Top Tools And Software To Secure Your Devices In 2020

By Mfidie Last updated Jan 18, 2021

We live in a digital era, and digital threats are more complex than they were ten years ago. Nowadays, people use the internet for everything, from social media to online banking. The popularity of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets revolutionized how people access the internet.

These mobile devices ensure that users can work on the go and access their documents from anywhere in the world. Antiviruses have been touted to be the best in securing devices from hacking, but alone, they cannot work against all threats out there.

Some examples of Threats

Ransomware

Ransomware is an attack that holds your tools or data at ransom by using encryption. You cannot access your device until you use a decryption key that the hackers offer in exchange for payment, usually in the form of Cryptocurrency because of the anonymity it provides.

Phishing

Phishing never seems to get old. The scams just become more complex. The first phishing scam happened 25 years ago in 1995. But the one most people know of is the Love Bug, which struck five years later.

Phishing involves email messages, seemingly from a source you trust, such as a bank. The email contains a link or attachment, inviting you to click on the link or download the attachment. You are automatically directed to a fake site run by the hackers, where you are asked to provide your login details or other personal data.

How to secure your devices

Here are some tips for you to prevent your devices and sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.

Installing a VPN

A VPN or a Virtual Private Network encrypts all data and communication to and from your device. A VPN hides your location and masks your IP address by allocating your device to a virtual location. The secure tunnel protects all your online traffic from snooping and interference.

You can install the app on your devices. Alternatively, some people consider getting a home VPN router to secure all the devices and smart appliances connected to your home WiFi network.

Use stronger passwords

Strong passwords are one way to prevent attacks such as brute force. A secure password contains at least eight to twelve characters with lower and uppercase letters, numbers as well as special characters. Make it easy for you to remember but almost impossible for others to guess.

Use multi-factor authentication

Use your password and multifactor authentication such as a retina or fingerprint scan. This makes your devices impossible to hack, as someone would have to force you to use your fingerprint or retina. Not unless you are in a hostage situation, this is highly unlikely.

Keep all device software updated

Ensure you update the software on your devices when they prompt you to do so. Software updates often include security vulnerability fixes. If you do not update, a hacker is able to detect this vulnerability and use it to hack your device.

Carefully guard your private information. The information you share publicly might be the key to social engineering cybercriminals. If, for example, you post about your father’s middle name or your pet’s name, you might reveal the answers to the most commonly asked security questions.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is critical to every Internet user. Our over-reliance on internet-enabled gadgets makes it easy for us to be hacked. We send and receive emails on our devices, access social media sites and even do online banking. Hackers are always lurking on unsecured networks, waiting for vulnerable devices they can attack. Take charge and secure your devices and data.