Protecting your Digital Identity

The Internet is full of fun, useful and necessary information. It's easy to pay bills, go shopping, keep in touch with family and friends, and manage a majority of life without ever leaving the computer. While all of these things make life easier, they also open users up to fraud, theft and danger. Too many people don't understand the necessity of protecting their digital identity until it's too late.

Passwords

Don't use the same password for financial accounts that you use for social and email accounts. It's a pain to remember username and passwords for several different sites, but it's also essential. This way, if a social account is hacked, the hacker doesn't gain access to your banking or credit card accounts.

It's also important to change passwords every few months. Make your password something difficult to discover. Don't use names of family members, birth dates or nicknames. The password should contain both letters and numbers, and it should be at least seven characters long. The longer the password, the harder it is to guess. If you're using a public Internet connection never click the save password option. This will give anyone who uses the computer after you access to your personal information.

Email

Never click a link sent to you in an email. Even if the email comes from someone you trust, it's better to type the URL into the address bar. This is a frequently used hacker trick, and once you click the link, you are taken to a page that allows them access to your personal information. Speaking of personal information, never give your social security number, address or bank information in an email. Reputable companies will never ask for this information in this way.

Wireless Home Networks

Make sure you set a password on your wireless network. The best option for home users is WEP security. This allows people approved to access the network with a password, but prevents outsiders from using it. If a hacker makes it onto your home network, it's possible for them to access the attached computers and gain access to your personal information.

Software

Every computer should have virus software that protects from malicious viruses that broadcast personal information over the Internet. It's also important to keep your computer up to date. Make sure to apply all updates from the manufacturer of the operating system. If you do this, you are better equipped to protect yourself from those who may attempt to bypass security to access your information.

-John Lembo