Cybersecurity is a priority for anyone who uses the internet. Everything from our web browsing to mobile devices to internet of things products — smart TVs, security cameras, video doorbells, etc. — puts us at risk, which is why cybersecurity is more important than ever.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency defines cybersecurity as “the art of protecting networks, devices, and data from unauthorized access or criminal use and the practice of ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.” In other words, cybersecurity is protecting you, your information, and your devices on the internet.

Start improving your security today with these five top cybersecurity tips:

1. Enable two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security. This method requires more than one method of authentication to verify a user’s identity for login. For Google, Facebook, and Dropbox accounts, you’ll have to provide your password and the six-digit verification code sent to your phone when you want to sign in on a new device for the first time.
2. Create strong, complex passwords. A strong password contains at least ten characters and includes numbers, symbols, and a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters. You should not use passwords that are easy to guess, such as your birthday or children’s names, and avoid using the same password for all your different accounts. By using a password manager or software that keeps all your passwords in one place, you won’t have to remember or write down the login information for any of your sites.
3. Install an antivirus software to combat viruses, spyware, malware, phishing attacks, and more. As long as you’re connected to the web, it’s impossible to have complete and total protection from these attacks. However, if antivirus software is installed and up to date, it should prevent digital security threats before they happen. 
4. Check if a site is using HTTPS. HTTPS is the secure version of hypertext transfer protocol, or HTTP, the foundation for the internet. (The S at the end stands for “secure.”) This means that the information that flows from server to browser is encrypted, protecting potentially sensitive information from being stolen as it is transferred. Double-check that a site is using HTTPS before you give away personal or private information.
5. Turn off the ‘save password’ feature. While it’s convenient to store personal banking or credit card information to make it easier for you to buy a product or pay a bill in the future, it also makes your personal information and accounts more readily available to digital security threats.

By practicing these cybersecurity tips, you will find yourself more secure in cyberspace. To learn more about the importance of cybersecurity, especially in a real estate transaction, give us a call today.