Identity Protection while using Internet (include PDF)

You are probably using the Internet all the time. You check your email, see your Facebook updates, and maybe tweet a quick thought or two. Have you ever thought about Identity Protection while using Internet?

What is the identity?

It is also known as Online identity, which means online personality our internet persona such as your name, number, photo, etc. It is a social identity that is used on various social media platforms.

It may be determined by the user’s relationship to a certain social group they are a part of online.

why the need for identity protection?

Identity protection is the measure that helps to safeguard your personal data.

It can be missed by the other person such as cyber criminals. It is a proactive approach to data being compromised.

Identity theft can have severe consequences, including financial loss, and damage to your credit score.

Importance of identity protection while using Internet

1. The first main reason to safeguard your online data or privacy. Why is it so important: Because online hacking, stealing, and online theft increase day by day. so it is necessary to protect your online details.

Why data is so important on the Internet?

Data or personal data is so important because it is used to access websites, social media, online banking, and many more. If personal data is compromised, attackers can use your data illegally. In most cases, they used to steal your personal things.

2. Identity is the key to accessing online resources such as website login, accounts, and services. If your data is compromised, attackers abuse user’s privileges.
3. Identity is the basis for reputation in online networks. It can damage their relationship with others.
4. Identity is the source of personal information, such as name, date of birth, address, phone number, etc. If identity is exposed, users can face identity theft, fraud, harassment, and other risks.
   Therefore, it is essential to protect identity online

Risks of using the Internet without identity protection

Here is the list of risks associated with identity protection

1. Identity Theft

This is when attackers steal your personal info and use it for crimes. It is used to commit fraud with your name. For example- They open an online account with your name and number, apply for loans, or do online shopping by using your card details.

2. Credit Card Fraud

One of the most common fraud is credit card fraud making payments without your consent. Fraudsters routinely steal account numbers and passwords while you conduct your normal online computing.

3. Phishing Scams

• Many junk emails are blocked by Google’s Gmail and Outlook email but some email is designed to bypass this. It seems legitimate but carries a phishing link inside the email.
• For example, Verify your SBI account, and Verify your Trusy wallet account are some examples of phishing emails.

4. Malware Infections

• This is when someone installs harmful software or applications on your devices. Sometimes free MOD APK, cracked Windows software comes with malware.
• For example, they may use spyware to monitor your online activity, keystroke loggers to capture your passwords, or ransomware to encrypt your files.

5. Cyberbullying and harassment

This is when someone uses the internet to target you with abusive or threatening messages, images, or videos. For example, they may spread rumors, and post false information.

Top 10 ways to protect your identity online with pros

1. Create strong passwords

• A strong password is the best way to save your online account. it keeps your personal data safe and secure from cybercriminals, hackers, and malicious software.
• It is known as a first-line defense against unauthorized access to your account.

Here are some benefits:

1. Prevents unauthorized access
2. Protects against brute-force attacks
3. Reduces the risk of identity theft
4. Increases security of online accounts

2. Install Security Software

• Also known as Antivirus. Many antivirus are available for free on Android, Windows, or MAC.
• It helps you to keep safe and secure online by clicking third-party trackers, attackers, and cybercriminals.
• Look for Encryption

3. Avoid Phishing Scams

• Don’t click any link that is attacked in emails. Phishing scams are usually done by emails, messages, and pop-ups on various websites.

4. Get Private Data Protection

• Private data protection is a service that helps you to keep your data safe and secure.
• It keeps monitoring your data information like credit cards, debit cards, and security numbers and also checks if your password gets leaked on the web.

5. Look for HTTPS encryption websites

Before making financial transactions online, look sign HTTPS before the domain name of a website. Unsecure websites do not https encryption so before making an online transaction check whether the website is secure or not.

6. Turn on Web Browser Blacklisting

• The web browser has many features to prevent online hacking. Web browser Blacklististing blocks access to unknown websites.
• It helps to block unsafe website that is known to be malicious or fraudulent.

7. Use 2FA Method

• Also known as Two-Factor Authentication. It means when you log in to your account, besides of password one more authentication is required before signing.
• For Example- A one-time password on a mobile number is an example of Two-Factor Authentication.

8. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

• A VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, making it difficult for hackers to track your online activities or steal your personal information.
• Pros: It provides an additional layer of security when using public Wi-Fi networks or accessing sensitive information online.
• Cons: It can slow down your internet connection

9. Share online with careful

• Be mindful of what you share online, especially on social media sites and networks.
• t can make it easier for cybercriminals to steal your identity or commit fraud.

10. Keep up to date software

• Many vulnerabilities come with switching an application or software. SO software companies released new versions to remove these vulnerabilities.
• Hackers use these vulnerabilities for identity theft.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi

• Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can expose users to potential security risks.
• Cybercriminals can intercept data transmitted over these networks.
• Public wifi is free but never be safe. Your data can be collected from the Public WI-FI if used by the hackers. To ensure safety in Public WI-FI, use VPN software or Apps

Learn how to identify and avoid phishing scams

1. The first step is to check the sender?s email address.
2. Scammers often use fake email addresses that are similar to legitimate ones. Check the sender?s email address carefully to ensure that it is legitimate.
3. Do not click on any link. Open the VIRUSTOTAL website and check whether the link is safe or not.
4. Use antivirus software that has the capability to block this kind of email and messages.

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