How to Protect Data from Hackers and Data Thieves

Cybersecurity should concern you, whether you own a business or not. The mere fact that you are an active user of the internet makes you a target for hackers. Different hackers are after different things, but regardless of their agenda, their common goal is to sabotage your data so they can achieve their other plans.

Data loss can have substantial consequences for anyone, compromising the security of your family, and any close ties you may have. Instead of ignoring data security and hoping hackers don’t get to you, you can take an active role in preventing hackers and data thieves from getting to you. Here are several ways you can accomplish this:

Use strong passwords

It cannot be emphasized enough the power of a strong password. Everyone, at one point or the other, has to use a password to restrict access to their files, devices and accounts. If so, then why use a simple password that is easy to crack? Create a password that makes it difficult for data thieves to access your information. Here is a guide on coming up with the best password:

  • Avoid common names – including dictionary words and names of family, friends of things you love
  • Mix up the characters – to include letters, numbers and symbols
  • Keep them random – while avoiding sequential characters, whether numbers or letters
  • Keep them long – at least 8 characters
  • Use mixed cases – both uppercase and lowercase
  • Use different passwords for different accounts

Encrypt sensitive data

A password will not be enough when it comes to securing very sensitive information. Since you can add an extra layer of protection to your files, then, by all means, do so. An encryption code secures your information while in storage, so that no one can access the data without decrypting it.

Hide your IP address

You may never understand why people use private proxies unless your internet connectivity is interrupted and you can no longer access your data like you want to. Change the default settings of your IP address to make sure that people cannot see your IP address externally, which considerably reduces the chances of hackers and data thieves getting through to your network.

Restrict access

Human is to error. Since that is the case, then anyone can be responsible for letting the data thieves in on your data, whether by accident or intentional. Instead of taking the chance, consider restricting access. This means limiting the number of people who can access your data. In a business set-up, make sure people only access the amount of data that would be needful for them to perform their tasks. As an individual, limit the number of people who have your passwords and encryption codes and can easily access your information.

Use an antimalware software

Software is one of the easiest way for hackers to get through to your network. Any kind of malware, including a virus, worm, Trojan horse or ransomware, can compromise the safety of your information. With an antimalware software, your guard is always up, with notifications of when there is a threat that lurks within your network.

Use a firewall

While on the issues of preventing danger from getting through your network, you need a gate that hackers cannot easily bypass. An antimalware will be useful in notifying you of any infection, but a firewall will prevent any suspicious file from getting into your system and compromising your security. Technically, any attempts to bridge your network security is stopped by the firewall even before it gets to you. Luckily, most devices today come with a pre-installed firewall. However, make sure it is activated and functional so as to secure your data.

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Sonia Simone

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