Never has there been more need to consider security measures when using the internet than today.
Hackers and cybercriminals are using tools that advance in technology with each passing year and you need to keep one-step ahead of them. With this in mind, we are looking into four security tools that you should consider in 2019.
Two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication, aka 2FA, can be used alongside passwords. Many people use passwords that are easy to guess. Even the word “password” is itself used more often than you would like to think.
Many people also use the same password for multiple accounts. If hackers guess your password, they can access all your accounts. Two-factor authentication puts a stop to this.
One of the most common types of two-factor authentication requires a code to be sent to a mobile device. This is often by text or sometimes an app is used on a mobile device to generate a code. Once you have the code you type it in when asked after using your user name and password.
As the code is unique each time you log in to your accounts, and only you have access to the code, hackers cannot steal it.
Use a VPN
A VPN, aka Virtual Private Network, is a superb tool for protecting your personal data and information. In addition, it offers numerous other online benefits into the bargain.
With a VPN, you sign up for a plan with a provider and download an app onto the device you use to connect to the internet. Providers offer apps for a wide range of devices and simultaneous connections up to a limit.
A small app runs in the background of your device and you use it to connect to a server offered by the provider. The server can be one from your own country or you can choose one halfway around the world.
Once connected to a server your own IP address is masked and you take one on from the server’s location.
In addition, you are put behind an encrypted virtual tunnel. Any data that travels to and from the internet is encrypted, which means it is unreadable. If hackers and cybercriminals cannot read your personal information, they cannot steal it.
You can visit this site to know more about VPN providers.
Use a password manager
Password managers can help you to remain safe and secure online. With a password manager, you no longer have to use easy passwords that can be guessed, and you can use a different password for each online service you use.
A password manager is an encrypted digital vault that allows you to manage all passwords and automatically fill them in on sites. Most managers can even create unique strong passwords that would be extremely difficult to guess.
With a different password for every site you use, even if a hacker managed to crack one, they would not be able to use it for your other accounts.
You can get a free password manager, which you can generally use on a single device with limitations, or paid software offering numerous additional benefits.
Get a proxy service
Another solution is to use a proxy server. A proxy server acts as a gateway between the internet and the user and offers different levels of security and privacy based on the needs of the user.
When using a proxy server the traffic from the internet goes through the proxy server and it is encrypted so it cannot be read if intercepted along the route. This is similar protection to what a VPN offers but with the Virtual Private Network, you get additional benefits.
