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It is the responsibility of each individual to safeguard their digital identity. But what practical steps can we take?
Let’s see some recommendations.
Step 1: Utilize a Password Manager
The most common solution recommended by multiple experts is to use a password manager. Passwords pose a significant issue.
The main email address serves as the entrance to all your online accounts. If a hacker gains entry to your mailbox, they can assume your identity or change passwords for other platforms, resulting in potential financial theft or other significant damage.
If you currently utilize password managers, you have probably repeated passwords over time and on various online platforms. Therefore, we advise checking out HaveIbeenpwned.com if you have not already done so.
Step 2: Activate two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication refers to the requirement of using two authentication factors, such as a combination of something you know (such as a password, PIN code, or passphrase), something you have (such as a physical token, USB key, or mobile device), or something you are (such as a fingerprint, face recognition, or hand gesture), to either login or confirm a transaction.
The use of two-factor authentication differs among various services and countries, but the positive aspect is that it is now widely accessible through various methods such as SMS one-time passwords, email one-time passwords, printed one-time passwords, national ID cards, mobile authenticator apps, disconnected tokens, and USB stick tokens.
3. Pause for an additional moment before clicking or posting.
During the time of the day when you typically browse social media, you come across a poll shared by someone you follow titled “Are remote workers more productive?” which catches your attention. However, before clicking on it, it is important to pause and consider if it is worth participating in. Could this potentially reveal personal information about yourself or your company?
The next day, you are sent an email from a service that you are subscribed to, such as an audiobook subscription or CRM. The email requests you to review new promotions, read the blog, and sign in. Before proceeding, take a moment to confirm if this is a legitimate site or a fraudulent one.
4. Do not trust that the person who claims to be calling you is actually who they claim to be.
It used to be a common practice for banks to contact individuals by phone to confirm personal details or transactions. As a result, many people developed the belief that speaking with the bank over the phone was both necessary and secure. And their belief was justified.
Nowadays, things have changed and scammers can contact you and request your password, PIN code, or sensitive personal information like your social security number. They may even try to persuade you to reset your password. It is important to never believe anyone who claims to be from the bank if they call you, without exception.
If you receive a call from your bank or any other service, request for a callback number and verify its legitimacy by checking their official website or a reliable directory such as the Yellow Pages. The same precaution should be taken for emails – do not reset your password if you receive a suspicious email requesting you to do so.
5. Add a password to your mobile subscription account
On August 30th, 2019, Many Twitter accounts were compromised by hackers through a method known as ‘SIM swapping’. This type of attack involves convincing the mobile service provider that the user wants to switch their SIM card to a different one. The hacker can achieve this by calling the service provider and persuading a customer support representative that they are legitimate users.
During the call, they will request a SIM card change, which will result in the user’s phone being disconnected from the network. The hacker will then have control over the phone and its associated mobile number, allowing it to make calls and send messages from the user’s account.
To avoid this disaster, it is advised to reach out to your mobile service provider and establish a secondary PIN code to safeguard your subscription. In certain nations, the default PIN is typically the final four digits of your social security number.
An additional measure (possibly for experienced individuals) includes contacting your mobile service provider and attempting to manipulate your subscription account. This approach has exposed instances where despite a user’s request for a secondary PIN code, the mobile operator failed to set it up, leaving the account still susceptible.
6. Insist on services allowing digital signatures for documents
The traditional method of signing agreements, which involves printing, signing with a pen, and scanning the document, is no longer necessary. Digital signatures have become highly secure and there are now user-friendly online tools available for signing documents. However, only a small percentage of public services and private organizations have adopted this new approach. It is recommended to contact your service providers and urge them to allow digital document signing.
7. Exercise caution when sharing personal information online.
These days, it has become common knowledge that online services profit from collecting large amounts of personal data. Therefore, it is important to be cautious about the information you share and where you share it. For instance, it is advisable to refrain from permitting webshops to save your credit card details. It is crucial to be mindful of who you trust and to recognize the value of being able to make informed decisions about your digital life. Additionally, opt for web services that require minimal personal information or use ones that have a well-established and trustworthy relationship with you.
8. Regularly Monitor Your Credit Reports
Credit reporting services, such as Experian and Equifax, are commonly utilized in both the UK and the USA. It is advisable to regularly review your credit report. Financial institutions may access your credit report to assess your financial stability, so it is important to keep in mind that any entity that views your report will leave a record. It is possible to uncover unexpected notations that may indicate fraudulent behavior.
As an extra precaution, it is recommended to verify that your postal address is current on your bank account.
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