The Impact of Protecting Your Identity in the Digital Age
Technology is important in our society, making things easier with online shopping, internet banking, and AI. However, the more we rely on these advancements, the more aware we become of the risks of identity theft.
In recent years, Australia has witnessed a steady increase in the number of scam victims. According to the ABS, It has increased from 6.9% in 2020–2021; to 8.1% in 2021–2022. For individuals who have been exposure to some form of scam has increased by 10% from 55 in 2020–21; to 65% in the fiscal year of 2021–2022.
Are there any measures that you can take to safeguard both yourself and your data? Indeed, there is.
Change your passwords regularly
To maintain the safety of your identity, ensure that you update and change your passwords regularly. This is to prevent scammers and hackers from having access to your personal, financial, and medical information.
Experts advise to use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters for strong passwords. Strong passwords would also be between 8 to 12 characters. Please avoid using names. Your passwords need to be unique, and therefore harder for hackers to crack into your account.
Use a password manager
Don’t write your passwords, but use a password manager. A password manager is a special software that securely stores and manages online credentials. It helps users generate and securely store long, unique passwords for all their online accounts.
The main goal of a password manager is to make it easier to remember different passwords for online services. Users only need to remember one password, their control password, which unlocks their password manager. The manager then fills in the login information for websites and online services automatically. This not only simplices the login process but also enhances security by promoting the use of unique and strong password for each account.
Password managers generate secure, random passwords and keep your sensitive information safe, like your banking details. Besides that, certain password managers also can use biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, which adds an extra layer of security and convenience. With a password manager, you can securely store and manage your online credentials, improving your online security.
Update your devices
Remember to keep your devices, like computers or smartphones, up to date with the latest software, even if younger generations are already aware of this. This will not only help to fix any bugs but also address any potential vulnerabilities that could make your devices more susceptible to hackers. Therefore, it’s important to have the latest software — since this helps avoid your data being stolen.
Consider purchasing antivirus software
While antivirus software can't completely stop all malware, it's essential for improving digital security. Antiviral software is made to find and stop different types of harmful software viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and root-kits.
However, the benefits are worth it since antivirus software is prophylactic by detecting and removing viruses from computer systems, including things you download, preventing potential damage to data and system integrity.
Other features that may be included for this antiviral software include offers real-time and scheduled protection, allowing for continuous monitoring and scanning of your system for potential threats, as well as security enhancement of your devices, anti-malware capabilities, VPN, and backup storage via the cloud.
Avoid Public Networks
It is recommended to not access sensitive information while using a public Wi-Fi network. While it might be deemed appropriate for certain activities, such as browsing for directions, when using public Wi-Fi, it is strongly advised to exercise caution and not perform tasks such as paying bills or making purchases to minimise any potential security threats. One effective way to enhance security on public Wi-Fi is to use a virtual private network (VPN), which creates a private network or VPN tunnel, adding an extra layer of security to your connection.
It is important to be aware that public Wi-Fi networks can present security risks, and it is crucial that you take necessary precautions to safeguard your personal information. While the recent proliferation of free, public Wi-Fi has been beneficial, it has also brought about significant security concerns. However, by taking a few precautions, you can keep your information safe and secure.
To be safe in public hotspots, only use networks from places you can visit in person. Remember, to log out of any unnecessary accounts, close any unused applications, refrain from entering sensitive information, and maintain a limited list of saved Wi-Fi networks to only include those you trust. After disconnecting from a public network, it’s recommended to scan your devices for malware with antivirus software, restart your device to break the connection between it and a potential attacker, and purge unnecessary networks from your preferred network list. If possible, using your mobile hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi is also advised.
Public Wi-Fi networks can be a convenient way to access the internet, but they have been maligned as a dangerous space where your information is at risk. Online security is a big concern due to spyware and harmful sites that deceive users into sharing passwords or downloading harmful software.
It is important to avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when dealing with sensitive information to minimize security risks. Using a VPN, being cautious about network connections, and taking proactive measures to secure your devices are essential steps to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi.
Check your financial information
If you are worried about a potential scam or threat to your personal security, please check with your financial institution. It also helps to check your financial statements, e.g. credit card statement, if you believe something that is suspicious.
If your banking cards have been stolen, or lost, please contact your financial institution as soon as possible. The bank or financial institution can cancel and reissue a replace card to you as soon as possible. This is to prevent fraud and for others to steal your identity and other personal information.
Treat your personal information like cash
Everyone has the right to privacy, and there it is important to treat your data like cash. Keep your personal information private. Only share it when you are required to, and if it is necessary. Access to your sensitive information is limited to authorized persons who have been granted permission. Consent of the owner of personal information needs to be confirmed in writing or if it is summoned for the legal purposes.
In the privacy policy, most organisations in Australia must include:
- their name and contact details
- what kinds of personal information they collect and store
- how they collect personal information and where it is stored
- the reasons they need to collect personal information
- how they’ll use and disclose personal information
- How you can access your personal information, or ask for a correction.
- how to lodge a complaint if you think your information has mishandled, and how they’ll handle your complaint
- If they plan to share your information outside of Australia, they should let you know which countries it will be shared with, if possible.
It helps to be vigilant with your own or your family’s personal information. Hackers and scammers are becoming more clever in seeking ways to access your information.
You're familiar with the age-old saying: "If something seems too good to be true, it likely is."
