In our increasingly digital world, almost every aspect of our lives is online: managing finances, shopping, staying connected with friends and family, and even working remotely. That convenience, however, comes with more exposure—and more vulnerability points. But, with a few smart habits, you can significantly reduce your risk and keep your personal information safer.
Here are five essential strategies you can implement today.
1. Enable two-step authentication
Also known as multi- or two-factor authentication (MFA/2FA) or login approval, two-step verification provides an extra layer of security beyond your username and password to protect against account hijacking. When using this security feature, you will log in using your password and then be prompted to verify your identity again. This second verification is usually done via a biometric (fingerprint or face scan), security keys or a unique one-time code through an app on your mobile device.
Passwords can be phished, guessed, reused, or leaked. When an attacker gets your password, that’s all it takes to breach an account. But with 2FA turned on, they’ll need that additional factor—which significantly raises the bar. Security firms note that enabling 2FA/MFA prevents a large percentage of account takeovers.
Many websites and companies offer two-step verification, and they make it easy to set up this second layer—usually found in the settings section of your account. Using two-step authentication can help you feel more secure, especially for sites containing your financial information, like online banking. Keep a backup method in case you lose your primary device, and turn on notifications for unusual login attempts so you’re alerted immediately if someone tries to access your account.
2. Check a site’s SSL certificate and use safe networks
Whenever you’re shopping online and entering credit card or bank information, it’s important to make sure that website is secured to protect against hackers trying to steal your information—and ensure you’re avoiding risky environments like public WiFi networks. You can find out if a website is secure by checking its SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certification. While this process sounds complicated, it’s actually one of the simplest and quickest things to do for your online security.
When on a website, check the URL. Does it start with “http://” or “https://”? If you notice an “s” at the end, that means your connection is encrypted and secure. Any data you enter is safely sent to the website. However, not all sites have SSL certification. They may be fine to browse but avoid sharing any financial or personal information on websites without this added layer of security.
Public WiFi networks (in coffee shops, airports, hotels) are notorious for being unprotected or compromised, making it easy for hackers to intercept your data. Avoid doing sensitive activities like online banking or account changes when connected to public WiFi. You should also turn off settings such as “Automatically connect to open WiFi networks” on your phone or laptop.
3. Don’t save financial information on shopping platforms
Many shopping sites let you save your credit card information in your online account. This setup makes it easier to make purchases in the future, as your billing and shipping addresses and credit card information are stored. However, if you can access this information, so can hackers. Rather than store your credit cards and addresses in your accounts, spend the extra minute to enter your information each time you make a purchase.
Even sites with SSL certification can be hacked. While there may not be a way yet to completely safeguard your data from hackers if you shop online, you can secure your financial information better by removing it altogether from shopping sites. When you create a new account or shop somewhere new, using a mobile wallet can provide an extra layer of security.
4. Be careful who you trust
Catfishing has made headlines numerous times in the last few years, and this online scam doesn’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. Catfishing happens when a person sets up a fake online profile—usually on social media or dating sites—and targets people with the goal of asking for money.
Catfishers are in it for the long game and may try to strike up an online relationship for months before asking for money. The losses can be extreme, averaging more than $15,000 per victim. Oversharing on social media can also give fraudsters all the pieces they need about your habits, travel plans, or identity.
To avoid catfishing, don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know and never send money or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person. If a situation ever feels suspicious, trust your gut and cut off contact with that individual. Review your social media friends or followers lists periodically and remove people you don’t know or trust.
5. Create strong, unique passwords
Whether it’s your social media or online banking accounts, it’s important to use strong, unique passwords. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to constantly change your passwords (unless you notice unauthorized access or your account is part of a data breach). But, it’s recommended to avoid reusing the same password across different accounts.
Make your password a sentence: A strong password is a sentence that is at least 12 characters long and a combination of upper- and lowercase numbers, letters, and special characters. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “Il0v3c0untrymu$ic!”).
If you ever think your account has been compromised, change your password immediately and scan your account activity for signs of unauthorized access.
Bonus tips: because good habits matter
Review your online presence periodically
Search your name and see what comes up. Remove or secure old accounts you no longer use. Experts recommend auditing your digital footprint to maintain privacy and image.
Back up important data
Even if you think your hack or risk breach is low, losing access to your email or files due to malware or ransomware is real. Backing up your data and encrypting sensitive files adds another layer of protection.
Stay informed about new scams
Cyber threats evolve quickly. Make it a habit to read up on emerging scams and threats—knowledge is your front-line defense.
Consider your devices, too
Every phone, tablet, or laptop is a potential entry point. Use strong device passwords, enable encryption where available, keep your software updated, and enable “Find My Device” so you can remotely lock or wipe if lost.
Protect children and vulnerable family members
Older adults are often targeted by scammers, and children’s identities can be used without their knowledge. Help them implement these same practices.
Bottom line
Your online presence matters, whether you’re simply browsing, shopping, banking, or connecting with friends. Taking just a few minutes to enable security features, reviewing how you share information, and using strong passwords can make a big difference.
By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to keep your personal and financial information safe from hackers, scammers, and identity thieves.
