8 Ways to Protect Your Personal Data from Hackers

Personal information is always at risk of being stolen or hacked in this digital world. Hackers are getting better at what they do, so keeping your personal information safe should be a top concern. This article tells you 8 useful things you can do to keep your data safe from hackers.

  • Tricia Quitales
  • 3 min read
8 Ways to Protect Your Personal Data from Hackers
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It’s more important than ever to keep your personal information safe because online threats are always changing. Here are 8 easy ways in this piece that will keep hackers from getting to your information. These tips will help you stay one step ahead of possible threats by making strong passwords and using encryption tools. You can make it much less likely that someone will steal your personal information by doing these things.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

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A strong, one-of-a-kind password for each account is one of the best ways to keep your information safe. There should be a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters in a strong password. Don’t use everyday words or personal details that are simple to figure out.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

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Two-factor authentication (2FA) makes things even safer by requiring you to prove who you are in a second way, like an authentication app or text message. Someone could figure out your password, but they would still not be able to get into your account without the second factor. 2FA is a simple but effective way to keep your online accounts safe.

3. Keep Your Software Up to Date

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Hackers often get into your data by taking advantage of flaws in old software. You can be sure you have the latest security fixes by keeping your operating system, apps, and antivirus software up to date. A simple but important way to protect your personal information is to keep your gadgets up to date.

4. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

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Phishing scams get you to give up personal information by pretending to be banks or online stores that you trust. Always check the email address of the sender, and be careful clicking on links or downloading files from people you don’t know. Data theft can be avoided by being wary of emails and texts that you didn’t ask for.

5. Be Cautious of Phishing Scams

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Phishing scams get you to give up personal information by pretending to be banks or online stores that you trust. Always check the email address of the sender, and be careful when clicking on links or downloading files from people you don’t know. Data theft can be avoided by being wary of emails and texts that you didn’t ask for.

6. Use Encryption for Sensitive Files

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Protecting private files by turning them into code that can’t be read by anyone else without the right decoding key is what encryption does. Protect files that have sensitive data in them, like passwords, bank records, or personal information. If you secure your files, hackers will not be able to get to them even if they are stolen.

7. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

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You can find fraud early on by checking your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for strange behavior on a regular basis. Set up alerts with your bank or service providers to let you know if someone else is using your account without your permission. If you stay alert, you can act quickly if someone gets access to your personal information.

8. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions

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Hackers can easily steal your information from public Wi-Fi networks because they are often not protected. Do not do private activities like shopping or banking online when you are connected to public Wi-Fi. A VPN or a secure, private connection is the best way to keep your information safe while you’re online.

Written by: Tricia Quitales

Tricia is a recent college graduate whose true passion lies in writing—a hobby she’s cherished for years. Now a Content Writer at Illumeably, Tricia combines her love for storytelling with her fascination for personal growth. She’s all about continuous learning, taking risks, and using her words to connect with and inspire others.

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