Emails have become an essential tool for communication in both personal and professional settings. As such, it is crucial to protect your account from hacking and other forms of cybercrime. Here are five simple solutions for keeping your email account secure.
1- Use Strong Passwords
One of the most basic steps to secure your email account is to use a strong password. A strong password is typically at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name or birthdate in your password. Additionally, consider using a password manager to generate and store unique and complex passwords for each of your online accounts.
2- Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication requires an additional step to verify your identity before you can access your email. This step could be in the form of a verification code sent to your phone number or an authentication app installed on your device. With 2FA enabled, even if a hacker manages to guess your password, they will not be able to access your account without access to the second verification form.
3- Use a VPN
Data transmitted over public Wi-Fi networks is not encrypted, so third parties can easily intercept it. To prevent this from happening, use a VPN to encrypt all traffic passing through your public wi-fi connection. Using a VPN is also great for accessing geographically restricted websites and services. In addition to using a VPN, we recommend using a private browser. Using such a browser means your web requests are routed through several nodes and IP addresses before reaching the server you visit, guaranteeing your safety.
4- Be Careful with Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to gain access to personal information, including email login credentials. These scams often involve an email that appears to be from a legitimate source but is actually from a hacker trying to trick you. Be wary of emails that ask for personal information, especially if they seem suspicious or out of the blue. Instead of responding, verify if the request is legitimate by contacting the source directly.
5- Hire an IT Management Company
While it is essential to make personal efforts to secure your accounts, hiring an IT management company can also be helpful. An IT firm has the resources and expertise to monitor for cyber threats and ensure the security of your accounts. Additionally, they can provide guidance and support with implementing solutions for keeping your accounts secure. It is important to ensure that your chosen company is qualified and can handle all your needs. Also, ensure that they are trustworthy and have a good reputation.
Your email account is only as secure as the steps you take to protect it. Following simple security measures, such as using strong passwords and enabling 2FA, will help limit your exposure to malicious cyber threats. Contact an IT management service today for more information on how they can help ensure the safety of your personal or business information.
