Nothing poses a bigger risk to business owners than the possibility of a data breach. Today, it is still prevalent. With the advancement in technology, that risk has only increased in the financial services industry lately.
Every action you perform has the potential to jeopardize your online reputation, whether it be login into a bank account, sending out an email to a colleague, or posting a picture on social media. Identity theft has become a major problem in recent years, in part because of how little attention people pay to cyber security.
The good news is that it’s not that difficult to avoid issues. Seven methods to safeguard your online identity are listed below.
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Use Two-Factor Authentication
With two-factor authentication, you must use two different forms of identification to log in or confirm a transaction. These forms of identification should ideally include something you know (a password, PIN code, or passphrase), something you have (a physical token, USB key, or your mobile device), and something that you are (thumbprint, facial recognition).
The good news is that two-factor authentication is now extensively used. Examples are disconnected tokens, USB drive tokens, SMS one-time passwords, emails, printable one-time passwords, national Identity cards, and mobile authenticator apps.
Make Use of a Password Manager
Passwords create a false sense of security for people seeking to protect their data. Access to all of your activities is through your primary email. A hacker who gains access to your mailbox can pose as you or change passwords on other websites, where they can steal money or do other terrible things. Luckily, now you can use a secure password manager, which will help you come up with a unique password and significantly reduce your chances of getting hacked.
Even if you currently utilize password managers, there is a good chance that you have reused passwords over the years and on several different websites. Therefore, if you have never checked it, we also advise you to do so.
Think Twice Before Clicking on Posts and Ads
Consider that it is the time of day when you browse your social media. “Are remote employees more efficient?” is a fancy poll that someone you follow shared on their profile. Moreover, it sounds quite intriguing. Wait. Take a moment more before clicking. Take a moment to consider whether playing that game is worthwhile. Will this reveal private information about me or my business?
On a different day, you get an email from a provider you use (e-book subscription, Customer relationship management, etc.) asking you to log in, examine fresh deals, and read the blog. Spend an extra second verifying whether the website is legitimate or a scam.
It is advised that you examine the website’s certificate and the legitimacy of the service provider using your web browser. Better yet, refrain from clicking on unfamiliar or odd content online.
Never Trust Anyone Who Calls You To Be Who They Claim To Be
Certain consumers had the misconception that speaking with the bank on the phone was a required and safe practice because it used to be typical for banks to call you to check personal information or even confirm a transaction.
But now that times have changed, fraudsters might call you and demand your pin code, password, or other vital information like your social security number. They can also request that you change your password. Never believe anyone who phones you, claiming to be from the bank, or tells you that you won something in a lucky draw you didn’t enter.
Instead, request a phone number so you may contact them back, then confirm the number’s validity on the bank’s website or in a reliable directory (like the Yellow Pages). The same rule applies to emails; if you get one urging you to change your password, don’t.
Back-up Password
A hacker uses a SIM swap hack to trick your mobile provider into thinking you wish to switch your SIM card for your mobile plan. You may accomplish this by explicitly calling your mobile operator, convincing the customer support representative that it is you, and then telling them that you wish to switch your SIM card subscription during the conversation. If it is successful, the attacker will have control of a phone using your mobile number to call, send, and receive text messages on your behalf, while your actual phone will be completely cut off from the mobile network.
You should speak with your phone operator and set a supplementary PIN code that safeguards your subscription to avert this calamity. In some nations, your social security number’s final four digits serve as your default PIN.
Demand That Services Enable You To Digitally Sign Papers
There are no longer any justifications for printing the document, signing with a pen, and then scanning again when you need to send the signed document. Online document signing technologies are now simpler and more user-friendly than ever. Digital signatures have advanced to a high level of security. Despite this, only a minority of corporate and public organizations have adopted this new paradigm so far. Speak with your service providers and insist on being able to sign documents electronically.
Be Careful When Inputting Personal Information
Online services today are aware that the more information they gather about you, the greater the opportunity to profit from it. So be cautious about where and when you share information. For instance, don’t let online stores save your credit card information. Consider who you can trust and how much you value your capacity to do so in your digital life. It is advised that you utilize websites that request less personal information from you or those with a more established, reliable relationship with you.
Online identity protection is crucial, especially for businesses. Securing your personal information and data from cybercriminals is crucial in managing your time online as more and more of our daily lives are conducted online. You stand a far greater chance of protecting your identity online if you stick to these ten recommendations.
