Simple steps to strengthen your online security
The prevalence of online fraud in Canada has surged as more individuals engage in digital transactions and communications.
An Interac cybersecurity survey highlights that 86% of Canadians are weary of constant fraud attempts, with more than half facing scams weekly. Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often using personal information to masquerade as trusted contacts.
To combat these threats, Canadians must adopt proactive digital hygiene measures. Interac has outlined a three-step digital health checkup that should be conducted every three months to assess and enhance online security.
Diagnosis: Begin by evaluating your online accounts. Ensure passwords are strong, unique, and not reused across different sites. Review your social media privacy settings to control what personal information is publicly visible. Check your devices for necessary data protection.
Remedy: After identifying weaknesses, take swift action. Create robust passwords that incorporate letters, numbers, and symbols. Eliminate duplicated passwords across accounts.
Set social media accounts to private, and be cautious about sharing personal details online. Install antivirus software on all devices and enable biometric security features for added protection.
Prevention: Strengthen your security by implementing additional safeguards. Use a password for device access and activate two-factor authentication on all accounts, especially banking apps. Secure your home network by changing default usernames and passwords for your Wi-Fi router. Refrain from using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.
By integrating these digital hygiene practices into their online routines, Canadians can better safeguard themselves against the increasing risks of online fraud. Being proactive and informed is key to ensuring personal and financial safety in a digital world.