Keeping your online identity safe

The recent Playstation security breach has opened many Internet users’ eyes to the seriousness of online security. If the wrong person gets their hands on your information, there is a possibility that the outcome could be detrimental. Luckily, there are a number of simple steps you can take to better protect your online identity.


Use an encrypted connection

Using an encrypted connection is an unbelievably simple way to attain greater online safety. Many websites, including most social networking sites, have recently adopted more secure connections, although you sometimes need to change the settings to get the extra level of security.


You can figure out whether or not you have encrypted access simply by checking the URL. If the URL begins with “https” instead of “http” you have an encrypted connection. Unfortunately, some sites do not offer encrypted access so this is not always an option.


Use strong passwords

Strong passwords are unbelievably easy to create and can make a tremendous difference in online security. Using a combination of numbers, symbols, spaces and upper- and lowercase letters can help to create a strong password. If you can’t see yourself using a bunch of different characters, at least be sure to use a password that can’t easily be guessed.


It’s also extremely important to use a unique password for each of your accounts. Using the same password on a variety of accounts makes them all vulnerable if just one of them is hacked.

Look out for phishing

Phishing is basically when a hacker poses as a trusted company in order to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and account numbers. It is a rather common practice due to its relative ease – after all, hackers merely need your name and email address to pull this off.


The recent breach of Epsilon was a perfect example. Thousands of names and email addresses were exposed and the companies affected quickly sent out emails telling their clients not to trust any emails that claimed to be from them. Some browsers, but not all, will alert you if a website looks fraudulent, but you still need to be smart to avoid the scams.


These three tips are unbelievably easy to follow through with and instantly increase your online security. If you’d like more information on protecting your online identity, check out this article.