As most of us are cooped at home for the foreseeable future, Online platforms are likely to experience more users than ever before.

Facebook, Whatsapp, Instagram and Twitter recently reported that the numbers of people using its apps have doubled.

As these online platforms are battling with measures to keep up with the increase users, it is obvious that cybercriminals will surface to take advantage of the situation through malicious attacks for their own gains.

In this article, we share with how you can stay safe from malicious attacks during this period.

Avoid Visiting Unsecured sites.

One way to avoid sharing your information with online criminals is to stay away from sites that are not secured.  When visiting a site, always watch at the site address.  Sites that begins with “https”  are more secured than sites that begin with “http”.

Stay Away from too Cheap Offers

You will often find messages purported to be sent from organizations such as MTN, WHO among others claiming to be offering free data bundles. Avoid clicking or sharing these links. You can find information about these organizations by visiting their official websites or social media handles.

Regularly Update your Mobile Apps

Keeping your mobile apps updated does not only enhance the features of your device, it also improves the security of your device. Cybercriminals continuously search for loopholes in apps and other online systems. Regularly check for new updates on your device and keep it up to date.

Install a good antivirus

The main function of any antivirus software is to scan your phone for malware (malicious apps and files) and alert you to any problems. Most also provide real-time alerts for any potentially unsafe websites you might visit, where the chances of picking up an unpleasant file are higher.

Keep your personal details secure

Keep your passwords and pin numbers in a safe place. Be very careful about how much personal information you share on social media sites. Scammers can use your information and pictures to create a fake identity or to target you with a scam.

Review your privacy and security settings on social media.

If you use social networking sites, such as Facebook, be careful who you connect with and learn how to use your privacy and security settings to ensure you stay safe.  If you recognize suspicious behavior, clicked on spam or have been scammed online, take steps to secure your account and be sure to report it.

In conclusion, always be alert when using social media and keep your information safe.

Source: Guest blogger, Bright Wumbei

Author

  • Francis Amoah Nuako

    Francis Amoah Nuako, professionally known as PC Boss, is a Ghanaian blogger and SEO expert. He is the founder of PC Boss Online, a tech blog that publishes technology-related articles primarily for Ghanaian audiences. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) and a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc Information Technology) from the University of Health and Allied Sciences and Ghana Communication Technology University, respectively.

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