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Learning Online Self-defence

By Natasha Sevilla

There’s no cutting corners when it comes to cyber safety. Cyber attackers have a bunch of tricks up their sleeves, but you can beat them to the punch by adding these defensive tips to your cyber safety fitness plan!

Installing anti-virus software.

This is the simplest and best way to keep your computer safe from viruses. Anti-virus software does regular scans for malware, identifying them by their signatures (which are like fingerprints). Once the software detects a virus, it takes the pesky files or programs from your system, then disables and deletes them.

Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is a secure connection between your device and the internet. VPN adds a layer of encryption to protect the confidentiality of the information you send over the internet. Most applications on your mobile device or computer use encryption to secure the data you send, but using a VPN helps make sure that all the  data you send is protected.

Many businesses use VPNs to protect their networks from cyber threats. When employees connect to the business network remotely with their work devices or personal devices, a VPN will encrypt data and protect the business network.

Securing your home Wi-Fi.

Your Wi-Fi network is the gateway to all your connected devices, plus the accounts and data stored on them. Many cyber criminals are familiar with the default login information on Wi-Fi routers. Be sure to change your network name and password regularly to prevent someone from stumbling onto your network. Here are some tips to keep in mind when securing your home Wi-Fi:

-Use a passphrase, or a strong password for your Wi-Fi.
-Limit the reach of your Wi-Fi by placing your router as close to the middle of your space as possible, rather than placing it near windows.
-Update your devices.

With these self-defence tricks, you can help thwart attempts to hack into your devices.