Strategies for Shielding Your Cyber Identity from Fraudulent Usurpation
In the digital age, safeguarding personal information is of utmost importance. With various VPNs available in the market, each offering different price categories and features, using a VPN for secure internet surfing is recommended [1]. This article presents five ways to prevent digital identity theft and help individuals avoid falling victim to this crime.
- Create Strong, Unique Passwords
For every online account, it's essential to use strong, unique passwords. Combine uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and avoid personal information like names or birthdays. Using a password manager can help generate and store complex passwords securely [1][3][4].
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enabling 2FA adds an extra verification step, making unauthorized access much harder. This could be a code sent to your phone, biometric data, or a one-time password [1][2][4].
- Be Vigilant Against Phishing and Smishing Scams
Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails or messages pretending to be from trusted sources. Always verify the sender’s identity before sharing personal data [1][3].
- Use End-to-End Encryption (E2E)
Ensure websites where you enter sensitive data use HTTPS to encrypt communications between you and the site, protecting information from interception [2].
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Activities
Or, if you must use public networks, use a reputable VPN to secure your internet connection [3].
In addition to these practices, limit personal information sharing online, especially on social media. Monitor your financial and credit reports regularly, and secure your devices by keeping operating systems and software updated with security patches, enabling firewalls, and maintaining antivirus/malware protection [3]. Use identity theft protection services that offer privacy scans, identity monitoring, and recovery assistance [4].
Following these practices and using recommended tools like password managers, 2FA apps, VPNs, antivirus software, and identity theft protection services enhances your defense against digital identity theft during online transactions and general internet surfing [1][2][3][4].
In case of digital identity theft, immediately freeze all bank cards and inform the bank and credit card provider. Remember, avoiding password recycling and only giving personal details to reputable websites are crucial methods to prevent digital identity theft [2].
Some VPNs offer additional features such as secure surfing on multiple devices, an in-built firewall, and high-speed streaming [1]. Stay safe online by following these best practices and using the right tools.
[1] TechRadar. (2021). The best VPN services of 2021. [Online] Available at: https://www.techradar.com/best/vpn
[2] Norton. (2021). How to protect yourself from phishing attacks. [Online] Available at: https://us.norton.com/internetsecurity-phishing.html
[3] IdentityForce. (2021). How to protect yourself from identity theft. [Online] Available at: https://www.identityforce.com/blog/how-to-protect-yourself-from-identity-theft
[4] McAfee. (2021). How to protect yourself from identity theft. [Online] Available at: https://www.mcafee.com/consumer/en-us/articles/identity-protection/how-to-protect-yourself-from-identity-theft.html
- To further safeguard personal information, consider investing in a reliable VPN that caters to both data-and-cloud-computing and cybersecurity needs, as it can strengthen encryption and secure internet surfing [1].
- Along with adopting the suggested habits for preventing digital identity theft, implementing technology such as antivirus software and identity theft protection services can also help create a robust defense against potential threats and maintain privacy in today's digital age. [4]
