Your data, which includes everything from personal emails to credit card information, is constantly exposed to threats, especially when you’re browsing. Fortunately, you can take simple steps to protect yourself while online.
Use Strong Passwords
A weak password like “123456” or “password” is easy for hackers to guess, so aim for something that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. The more complex your password, the harder it will be to crack.
Consider using a password manager to help you keep track of different logins without the need to memorise every single one. They come up with pretty complex passwords, and if synced correctly will work with your mobile device if you need to login and don’t have access to your desktop. They’re a great tool, especially if you struggle to keep up with all your passwords, like me!
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
I cannot recommend this enough! This requires you to provide two pieces of information – usually your password and a code sent to your phone or email – making it significantly harder for anyone to access your account, even if they have your password. Providing a verification code reduces the likelihood of your account being accessed by someone who isn’t you.
There are also apps out there that you can sync your accounts to which will be able to give you an access code. Go for something tried and tested, like DuoMobile.
Keep Your Browser and Software Updated
I used to be so guilty of not doing this. My husband would often come over to me when I’m working and say ‘you need to update that’. Outdated browsers or software often contain vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Developers regularly release updates to patch security holes, so it’s crucial to keep your browser and other software up to date.
Set your browser to update automatically or check regularly if manual updates are needed, and check for any app updates on your phone daily too.
Be Wary of Phishing Scams
These scams usually come in the form of emails, messages or websites that look legitimate but are actually designed to trick you into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials or payment details. Make sure to check the sender’s email address before you download attachments or click on any links.
If you’re still worried about the email address, you can always find their website and email them directly to ensure it’s a legitimate source.
Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps protect your online activity by encrypting your internet connection, making it more difficult for third parties to track what you’re doing. When browsing on public Wi-Fi networks, consider using a VPN for Chrome or any other browser to ensure that your data remains safe.
A VPN hides your real IP address, making it harder for websites and advertisers to track you. It’s an excellent tool for anyone who values their privacy while browsing.
Use Secure Connections
When browsing, ensure that any website you visit is using HTTPS instead of HTTP. The “S” at the end stands for secure, meaning the site encrypts your data while you interact with it.
Before entering your details, look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. This indicates the site uses a secure connection, protecting your data from being intercepted by third parties.
Limit Social Media Sharing
Social media platforms are great for staying connected, and statistics show that Facebook remains the most popular network as of 2025 but they also present a danger to your privacy if you overshare. By posting too many personal details, you may unintentionally give hackers clues about your passwords or security questions. It’s best to keep sensitive information off your social media profiles.