Each year, millions of cases of fraud and computer misuse are reported, many of which could have been prevented with a few simple changes in online behavior. You don't need to be a computer expert to avoid becoming a victim of online crime. By developing good online habits, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling prey to cybercrime and use the web safely.
Cybercrime encompasses all crimes that:
Be cautious when opening emails or texts from unknown senders. Always verify suspicious messages, even if they seem to come from someone you know. Avoid clicking links or providing personal information in unsolicited messages. Use spam filters to reduce phishing attempts. Access websites by typing the URL directly into your browser.
Social media can keep you connected, but be careful with what you share. Once posted, it can be out of your control and used by others. To protect yourself, set your privacy settings to the highest level and check them often. Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers, block apps from tracking your location, and think before sharing content. If you wouldn’t say or do it in person, don’t post it online.
If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Verify the domain name and be cautious of unrealistically low prices. Avoid paying by bank transfer, as legitimate sites typically accept credit/debit cards or trusted payment services. Always review the site’s terms and conditions to ensure they are fair and clear.
To prevent data loss from ransomware, regularly back up important documents and photos. Use a USB stick, an external hard drive (disconnect when not in use), or a cloud server with a strong password. Having backups in different locations reduces the risk of losing your data if an attack occurs.