Have you ever been worried that one day all your important stuff such as documents, photos, videos, and more will suddenly go missing? Maybe accidentally deleted by someone, or maybe by hackers. Well, this is a very real risk.

So in this article, we will see all the best ways you can use to safeguard your important online documents, photos & items.

How to Protect Data Online?

There is a lot of data that we need to keep safe and secure. This includes financial records, passwords, photos, and other important files. How can you make sure this information is protected?

The best way to protect data online is to back it up and encrypt it. Backups are essential because they are kept on a separate device that you can use if the original data gets lost or corrupted. Encryption protects backed-up data in case someone accesses the backup device and tries to read your files.

You should also be careful about what files you store online and who has access to them. Only upload files that you really want to share with others (and which you don’t mind sharing).

Also, make sure that anyone who has access to these files cannot delete or change them without your permission.

Tips to Keep Your Important File Secure

Here are all the tips and tricks to keep your important and private stuff secure from hackers, data breaches, and spam emails.

1. Use a Password Manager

One of the biggest security threats is your own forgetfulness. If you can’t remember which password goes with which account, what do you do? Most people solve this problem by using the same password for multiple accounts.

This is a huge security risk because if anyone manages to get hold of one password, they have access to all your accounts.

The password manager will generate secure passwords for you and keep track of them all in an encrypted database.

You can “copy” your passwords into online forms with just a couple of keystrokes, and the password information is kept on your computer or smartphone, not in the cloud where it could be hacked.

The best password managers will even automatically fill out online registration forms for you, so as soon as you sign up for an account, it’s ready to use.

2. Never Share Passwords or Access to Accounts

Never share your email address or access to any of your accounts with anyone.

Even if someone claims they’re working with a company or they’re from a government agency, be skeptical and do your research before providing any personal information or access.

If you think someone may have unauthorized access to one of your accounts, change the password immediately and contact the company for help.

pCloud is a secure way to share files and folders with others without sharing your password. You can create a shared link to a file or folder, so others can view the content or use invite to folder so that you can collaborate on particular folders with your co-workers.

3. Use Encryption for Important Documents

Make it a habit to encrypt the contents of all documents that contain sensitive information, such as financial records or other personally identifiable information.

An easy way to do this is to use a program like 7-Zip, WinRAR, which allows you to add password protection to any file or folder, or pCloud Crypto, which is a zero-knowledge encrypted folder and you will be able to access your files from anywhere.

 

4. Avoid Using Public WiFi

Public WiFi is great, but it’s also a hacker’s playground — the connection is unsecured and open to snoopers, who can see anything you do online.

Even if you’re not doing banking or buying things online, a hacker could spy on your emails and steal your login credentials for other sites.

So it’s better to use your own mobile data connection whenever possible and avoid using public WiFi.

Also, get antivirus software and keep it updated. It’s not perfect, but this can help prevent some problems before they happen.

5. Only Download Online Apps and Software from Trusted Sources

Downloading software from a random website may expose you to all sorts of malicious threats.

For example, you might download a game only to find out that it’s riddled with malware. If you use the Internet to download apps and software, stick to trusted sites like CNET, Softonic, SourceForge, and so on.

Also, be wary of free downloads — they can contain malware or other unwanted programs.

6. Consider Using a VPN

One of the easiest ways to start protecting yourself online is to use a virtual private network or VPN. This technology helps prevent cybercriminals from seeing what you’re doing when you’re online by encrypting the data that’s sent and received by your device while using a public WiFi network.

Many VPNs also have built-in locking mechanisms that keep out spyware and malware — an added bonus when you’re connecting to unknown networks!

7. Enable Two-factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication — also called “two-step verification” — is an extra layer of security built into many accounts and devices.

It requires both your password and a one-time code sent via text message or email to log in. This makes it difficult for hackers to get into your account, even if they know your password.

While two-factor authentication isn’t always offered, when it is, you should enable it immediately.

8. Protect Your Social Media Privacy

You might think that you’re sharing sensitive information with only your friends or followers on Facebook or Twitter. But remember, once it’s on the Internet, there’s no getting it back. Even if you delete a post or tweet, there is a chance someone has copied or taken a screenshot of it.

So never send or accept friend requests from people you don’t know. You may want to go ahead and accept that friend request from “Cindy Smith,” but she could be using a fake account to get access to all of your information. Is this really worth the risk?

Also, be careful with what you share on public forums. Public forums like Reddit and Quora can be great places to find answers and ask questions. However, they can also be platforms for hackers looking for personal information they can use against you. Only share sensitive information (that you’re comfortable losing) on public forums.

Final Words

Hopefully, with these tips and tricks, you can continue to keep your important info secure online.

There are so many bigger threats out there such as identity theft, but if you are careful and cautious about keeping data safe by using a password manager, encryption, 2FA, and a VPN — you can be more at ease.

 

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