Good digital hygiene, or online or cyber hygiene, involves being mindful of your online activities and taking steps to secure your digital devices, networks, and online accounts. This includes regularly updating your software, using strong and unique passwords, being cautious when opening emails or clicking on links from unknown sources, and regularly backing up your data. It also involves educating yourself about the latest digital threats and taking steps to protect your online privacy by being mindful of the information you share online. By following these and other digital hygiene practices, you can help protect yourself and your devices from digital threats and keep your online experience safe and secure.
The importance of good digital hygiene
Cyber hygiene refers to the set of practices aimed at maintaining the security and integrity of personal and organizational data stored on digital devices. Regular software updates, strong password management, and data backup are all essential elements of good cyber hygiene, along with other security measures like multi-factor authentication, monitoring for suspicious activity, and keeping up to date with the latest threats and trends in the cyber security landscape. By adopting good cyber hygiene practices, organizations and individuals can reduce their risk of cyberattacks and minimize the impact of data breaches, if they do occur.
Maintaining and securing your digital devices and information go hand in hand. By keeping your software updated and organized, you not only ensure a smoother and more efficient performance, but you also reduce the risk of security threats that could potentially compromise your data and systems. Other good digital hygiene practices, such as using strong passwords and monitoring for suspicious activity, also serve both maintenance and security purposes. By prioritizing and integrating these best practices into your daily routine, you can optimize the performance and security of your digital devices and protect your personal and organizational information from cyber threats.
Digital Hygiene Basics
Use strong, unique Passwords:
One of the digital hygiene basics is to always ensure that you’re using strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Using the same weak password for all your online accounts means that if a hacker can get into one of your accounts, they can use that stolen password to access your other accounts, too.
Install the latest Updates:
Every time your computer, phone or tablet asks you to install the latest update, make sure you do as soon as possible. These software updates usually include updates that can help to protect your device from the latest malware.
Delete unused Apps and old Accounts:
Maybe you downloaded an app one day just because you were bored, or you created a new account to make a one-off online purchase. But these unused apps and accounts can pose a cyber security threat. For example, old apps that no longer receive updates mean they are not as well protected as newer apps with more frequent updates. The same goes for old accounts you’ve created that you no longer use.
Install Antivirus Software:
Installing the right kind of antivirus software will give you an edge when it comes to protecting your devices while you’re online. Many internet security software subscription services perform constant online scans to protect your devices from cyber-attacks and will notify you if they’ve discovered a cyber threat or a breach. By keeping on top of the latest online security updates, you’re helping to keep your device clean and virus-free.
Make digital hygiene a Priority
Practicing good digital hygiene means that it becomes second nature – just like washing your hands and brushing your teeth. Online hygiene isn’t the kind of thing you need to do only once every so often, but rather something you need to think of regularly. By making these tips a part of your digital hygiene routine, you’re taking steps towards better managing your digital footprint – which can make it more difficult for cyber criminals to target you.
