Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsIt seems like there’s a major cyber attack happening every week. And it’s not only huge companies or celebrities being targeted. Average internet users (just like you) are vulnerable to getting hacked every time they go online. But if you take steps to protect yourself, your chances of being the next victim will drop substantially.
Update your software
Hackers constantly look for vulnerabilities. Whether it’s operating systems or other popular software people use, a slight security flaw is all that hackers need.
Fortunately for you, hackers aren’t the only ones who look for these vulnerabilities. Ethical hackers and software engineers are also always on the lookout for vulnerabilities in their products.
When a vulnerability is detected, developers work on updates to fix all known exploits. The hacking attack surface becomes smaller once these updates are installed, leaving little room for hackers to find a way in.
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Use a password manager
A password manager is software that stores and manages your account passwords. Its main value is that it makes it much easier to have strong passwords, as you don’t have to remember them.
Setting strong passwords for all accounts is essential for your online security. Hackers can use advanced tools to orchestrate brute force attacks. If you have a weak or easy-to-guess password, your chances of getting hacked are significantly higher.
If you use a password manager, you can automatically generate strong passwords and store them securely within the software.
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Be mindful of what you click on and download
Whenever you’re online, you’re surrounded by ads and pop-ups, many of which may be scams that may infect your device with malware as soon as you click on them. That means you should be careful and think twice before clicking on anything.
Avoid websites that display too many ads. Even if the website is legitimate, the ads may still be malicious.
Emails are particularly dangerous. Before you click or download anything from an email, verify that you know the sender and that they are who they claim to be.
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- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Install a VPN
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is software that protects your online identity and activity. It does so by:
- Masking your IP address
- Encrypting all internet traffic from and to your device
A VPN allows you to browse the web anonymously. When using public, unprotected networks, a VPN will encrypt your activity by routing it through secure servers far away from you.
VPNs cost money, but they’re generally very cheap, and they’ll be worth the investment for most people.
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- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key NFC via USB-A and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Keep your accounts secured
The average internet user has dozens of online accounts. Aside from protecting them with strong passwords, there are a few other things you can do to bolster the security of your accounts.
First, enable two-factor authentication. 2FA will ask for an additional input (factor) to ensure the person trying to log in is you. The second input could be a fingerprint, security question, or code.
You should also explore the built-in security features of your most important accounts. You can usually find a security tab in the settings of any app. You may find the option of adding an additional email address, logging out of all devices that you no longer use, and many more.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Shopping ad
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 is a versatile physical passkey that protects your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 via USB and tap it to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Final thoughts
Hacking is a hot topic right now. Everyone from large corporations to everyday internet users is a target. But, with a few minor adjustments, the average internet user can significantly reduce the risk of getting hacked.
Follow the tips mentioned in this article, and be on the lookout for any developments regarding internet security.
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