Today, technology runs the world. It has permeated deeply into everyday life, so much so that most people spend the majority of their time interacting with technology in various forms. Whether it’s how you connect with the wider world, consume information, or put yourself out there by posting bits and pieces of your day online, tech is the gateway to modern interactions.
However, an obvious downside to this online lifestyle is that it makes you more vulnerable to hacking attempts. From critical business information to personal data, your online social presence, private or professional, puts your data at risk. But no need to fret, as there are things you can do to stop hackers and their malicious attacks and safeguard your data.
If you’re curious about what are ways of preventing hacking, you’ve come to the right place. Keep scrolling to learn everything you should know about preventing the hacking of your social accounts.
What are the ways of protecting your social media accounts?
With the rising relevance and influence of social platforms, hackers and cybercriminals have begun focusing their efforts on targeting unsuspecting social users. Although social media hack attempts are becoming increasingly common, there are ways you can counter these attempts. If you use a social platform, whether for your business or personal use, how will you make your social media account safe from hackers? Below we have outlined how to avoid hackers and up your account security.
1. Use stronger passwords
Weak passwords are your number one vulnerability, as they represent a major security risk. And making obvious password choices for your bank, email, or social accounts exposes you to hacking attempts that are much more likely to succeed.
Passwords that are easy to guess or are the same across various platforms should be updated promptly. Follow the guidelines for strong passwords to create one that is more secure. This includes combining uppercase and lowercase alphabets, special symbols, and numbers. Moreover, the password should ideally be longer than eight characters; the longer, the better.
2. Use a VPN
It’s always best to avoid public Wi-Fi networks as they are mostly unprotected, and hackers tend to lurk around searching for unsuspecting victims. Hence, experts recommend always sticking to private Wi-Fi networks. But that’s not always possible. Thus, we recommend installing a reliable VPN with high-speed VPN servers across the globe from Canada to Australia. We recommend using VeePN due to its unparalleled protection and unbeatable privacy. It allows you to regain your online freedom and fearlessly connect with public networks for free without risking your data security. What’s more, it’s the best vpn for Canada, so you can tap into the Canadian region, stream your favourite media and consume your desired information without barriers. It’s one of the most convenient ways to take your online freedom to the next level.
3. Only use legit third-party apps
Most third-party applications nowadays come with tons of permission to your socials and won’t work without this access. Most often, these permissions may also infringe on your security and, in severe cases, even spy on your device activity. Hence, it’s essential that you only permit trusted apps. Remember to read through the permissions carefully before granting them to ensure there’s nothing shady about them.
Always check the fine print before grating access. Some apps will require the bare minimum, like access to reading or posting content. It’s better to check all the apps you’ve previously granted permission to by logging on to your social profiles and removing all the shady apps to keep yourself safe from further privacy violations.
4. Use an antivirus application
Another way malicious actors get to your social accounts is by hacking into your pc via malicious software, spyware, or viruses. And a simple solution to avoid such malicious infiltration is to use an antivirus application on your digital devices, from laptops to tablets and pcs. Moreover, if you have an antivirus installed, it’ll also warn you about potentially dangerous websites that can expose your social profiles to hackers.
Always install an antivirus application to shield your sensitive data from prying eyes, whether it’s your work computer or personal use. There are many options for antivirus programs out there; carefully consider your options and choose one that offers well-rounded protection. A good antivirus program regularly runs automatic scans on your device to eliminate existing malware or viruses and ward them off in the future.
If you think that any of your social network profiles have been compromised, run an antivirus scan on your pc right away to get rid of any viruses that could be lurking in the background.
5. Use multi-factor authorization on your profiles
Multi-factor – also known as two-factor authorization – is a robust security mechanism that protects accounts on social media from access by unauthenticated parties. To enable this mechanism, you need to provide two distinct security components, such as a strong password and an authentication code or more, to prove yourself as the legit account owner.
This comes in handy when someone tries to access your account from a different device or location. Anyone who doesn’t take advantage of this security solution is leaving themselves at risk for hacking attempts.
Bottom Line
Security precautions are a worthwhile investment of your time or money as they help you reclaim your privacy and prevent malicious entities from stealing and spying on your data. Consider these five ways to safeguard your online security on social platforms and level up your online security game!
