The start of another year brings an opportunity for everyone to take control of their finances with renewed determination. Since much of our lives now takes place online, it’s equally important to be thoughtful about our digital security.
To help you reach a calmer, safer online experience, we’ve compiled our top pieces on staying secure on the internet. From managing login credentials to browsing safely, you’ll find guidance and practical internet safety advice for everyone. Here’s how to stay safe online in 2023.
Protecting Your Passwords
Your passwords are the gateway to your online world, so guarding them is essential to good internet safety. Begin by keeping your credentials in a reputable password manager.
A password manager lets you keep all your login details in one protected location. Take a look at our recommended password managers to choose one that fits your digital routine.
Create a robust password and avoid risky habits like reusing the same password across multiple services. Activating extra safeguards such as two-factor authentication is strongly advised for sensitive accounts, especially your bank accounts.
If you must share access with relatives or close friends, make sure you do so securely and maintain good internet safety practices.
Using Face ID for Secure Logins
Passwords are useful, but iPhone and iPad users may wonder whether Face ID provides adequate protection for sensitive accounts while preserving strong internet safety.
Face ID is Apple’s biometric approach that relies on a 3D facial map as your key — an advancement over Touch ID, which uses fingerprint data.
Read our Face ID guide to understand how reliable it is for everyday logins and whether it’s appropriate for safeguarding financial details like bank access.
Browsing the Web with Caution
We spend a lot of time online, so it’s wise to browse with internet safety top of mind.
If you frequently connect to public Wi-Fi or worry about others intercepting your traffic, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to improve your connection’s security.
While surfing, it’s also beneficial to know the different layers of the web, including areas you might want to steer clear of, such as the dark web.
Online Banking and Financial Transactions
Online banking and money transfer activities rank among the most sensitive tasks we perform on the internet. If someone gets into your bank account, the financial consequences can be severe — a major internet safety concern.
To put your mind at ease, we’ve examined banking apps to see whether they can be trusted for everyday use.
Also, when sending money to others, learn how to use services like Zelle and similar payment apps securely and always keep online safety practices in mind.
Your Personal Information on Google
Google is an incredibly powerful search tool many of us use daily. Search engines help us conduct research and find resources quickly.
However, sometimes your personal details can appear in search results (for example, sensitive account information), which could jeopardize your privacy and overall internet safety. Exposed data may also invite online scams.
Don’t let Google be the gateway to identity theft. Periodically search your name to see what appears and, if necessary, take steps to remove personal information from search results.
Keeping Sensitive Documents Safe
Occasionally we must keep confidential information on our devices. Sensitive files might include obvious items like bank statements and tax returns, or simply documents you consider private.
Make sure you store important files securely on your computer so unauthorized individuals can’t access them. Your internet safety also depends on how well you protect your own devices.
Responding to a Data Breach
No matter how careful you are, digital security incidents can still happen. When an intruder accesses a protected server containing personal or financial data, that event is called a data breach.
But a breach doesn’t mean you should panic. If you discover your information has been exposed, follow the right steps to secure your accounts and recover after a data breach.
How you react to a breach is critical for preserving strong internet safety.
Alexandra Reeves is a senior writer with Savinly specializing in technology.
For more practical guidance on safe online transactions and meeting people through online marketplaces, see our advice on stay safe buying on craigslist.
