Hackers and cybercriminals on the Internet are becoming more sophisticated and skilled by the day. In the midst of hospital records being altered and federal systems being cracked into, it is more important than ever to learn to keep your digital footprint safe. These are some measures you can take to ensure that:

1. Your passwords

A majority of the population uses the same password for multiple accounts. And they let their browser save it for autofill. A hacker can get access to all your accounts because of this. Password generator apps make complicated passwords and keep your account safe.

2. Two-factor authentication

For the accounts you use every day, use two-factor authentication for signing in. According to this, every time someone tries to log in to your account, a verification code is sent to your phone number. You also use a FIDO key which is a physical USB key which allows access to certain accounts.

3. New computer

Old computer devices are not equipped against cyber-attacks. You need to replace your old computer for a more sophisticated one which has all the latest cybersecurity hardware.

4. Cleaning

Treat your data like pollution. Once the data is out, there’s no coming back. Make a habit of storing data offline and deleting old data you have no use for. This goes for your old accounts on social media too.

5. Sensitive conversation

Avoid emails for carrying out a conversation with sensitive information. Email is an easy target for hackers. Keep secret conversations secret and use private messengers for private information.

6. VPN

Unless you set up your own VPN (virtual private network), it is not as safe as you might hope. But if you need to get online in public, it is better to do it via VPN.

These tactics will improve your digital fortifications and make you difficult to hack. As in the case of real-life theft, looking secure goes a long way in deterring thieves. These simple tips may be what save your private information from being used for malicious purposes online.