Credit: Daniel Elizalde
The tech has changed, but the game’s the same.
Life is so much easier with all of our smart devices, right? But if we are too careless with our devices, we are susceptible to security breaches. Between our phones, Smart TVs, smart locks, and security cameras, we are not safe from anything if we don’t plan accordingly. Let’s look at some ways that you can make sure you are as safe as possible.
Unique Passwords
I know, how basic can we get? But having a unique password is critical to secure all of your devices. Make each password as unique as you can, and use a different one for each device. It can be a pain, but it will help to make sure that you are always secure. You can also visit password managing sites like Dashline that will create secure passwords for you and store them in an encrypted vault. These password managers will remember all of your details once you officially log in.
Shut Down Each Night
It is important that you shut down your devices completely each night. This will allow system updates to take place and install any new security measures that you may need. While doing so, you should be looking at the apps and programs that you are not using. If you’re not using them, delete them. Do not keep any unwanted features and apps that could be slowing down your device or allowing another opportunity for someone to hack in.
Two-factor Authentication
Yes, this is another one of those things that seems needless and time-consuming. When you enable two-factor authentication, you will receive a one-off code whenever you try to log in to certain apps on your device. Your secondary device will receive the code that you will need to check and input into the app. This will always ensure that you know every app that is being opened.
Track Your Own Network
Your Wi-Fi network is your defense system at home. If you have never changed the password that came with your router, tonight is the time to make that change. You can even rename your router or modem while you are changing the password. It is best to rename it to something that does not identify you as the owner.
These four tricks are not anything new, but simple reminders of easy things that we can be doing to make sure our devices are as safe as possible. The little extra effort and time may be the difference between a secure network or one that hackers would love.
