Tips for Staying Safe Online
Staying safe online requires digital awareness, education, and proactive habits:
Use Strong Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defence against unauthorised access.
- Create complex and unique passwords: Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, ensuring they are longer than six characters.
- Avoid personal information: Don’t use obvious personal details such as your name, date of birth, or email address.
- Use a password manager: These tools can generate and securely store your passwords, reducing the temptation to reuse them across accounts.
- Regular updates: Change your passwords periodically, especially if a platform has reported a data breach.
Share Wisely & Thoughtfully
Sharing on social media can be fun, but it’s important to think carefully about what you’re posting and who can see it.
- Limit sensitive information: Avoid revealing sensitive details like your address, phone number, or financial information online.
- Think before you post: Think twice before sharing photos or videos of yourself. Consider how they might be perceived by others or misused.
- Seek a second opinion: If you’re uncertain about sharing something, take a moment to consult with a trusted friend or family member. A second opinion can save you from making a mistake.
Adjust Your Privacy Settings
Social media platforms and websites offer privacy settings for a reason - use them to your advantage.
- Review settings regularly: Regularly review and update your privacy settings, as platforms often introduce new features or policies.
- Limit your audience: Set your accounts to “friends only” or “followers only.”
- Remember the ripple effect: Even with privacy settings, your posts can still be shared by others within your network, potentially reaching people you don’t know.
Be Cautious When Connecting with Others
While the internet allows us to connect with people around the world, it’s essential to exercise caution when interacting with strangers.
- Guard personal information: Never share personal information with someone you haven’t met in person.
- Avoid risky content: Avoid sending photos or videos that could leave you in a vulnerable or compromising position.
- Trust your instincts: If someone pressures you to share something or makes you uncomfortable, end the conversation immediately and report them to the platform’s support team.
Maintain a Healthy Balance
It’s easy to spend hours online, but too much screen time can negatively impact your mental health and overall wellbeing.
- Set time limits: Reduce aimless scrolling and dedicate time to meaningful online activities.
- Engage offline: Balance your digital life by reading, playing sports, or spending time outdoors.
- Recharge regularly: Taking breaks helps you refocus and build meaningful in-person connections.
By following these tips and adopting safer online habits, you can make the most of everything the digital world has to offer without compromising your security or wellbeing.
Let’s make Safer Internet Day a reminder to stay secure and balanced online. If you’d like more tailored tips for protecting yourself on Instagram, TikTok, SnapChat, and more, read our guide for staying safe on social media.
