Welp, you might as well use that skill to make me some money.
Here are some ads!
Luckily, these are relatively harmless if you've learned your lesson and not clicked them. Since you're still here though... How about some tips to keep yourself a little bit more safe in an online world?
Be Careful What You Click
One of the most common ways that criminals access personal information is by tricking people into clicking on what appear to be innocuous links or attachments in emails.
Keep Your Software Up to Date
Updating your software makes sure that discovered vulnerabilities are patched and less likely to be used to compromise your device.
Use Anti-Virus Protection & Firewall
When you do make a mistake and run software that can compromise your device, antivirus and firewall software are a great line of defense.
Use a Password Management Tool & Strong Passwords
Doesn't remembering passwords suck? Using a password manager not only makes security convenient but makes using complex passwords and two-factor authentication on all your accounts easy to do as well.
Use Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication
While entering an extra passcode every time you log into a new account seems inconvenient, it is much more inconvinent to have your accounts compromised and your information stolen. Using two-factor authentication is the best way to make sure only you have access to your accounts and protects you even if your password is guessed or compromised.
Learn About Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are becoming more and more common and advanced. Always be skeptical of any received e-mails or messages and if they seem unexpected or urgent confirm with a phone call or other form of communication where you can guarantee the other party is who they say they are.
Protect Your Sensitive Personal Identifiable Information
Never share your personal information with anyone that you cannot guarantee needs it, and is legitimate. Whenever possible provide it in person.
Use Your Mobile Devices Securely
Think of all the sensitive information that is contained on your mobile device. Not just your information, but your family, friends, and employer's information as well.
Always use a secure passcode and keep it to yourself.
Keep your mobile device up to date just as you would the software on your computer.
Only install applications from trusted reputable sources and think twice about time-wasting games or simple utilities that may be stealing your information.
Never share your information with anyone that you cannot guarantee needs it, and is legitimate.
Backup Your Data Regularly
Keep offline backups in separate physical locations and ensure it is encrypted. Test your backups regularly to make sure they work. In the case that a device is stolen or compromised a backup can save you a lot of hassle.
Don't Use Public Wi-Fi
While public Wi-Fi is convenient there are many ways your communications can be intercepted or snooped without your knowledge. If necessary to use, having a VPN from a reputable source can make it much more difficult for your traffic to be compromised.
Review Your Online Accounts & Credit Reports Regularly for Changes
It is important to make sure only you have been using your accounts especially when it comes to finance. Check your authentication logs and reports regularly for any suspicious activity.