It’s 2024, and digital technologies now control every aspect of our lives, from online learning and remote work to communication apps and banking. The availability of digital tools has only accelerated, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic thrust online users into the “new digital normal.”
While digital technology has brought productivity and convenience, it also poses substantial risks from cyberattacks and data theft. Therefore, we must take adequate precautions to ensure we don’t get digitally shredded or robbed.
The good news is that online safety has never been easier. With a few steps, anyone can learn to be safe and secure online, enjoying all the rich benefits that digital technologies bring without the downsides.
Most people have heard of the term “cybersecurity,” typically defined as “measures taken to protect a computer or a computer system against unauthorized access or attack.”
We will discuss the following four different layers:
• Guarding online accounts.
• Guarding web browsers.
• Guarding your PC.
• Guarding yourself.

Guarding Online Accounts
As online users, most activities rely on creating an account that uniquely identifies us among millions or billions using the same service, such as Instagram or YouTube. Protecting your online accounts is essential for safety. Consider the following tips:
• Use a strong password to decrease the probability of someone guessing it.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA) to exponentially increase online account security, requiring two separate pieces of the puzzle to gain access.
• Use a password manager to generate strong, unique alphanumeric passwords for different sites, as it’s challenging to remember multiple passwords.

Guarding Web Browsers
Your web browser is your portal to the internet. Popular browsers include Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari and Mozilla Firefox. To improve functionality and security,use extensions or add-ons to enhance your web browser.Some popular security-focused options include:
• uBlock Origin (an ad-blocker).
• Privacy Badger (a privacy guarding tool).
• Decentraleyes (speeds up browsing and protects against tracking).
• HTTPS Everywhere (upgrades insecure browser connections to secure connections).

Guarding Your PC
Your PC, particularly if running Windows OS, is the platform that enables your web browser to function. Keeping your platform stable and secure is critical. Consider:
• Using antivirus software and keeping it updated with the latest definitions.
• Using a PIN or password with auto-lock and turning on user account control (UAC).

Guarding Yourself
Protect yourself against social engineering, a method used to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential or personal information. While securing accounts, browsers, and PCs is crucial, cybersecurity depends on user social engineering awareness. Be cautious of:
• Unsolicited contacts trying to build quick rapport or promote a false sense of urgency.
• Red flags such as requests for sensitive information or immediate action.
• Offers that seem too good to be true.
With social engineers becoming more sophisticated, computer users can only remain immune to manipulation with continued awareness. Remaining vigilant, staying skeptical and verifying suspicious contacts through other channels are essential to guard against these attacks.
By following these tips, one can expect a more robust and secure digital life, keeping threats and risks at bay with less worrying. Happy browsing.