We spend hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, buying expensive home security systems, upgrading locks, or securing our windows to protect our homes, don’t we?
Unfortunately, most of us overlook one very crucial element when it comes to our home security, which is the internet we’re using, yes, you read that right, your internet connection. Your home internet is the gateway for cybercriminals to access and exploit your personal information for nefarious purposes, leaving you to face the consequences.
On the bright side, that doesn’t have to be the case, provided you follow some quick and easy guidelines. Let me help you keep your home and your future safe by sharing some that I’ve tried and tested.
Choosing a Secure Internet Provider
A lot of potential problems and threats can be avoided if you spend some time researching the security measures that internet providers offer before committing.
But, hey, I know that researching and comparing are always a pain, aren’t they?
To spare you that long and painful process, I’d recommend choosing Xfinity as your internet provider if you haven’t already. Beyond the fast speed, reliability, and built-in security features, they also allow you to add on Xfinity xFi for wall-to-wall Wi-Fi coverage, unlimited data, and advanced security wherever you are.
You can learn more about it by checking out this Xfinity xFi complete guide.
Create Tough to Crack Passwords
When setting up an internet connection in your home, you might be inclined to use the password mentioned on the back of the modem and get to browsing instantly.
I mean, we’ve all been there.
The thing is that while these passwords make it easier to set up, they are rather common and easy to crack, exposing your data.
To avoid that, your next line of defense is to set your internet password to something random and specific to your life. This could be anything from a unique family phrase to a minor detail you remember from a movie or some part of your life.
In addition to the above, you might want to include a mix of uppercase and lowercase, symbols, and numbers to make your password random. Also, you don’t want to stick to one password for too long; keep changing them after a short period, ideally 3 to 6 months, and keep hackers dazed and confused.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
Setting a tough internet password helps, but you’ll need some extra muscle to protect your online data, and setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) can play that role. MFA is a security procedure where you must provide some other form of identification beyond just your password.
These forms of identification can include a one-time code sent to you via phone or email, a security question only you know the answer to, or biometric data scans such as face or fingerprints.
I would suggest implementing MFA across your most sensitive online accounts, such as banking apps, social media, and email, to name a few.
I should mention that when you receive a one-time code through SMS or a call, it is quite likely that cybercriminals can intercept this communication through SIM swapping. In this case, using an authentication app such as Google Authenticator can help, as it can encrypt and protect these codes from hackers.
Use a VPN Every Time You’re Online
Before I explain what a Virtual Private Network, or VPN for short, is, let me explain what an Internet Protocol (IP) address is, since you’ll better understand how it works that way. Your IP address is a unique number that identifies your device on the network you’re using, and it’s required for data sharing.
If cybercriminals access your IP, they can track your location, monitor your online activity, steal your identity, and, most alarmingly, frame you for cybercrimes with IP spoofing, which is when they conduct their illegal activities using your IP address.
A VPN is a software system that encrypts your connection, the data you share or receive online, and hides your IP address. Instead, you browse using the VPN provider’s IP address, keeping your online activities hidden from threats.
That being said, always verify a VPN provider’s credibility before you start using their services, because there are many fake ones out there. I’d recommend going for NordVPN or Norton VPN since they’re both quite well-reputed.
Use an Anti-Virus Software
Time to bring out the big guns!
Anti-virus software can help keep your data and devices safe, as it identifies and removes harmful software such as trojans, viruses, or spyware before they impact your device.
These systems act like your 24/7 digital bodyguards, constantly scanning your network and devices for malware and actively preventing the installation of the previously mentioned harmful software from shady websites.
Most devices, particularly those using Windows 10 and 11, have a built-in anti-virus software called Microsoft Defender.
For others, you might want to consider downloading reputable names such as Bitdefender, Norton, or McAfee. With such systems installed, you just have to make sure they’re regularly updated, as these updates could allow more advanced security protocols.
Securing Your Home Network – Securing Your Past, Present, and Future
To protect everything you’ve worked so hard to create, securing your home internet is a necessary step against the new and evolved methods hackers can use.
With the right internet provider, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and anti-virus software, you can navigate the digital realm with ease, securing your past, present, and future.