decided to start marking insecure Spanish websites . This is important, because if you are going to carry out transactions online, you will have to make sure that the page you are making the transfer through has the security certificate. A good indicator is that you see https in the browser's URL .
8. Always log out.
If you access unsafe sites, it is best to always log out when leaving. This is a step that you should not neglect if you access a site (your email, for example) from a public computer or from another person. Also, if the site has this system, we would strongly recommend that you activate the double authentication system .
9. Be careful with the photos you upload to the web.
Did you know that your photos include a lot of additional information? All digital images include information that can reveal when or even where they were taken. Be that as it may, we would recommend that you exercise caution when uploading photos that may cause problems in the short or medium term.
10. Caution with geolocation.
The geolocation systems are very useful, but be careful with them. For example, if you are far from home, try deactivating these services so as not to leave an online trace of where you are . Do not give criminals clues about your whereabouts or your personal situation. It could be dangerous.
Do you follow all these tips together? Tell us how you protect yourself when you surf the Internet!