Data Security And Privacy: Follow These Simple Steps To Protect Data Stored On Your Devices

NEW DELHI: The internet has been portrayed as a global network with no boundaries since its inception. In 2020, India experienced over 1.1 million cyber-attacks. In the same year, the country was ranked among the top five in terms of cyber security attacks.

One of the most valuable items on Indians’ devices and networks, like everyone else’s, is the data generated and saved there. Applications and operating systems can be reinstalled. The user-created data, on the other hand, is one-of-a-kind. If it is lost or seen without permission, the consequences could be disastrous.

On the networks of Indian firms, you’re likely to find documents containing trade secrets, private information about employees or customers, or financial data. Apps on devices can also expose sensitive information.

Privacy and security are important, but they don’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. The following are some simple steps that Indians can take to protect their data.

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1. Never use public Wi-Fi for important transactions

Using a public Wi-Fi network may not be as secure as one believes. Avoid using public Wi-Fi to conduct financial transactions or send sensitive information.

2. Do not open emails from unknown senders

Receiving an email from a known person does not ensure that its contents are secure. Do not open or click on any links or attachments in an email from an unknown source or person.

Financial institutions, banks, and other accounts and services frequently send emails. Open a browser window if you want to be safe. Instead of clicking on links in emails, type the URL into the address bar.

3. Avoid storing passwords in browsers

Browser’s “remember password” or “save password” features appear to be harmless. Bad actors, on the other hand, can exploit browser vulnerabilities to steal the credentials that users save on their browsers. Furthermore, anyone with a computer or a mobile device has easy access to them. If someone has access to your device, they can access sensitive information on it. It is dangerous to leave sensitive information, such as account credentials, lying around.

4. Do not use your social media accounts to access third-party websites

It appears to be a simple way to sign up for a website or online service. Furthermore, using social media accounts is more convenient than typing in your credentials. Some websites, for example, allow you to directly access their services using your Facebook or email accounts. However, this may jeopardise your privacy. To be safe, simply go through the standard registration process that all sites have.

5. Always keep private information in a secure location

In a public place, do not save passwords for your online accounts or personal information such as credit card numbers, national identity numbers, or home addresses.

Consider storing sensitive documents on a portable storage device that can be hidden. You can also keep it with a reputable cloud service provider.

6. Consistently update your privacy settings

It’s critical to monitor your social media privacy settings. You must make any changes that are required as they evolve.

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7. Make Using Two-Factor Authentication a Habit (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account if a hacker attempts to access it. Two-factor authentication is a security method in which people must provide two different forms of identification. With 2FA enabled, you can better protect your account and data.

8. When conducting critical transactions, always use secure websites

When you visit a website that has a Digital Certificate, you should see a padlock in your browser’s search bar. For financial transactions or other sensitive information, Indians should always use a secure website.

Secure Socket Layers (SSL) is a secure protocol (SSL). SSL is used to protect data as it travels across the Internet.

You can tell if a website is safe by looking at the beginning of the URL. For example, if you use URLs that begin with https://, you will be safe from hackers.

9. Be Wary of Downloading Files From Untrustworthy Websites

On file-sharing websites, such as peer-to-peer networks, piracy and viruses are commonplace. When it comes to downloading files, avoid any website that you do not completely trust.

10. Maintain Multiple Email Addresses for Various Purposes

Nothing is more risky than using the same email address for all of your online accounts. Even if you may use the same email address multiple times, it’s a good idea to have multiple email addresses for different purposes. As a result, you should have separate email addresses for personal and business use.

11. Always log out of all accounts

Many people fail to log out of internet services after they have finished their online activities. Remember to log out of your accounts at all times because anyone using your device can easily access them.

12. Secure Apps by Locking Them

App lockers work similarly to the lock-screen feature. Locking apps adds an extra layer of security to all applications. A password protects the contents of your applications if your device is stolen. As a result, only you have access to the device. This also prevents unauthorised access to sensitive data.

App locks may be useful in the workplace to limit the programmes and data that employees can access. As a result, employees do not have access to sensitive information that is unrelated to their job.

Online privacy is a young and evolving issue in Indian society. India must emphasise privacy. Sturdy safeguards should also be put in place to protect the privacy of both Indians and foreigners whose data is stored in India, whether temporarily or permanently. Furthermore, the government should continue to seek expanded access and surveillance powers.

However, Indians should be aware that they have a role to play. As a result, residents and citizens must take extra precautions to protect their data. This article discussed important tips for Indians to protect their data. Malicious attacks will be less successful as long as they take these steps.

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