#makeITsafePH: Protect your personal information online

We live out a good portion of our lives on the internet, the World Wide Web being a major source of information and entertainment, and a venue for social interaction. The internet has changed how we live our lives in countless positive ways, but we cannot deny that it has its downsides as well.

In this millennium, we tend to forget that every time we make a transaction online or post on social media, we give out vital information, making us vulnerable to crimes such as identity theft, credit card scams, cyberbullying, and even rape, burglary or kidnapping.

With these crimes on the rise, we have to take extra steps to ensure that our personal information cannot be accessed by unscrupulous individuals.

Passwords

Identity theft is currently the top cybercrime, which can have long-lasting repercussions and destroy your privacy and online reputation. So how do you prevent this? First step is to create strong passwords or personal identification numbers for your bank, credit cards, laptop or computers, and other mobile devices. If possible, do not save them on your gadgets. Memorize them instead.

Another important thing is the proper disposal of your computer, cellphone or tablet. Make sure that all personal information stored in them are deleted before selling or throwing them away.

Social Media

With the onset of mobile gadgets, more people, especially the youth, now use social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. Although these apps make it easier to communicate with family and friends, they also make the young vulnerable to cyberbullying, rape or kidnapping.

At home, we strictly regulate the use of social media on my niece and nephew since there are many strangers who ask to be their “friend” on Facebook. We always remind them never to chat with strangers. If you have children or teens at home, closely monitor their browsing activities, most especially their social media accounts.

I know, posting ATM (at the moment) photos and using the “check-in” features of Facebook is trending nowadays, but giving away your location has its risks. Same thing when you are posting your vacation photos online.

Also, refrain from putting all your personal information on social media apps, such as your address, birthday and phone numbers. These can give hackers a good chance of stealing vital information.

Credit Cards
Nowadays, we make transactions on the net almost daily, may it be purchasing stuff, booking a cab, or reserving a table in a restaurant. We enjoy the convenience, right? But, again, there are risks here. Most of these transactions require us to give out our credit card information.

Only make transactions with reputable companies that you think will keep your information safe. I have purchased a book on Amazon, eBooks from Play Books, some stuff through Lazada, and booked hotels at Booking.com, which are all very reliable sites. So far, I am happy with them.

Stay safe online

Recently, Globe Telecom, a big player in the communications and IT industry, launched its #makeITsafePH campaign. A purveyor of digital lifestyle, Globe came up with this campaign as it recognizes its responsibility in educating the public with the importance of cyber security.

With millions of subscribers nationwide, Globe has taken it upon itself to keep not only its subscribers, but the entire populace, safe from numerous threats that lurk online. The campaign covers corporations, SMEs, government agencies, educational institutions and the general public.

Globe Telecom takes cybercrimes seriously. So should you. Protect yourself, safeguard your personal information online.