The 7 Most Common Mistakes People Make on the Internet

Simple steps to protect your digital identity.

People are conducting more online transactions, business and other activities each year, and the amount of individuals engaging in online activities is in a state of constant growth. A lot of money is changing virtual hands and a lot of people out there want to illegally grab as much of that money as possible, and don’t care who they hurt while they do it. So you really need to be on guard and make sure you don’t become a victim of internet scams and fraud because you haven’t done your homework on online security.

Here is a list of the seven most common and avoidable mistakes made online by internet users.

1. Not Using a Secure Connection for Financial Transactions.

Your information is placed in serious jeopardy when you use unsecured shopping carts and forms to complete transactions. You don’t know who is collecting your bank account or credit card numbers. Make your purchases at only well-known big named sites or use a credit card processor such as Paypal for greater safety and protection.

2. Putting Personal Info on Networking Sites

Young people often fall victim to this mistake, entering their telephone number or home address on a social website. This can result in meeting less than savory individuals or even harassment both on and offline.

3. Accepting Cookies from Unknown or Unfamiliar Sites

Although cookies can make surfing easier, they can be devastating to your security. Cookies can be spyware that records your password and your keystrokes. All of your private data can be collected without your knowledge. Stay on the safe side and accept no cookies from sites you don’t know.

4. Using the Same or Similar Passwords and User Names for Different Accounts

It’s simply a bad idea because once access is gained to one account, then the security of all your other accounts is compromised. Use different log ins and passwords to increase protection.

5. Storing Passwords, Account Numbers and other Identification on the computer.

Information of this type should NEVER be stored on your computer. Putting it on a CD or USB memory stick is a better option, or even keeping it on a notepad in a secure place. No hacker alive has ever designed a program that can lift information out of a notebook.

6. Not Monitoring Children Online

All activities of children should be monitored, both for their own safety and your own. If you find that they are involved in activity that is dangerous and threatens your security, immediately take action to end the behavior. Having strict rules in place about internet conduct is a good way to protect your children and yourself.

7. Using Anti-Spyware or Anti-Virus Programs Properly

Spyware and Malware can be installed on your computer just by visiting a site. You’d never know it. These programs can send sensitive information as well as write executable programs that take over your system over time. The best thing to do is keep anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed and properly updated for comprehensive protection. conduct and safety is a good way to minimize risks for everyone.

Take online security serious and educate yourself concerning the risks you take every time you surf or do a transaction online. Use the information in this article to make your online experience safe and secure for yourself and your family.