Today Safer Internet is indeed the basic need of everyone. Suppose you are walking on the street then you have to be aware of your surrounding to tackle any threat. The same goes for internet, when you surf online there are many potential threats that can harm you. This is why it is necessary to understand why Internet safety is important.
We have to save ourselves from hackers and spammers because they can attack our private information like addresses, phone numbers, financial information, etc.
In this article, we will tell you what is internet safety and how can you protect yourself from any intruders in this digital world.
Why Do We Need It
It is critical to understand the dangers or risks associated with unsecured Internet access in order to understand why you need to protect your privacy and maintain Internet safety standards.
Our personal information is one of the main reasons we need safe internet. When we use the internet, we frequently disclose personal information like our addresses, financial information, and names. If this information got into the wrong hands then it can be used in the wrong way or can be used to commit fraud.
Internet safety is more important when it comes to our children, we have to protect our children from online predators, inappropriate content, and cyberbullying. Safety like parental control, mature content filters, and monitoring their online activity can prevent them from any threat.
We can use strong passwords, avoid suspicious links, and use known websites to protect our personal information from getting into the wrong hand.
Online Threats You Need To Be Aware
There are several ways that someone can threaten you through the internet. Some of thee are:
1. Cyberbullying
We can be bullied, chased, or intimidated by someone using the internet or social media. Threatening messages, spreading false news, rumors, or making hurtful remarks are some examples of cyberbullying. It should not be ignored because it can have serious psychological effects on people that affect their personality for a lifetime.
2. Online Froud and Scams
With the help of the internet anyone can trick you to give all your personal information or money to them. Phishing scams, fake websites, or fraudulent emails are some examples of online fraud. These online calls and websites look very real and promising but when the time comes they will rip you off.
So avoid any unknown calls and website visits that you don’t know.
3. Online Stalking
The Internet makes it possible for anyone to observe your movements or online activity. Stalkers can follow you on the social media platform and follow your day-to-day activity like where you live, when you go outside, whose are your friends, etc.
They can also use spyware or hacking methods to access your device and steal your personal information.
4. Online Threats
Threats and other forms of harassment can be spread via the internet. Sending threatening messages, calls, and making threatening comments on social media are some examples of online threats.
5. Identity Fraud
Our social security numbers, credit card information, and bank account information are kind of our identity and they can all be stolen through the internet. They can then make purchases, open new accounts, or commit other forms of financial fraud with this information. And later on, it’s all blame on you because these are your IDs.
It is very important to know internet threats and frauds and take action against them. There are various ways to protect yourself against these scams.
How To Protect Ourself
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself online and reduce the risk of being threatened or harmed by others. Here are some necessary steps to stay safe on the internet:
1. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
On your device and wireless networks always use a unique and secure password. To create a strong password you can use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Do not use the same password for multiple accounts, generate different passwords and note it down somewhere safe because you may forget too many login credentials.
2. Be Cautious When Sharing Personal Information
Don’t give out private information like your date of birth, social security number, or financial details online. If you trusted the source or you know about them then this is the only case when you share your personal information.
You can also visit personally and check the source who needs your personal information. Example – Bank.
3. Use Privacy Settings
Social media platforms provide you the feature of privacy settings where you can choose or filter your audience who can see your profile account, information, posts, and other personal things that you post online.
This way you can narrow down people and only known people can access your information. This helps in preventing unwanted attention or harassment from strangers.
4. Stay Up To Date With Security Software
Your computer and other devices keep updating their firmware from online threats like viruses, malware, and phishing attacks. So make sure your device is always updated with the latest software.
5. Be Cautious of Suspicious Links or Emails
Avoid downloading attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. These links can contain malware or other hurtful programming that can hurt your PC or take your own data.
6. Report Threats Or Harassment
Suppose you become the victim of any online fraud or harassment then immediately inform the authorities so they can take quick action against the fraud.
You can also report abusive or threatening behavior on your social media platform through reporting tools and they will terminate the harasser’s account or be banned from their platform.
7. Make The Internet Child-Friendly
It is safe to educate your children about the potential dangers of the Internet and to supervise their online activities for a while, but your children may get the wrong impression if they discover you are spying on their online activities.
This is where cyber security software and hardware can help. It is possible to make the Internet safe for children by using software that allows you to block websites that are inappropriate for children.
A healthy relationship with your children is an even better option. It will help you discuss the Internet’s dos and don’ts with them without sounding preachy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Internet safety is very essential for everyone, especially for our children. You should always use the protected wifi network and secure your network with a network security key.
If you take proper precautions you can save yourself from hacking, phishing, spyware and virus attacks, identity thefts, cyberbullying, child pornography, etc. In the worst case if you become the victim of an online attack then immediately inform the authorities.
If you have any quarry related to the topic then drop a message in the comment box.
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FAQs
Why it is important for children to learn about internet safety?
Children are very vulnerable to online threats. They don’t know anything about what is wrong and what is right or how to deal with an unknown person. we have to guide them and protect them from bullies, cyber criminals, or any online predators.
Like the real world, we also have to guide and save them in a virtual world.
What are the risk of Internet safety?
There are many risks involved when you use the internet without knowing the safety protocol.
- Cyberbullying
- Identity Theft
- Malware and Viruses
- Online Scams
- Addiction
- Exposure to Inappropriate Content
- Cyberstalking
- Privacy Concerns
To tackle these risks read the above article and know more about internet safety.
