by Larry Ursich
Today, nearly everyone, including seniors, interacts with at least one screen daily. Technology is no longer just for the young or the tech-savvy. Although it offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges. If you’re not particularly comfortable with technology, you might wonder how to stay safe while using the internet. In this guide, we will provide you with practical steps to help you navigate landscape with confidence and expertise, and we’ll walk you through how to protect yourself against cybercrime with some expert advice.
What is Cybercrime?
Cybercrime refers to all criminal activities carried out using computers or the internet.
Unfortunately, this can include a large list of things like hacking, identity theft, and scams to scarier attacks like ransomware.
In Scotland, just like in the rest of the world, cybercrime is growing in numbers day by day.
But what does this mean for you?
Simply put, if you’re online, you could be at risk without even noticing. Understanding the different types of cybercrime is the first step in protecting yourself.
The State of Cybercrime in Scotland
In recent years, Scotland has seen a significant rise in cybercrime incidents.
From small businesses to individual users, everyone should care about their online data.
Scottish Government data shows that in 2023-24, a staggering 16,890 cyber-crimes were estimated to have been recorded by the police in Scotland: this is equivalent to around 6% of all crimes recorded. Of the cyber-crime element approximately 30% were also classified as sex crimes.
Many of these cases relate to ‘sextortion.’ This is sadly a common practice where the perpetrator threatens to reveal incriminating evidence unless they receive some form of monetary payment.
This is just an example of a particular type of attack, but hackers can also target your bank information, sensitive data, and much more.
Here’s how to Protect Yourself
Cybercrime is a threat to everybody, even to people living in Scotland, where cyberattacks have grown 13% from 2023 to 2024. Let’s look at some of the best protective measures you can take to steer clear of cyberattacks.
Use Strong Passwords
Using the same password for all your accounts is a huge mistake. We get that it is more comfortable and practical, but it could be dangerous. You should also avoid using personal information for your passwords.
Think about that: your birthday, your kids’ birthday, and even your pet’s name can be easily discovered, especially if you actively use social media.
Here are some tips for strong passwords:
- Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- The more random, the better.
- Use a trustworthy password manager if you don’t remember all your codes.
Add a Two Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is a security tool that’ll request a second form of verification every single time you try to log in to your accounts.
We’ll be honest here; it can be a little annoying to search for this code, but it’s only a few seconds, and it strengthens exponentially the security of your data.
This authentication could be done through a text message, email, or authentication app.
Benefits of 2FA include:
- Even if you missed our previous advice and your password is compromised, the attacker faces a dead-end.
- It provides an additional security measure for free.
Use Encrypted Communication
Use encrypted messaging apps for sensitive conversations, you can easily check this on every app description.
Encryption means that only you and the intended recipient can read the messages.
Download a VPN
VPNs encrypt the internet connections you access, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data.
By using a VPN server, you will hide your IP address and encrypt sensitive data. It truly does not matter what type of system or software you are using; VPNs can be used with all types of operating systems and devices, plus they’re really easy to use.
You can read this information source if you want to learn more.
Backup Your Data
Try backing up your data on other physical devices at least once in a while. You don’t have to save all your information, photos, and videos, but try to save your most precious content.
This will take time, but it’s a lifesaver in the case of damaged devices and hacker attacks. You can also use cloud services if you don’t have a spare physical device; this is a very good option, too.
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi
Open Wi-Fis can be dangerous even if they seem harmless.
There’s no way of knowing if the wifi source you’re connecting to is safe or not, so the only possible solution here is to rely on a good VPN and avoid using Public Wi-Fis.
Secure Browsing Practices
How safe are your browsing habits? Using the internet is not all clicks and fun; even the most innocent webpage can hide threats, especially if you’re not well-educated about online security.
Tips for Safe Browsing:
- Use a secure browser with built-in security features.
- Enable pop-up blockers.
- Don’t download files from suspicious websites.
- Regularly clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
This may seem like a lot, but you can ask for help to do these steps; you don’t need to be an expert in everything.
Be Cautious with Social Media
Finally, and maybe one of the most important pieces of advice is this one.
Don’t overshare private data on social media platforms because they are a common target for cybercriminals. Plus, you should adjust your privacy settings so you can reduce your risk.
Social Media Safety Tips:
- Set your profiles to private if that’s something you can do.
- Be mindful of what you post and who you connect with.
- Avoid sharing sensitive personal information like your address or phone number.
- Report any suspicious activity to the platform immediately.
Of course, you can do any use you prefer with social, this is completely your choice, but you should keep in mind the dangers of exposing your personal data to the world.
Truly, this a very private decision to make, take time to think about the kind of social media usage you want.
Use this simple guide to watch your back while having fun on the internet.
Larry Ursich, the author is a journalist who specialises in business and consumer affairs.
