Staying Safe While Using the Web

Published on: March 19, 2022
Last Updated: October 27, 2022
While there are a lot of advantages of online media, there are risks you need to be aware of. In this article, we will guide you on how to stay safe while using the web.
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Modern technology has changed the world, allowing us to live healthier and happier lives. Most of us use technology during our daily lives to make things easier and offer an all-around better experience.

The internet has had one of the biggest impacts on our lives, connecting people all over the world.

Since it was first created, the internet has given people a way to share information and access resources online for free.

This has impacted various industries all over the world, and the rise of digital media has been one of the most apparent. Modern entertainment is now available through digital platforms, allowing users to watch the latest films and play the latest games.

Because you can access online media anywhere, it means that entertainment is now far more convenient and easier to access than ever before.

One area of the entertainment industry that has been particularly affected by changes to technology and greater access to the internet is the casino industry.

Today, you can easily play casino games at online casinos. These gambling sites are growing in popularity as they offer thousands of games and excellent bonuses.

Brand new online casinos are now available across the US, and review sites like Time2play can help players to find the most reliable new offerings on the market. 

However you choose to spend time online, it’s important to stay safe and protected. While there are a lot of advantages of online media, there are risks you need to be aware of.

Viruses and phishing scams are common, and your personal data could be at risk if you’re not careful. In this guide, you’ll find out more about how to stay safe online. 

Always Check to See if a Site is Trusted

There are now loads of different websites available to use across the internet, each offering different things.

Most of these sites are trustworthy, but there are always sites that may only care about taking your money. If you want to have an enjoyable time online, it’s very important to only ever use sites that you can trust.

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The easiest way to check whether a site can be trusted or not is by reading reviews. Customers will often leave reviews based on their experience, and these can be found on sites such as Trustpilot.

Additionally, you can check to see if the site has a green padlock in the address bar. This shows that encryption is being used and is particularly important when it comes to making an online purchase. 

Only Ever Use Secure Payments

A growing number of people now use the internet to make purchases, buying everything from the latest clothes to films, food, and music.

If you want to make purchases online, you need to make sure that you use a secure payment method.

Most websites accept a wide range of payment methods, but it’s a good idea to choose one that you know is secure.

If you’re unsure, you can read more about secure payment methods online.

Making purchases with a bank card or transfer is generally easier, but it does put your personal details at risk. If you want to remain as safe as possible, you should use an alternative method.

Most sites will now accept payments made using eWallets such as PayPal, and some will also accept cryptocurrencies. These methods offer an advantage as you won’t be entering your full payment details.

Practice Good Online Security

Staying safe online means always practicing good security.

You should ensure that your passwords are secure and that you always take care to avoid any phishing scams.

A secure password should always consist of numbers and alphanumeric characters and shouldn’t be one you use anywhere else. It’s important to have a secure password on your personal accounts, especially if they have your banking information.

Phishing scams are also something that you’ll need to be aware of. This is where someone tries to extract information from you by pretending to be someone else.

You should be wary of emails you get from customer support and remember that no customer service team will ever ask for your password or bank details.

Always double-check with the support team if you’re unsure, as you don’t want to have your account compromised. 

Use a VPN

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are used to increase privacy and security while online. When you use a VPN, your online activity is routed through an encrypted tunnel, protecting your data and identity.

Browsing the web normally means your IP address is visible and if you’re on a public network, your activity can be seen.

Privacy is an important concern for anyone but it’s especially important if you’re making payments online. 

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There are lots of different cheap VPN services available. Some offer more features than others, but all will provide additional security and protection when you’re online.

You can usually add a VPN to your computer as well as your phone, and this will ensure you’re always protected when going online. Your online activity will then be encrypted, ensuring that your privacy is upheld. 

Make Use of Two-Factor Authentication 

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that you can apply to your online accounts.

Instead of simply logging into your account with a username and password, this means you’ll use an additional code to log in.

Two-factor authentication is normally set up with your phone to receive a code by text or using an app such as Google Authenticator. 

If you have two-factor authentication set up, this ensures that even if someone were to obtain your username and password, they still wouldn’t be able to access your account.

This is especially important for sites such as online banking and those that have your payments details. It’s recommended to use this technology as much as possible to protect yourself online. 

Avoid Public Networks

Public WiFi networks are those you can connect to for free while outside. While these may be useful and can save you from using up too much data, they also pose a threat to your security.

While on a public network, your online activity can be monitored. On top of this, it can potentially give access to your device to hackers.

If you want to ensure that you’re always safe while using the web, it’s important to avoid public networks.

Ensure that when you do connect to a WiFi network, it’s one that is encrypted. As long as you need a password to enter, it should be safe to use.

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Written by Allison Langstone

Allison produces content for a business SAAS but also contributes to EarthWeb frequently, using her knowledge of both business and technology to bring a unique angle to the site.
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Last Updated: October 27, 2022
While there are a lot of advantages of online media, there are risks you need to be aware of. In this article, we will guide you on how to stay safe while using the web.
EarthWeb is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Stay on top of the latest technology trends — delivered directly to your inbox, free!

Subscription Form Posts

Don't worry, we don't spam

Written by Allison Langstone

Allison produces content for a business SAAS but also contributes to EarthWeb frequently, using her knowledge of both business and technology to bring a unique angle to the site.

Latest Stories