A lot of people around the world think they are browsing the internet in the safest manner possible. It is if they really think about it because there is an issue with this notion. The internet has become more deadly and countless threats are still lurking around in the digital space. They are looking for new ways to compromise users’ devices (computers, laptops, phones, etc.).
Successful cyber-attacks indicate that they have done serious damage to user devices. This is the reason why everyone should carefully browse the internet, and no one should let it be a dangerous place for them. Let us now read more to help counter the threats lurking online and prevent users from being attacked on the internet and put an end to dangerous threats online.
Online safety is of high importance
Without much doubt, the internet has transformed the way humanity lives its life. However, it is also putting users at the mercy of threats like viruses, trojans, spam, identity theft, scams, threats, clickbait, invasion of privacy and online espionage. This is why online safety is of high importance.
Internet safety is basically users having reasonable knowledge about the nature of potential threats they could face when they are online. It is hence high time they put a good focus on digital life’s positive facets of online browsing.
In what ways can users browse the internet safely? – handy tips they should always remember
As good as the internet looks, it is quite a dangerous place. Here are some handy tips that can help protect users against all kinds of online threats:
Updating web browsers on time
Outdated web browsers give an open invitation to viruses that hurt and compromise systems. Browser updates have in-built countermeasures which counter these viruses. Security measures have helped users get off insecure sites and get to safety. Ignoring browser updates is disastrous as user information can be at the mercy of hackers.
Websites without HTTPS should be avoided at all costs
When parents tell their kids not to go to a certain neighborhood because of crime and gangs, they are right. HTTP stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol, and HTTP websites today are not encrypted and also not secure.
HTTPS is far superior and better because it uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and HTTPS meaning HTTP but with more security. Such mechanisms and certification processes help encrypt information, and keep those nosy hackers out of the way. This keeps users a peace of mind.
Users must be sure of themselves that the website they are visiting is secure. They should see the left side of the browser address bar. If the lock sign is grey and okay then the connection is secure. In case it goes red with an exclamation mark (or a danger sign) then it means abandon ship.
They should be careful when downloading files
As they say download files from authentic and trusted sources, then they really meant downloading files from authentic and trusted sources. Downloading files from untrustworthy and tainted sources can turn the computer system into a vault accessed by thieves.
Moreover, many files disguised as movies, songs, and games are actually trojans, worms, malware, and viruses that ship ransomware and give users a harsh time. DDoS Protection Services providers regularly advise clients about it.
Removing browser cookies from time to time
Internet users browse daily. In fact, everyone browses daily and browsing is now a daily activity. Not everyone is aware of the dangers the internet poses and the digital space is full of pranksters, fake actors, crooks, and dangerous files.
Browser cookies need to be removed from time to time. At times, hackers may not penetrate systems completely but are able to sniff out cookies. This helps them obtain third-party data and even make attempts at hacking user credentials.
Apple Mac users use Safari browser. They should go to ‘Preferences’ and then to privacy. From there, they should go to managing website data and then click on removing all tabs to remove cookies.
On Firefox, it is relatively simple. First users go to options, then privacy and security, and then cookies and site data. Then they can clear all cookies.
Google Chrome users should go to the privacy and security tab present in Settings. From there, they should go to the option which pertains to clearing browsing data. Afterward, they should clear the cookies and other site data by checking the relevant box.
