Nowadays, we essentially live online. This means that it’s crucial that we take our online safety and security seriously if we want to avoid being scammed, hacked, stalked, or affected by any other common online threats.

In both your professional and personal life, there are certain precautions you can take when it comes to being online and managing your online presence. Here are some things you can think about to keep yourself online in 2023 and beyond.

Understand Online Threats

First of all, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what’s out there and what could happen in various circumstances. Knowing the risks of the online world will help you better understand how and when to implement cybersecurity tactics.

Consider everything from malware and viruses to identity theft and cyberbullying. If you have a family, make sure that everyone (even the youngest) understands the dangers of the internet so you can all learn how to protect yourselves. Do your research and don’t be caught unawares.

Use Protective Tools

In your research, you’ll find that there are (thankfully) countless tools and tricks we can now use to protect ourselves.

First of all, make sure that you have a good antivirus software installed on your computer or laptop, especially if you use it for work. Make use of add blockers, and check out this DeleteMe review to find out how to have your data removed from search engines.

When you’re using unprotected networks, make sure you’re connected to a VPN, and if you have kids, use an app that allows you to track and control what they can and can’t do online. These tools, amongst the many other options out there, will help protect you and offer you peace of mind too.

Strengthen Your Passwords

Seriously – Letmein123 is not going to cut it anymore. Hackers are getting better and better at taking over people’s social media and other accounts for their own personal gain, and we need to get serious about protecting all of our accounts.

First of all, make sure that you’re not using the exact same password for every online account you ever create. Yes, this makes it easy to remember, but it also means that once someone has hacked one account they have access to everything! Use a password vault to remember all your different accounts, and learn how to create strong password for each.

Mind Your Communication

Finally, be careful of who you communicate with online and how. The internet is a great way to connect with people across the world, keep in touch with friends, and even connect with new people. However, you need to consider the effects of putting yourself out there on dating apps, and even just social media in general.

Identity theft, catfishing, cyberbullying, etc. are all very real threats, and you need to act with a little caution when you’re chatting to people online. Enjoy your connections, but trust your gut instincts when something doesn’t feel right.