How to protect your gadgets against cyber crime
How much time do you spend online? Even when we are not purposefully browsing the web, we are still connected to it through our mobile devices. Most smartphone apps are linked to Google accounts and only function online. This 24/7 access exposes users to numerous digital threats, from viruses to ID theft.
Luckily, users have powerful defense tools at their disposal. A virtual private network is indispensable for anyone concerned about their safety online. Check the expert review of the best vpn service to see the main distinguishing features of a top digital tool.
All your Internet-connected devices may now be safeguarded with a VPN. Here is a look at the main benefits delivered by the technology in terms of cyber protection.
Why antivirus is not enough
We all know that browsing the web without any antivirus protection is precarious. The files you download and the pages you open may be laced with insidious malware or trojans. Their negative effects range from annoyance to blackmail. Of course, an efficient piece of software can keep these attackers at bay.
However, it is powerless against more advanced methods of cybercrime. Today, hackers and malicious parties may sneak in to steal your sensitive data, and they need not devise any viruses for this purpose. Once you find yourself on a compromised network, your information will be leaked.
These days, cybercrime is a hot topic, as such activity is rampant. Users are instructed on the safest ways to use dating sites, supplied with Instagram security tips, and more. The situation makes VPNs absolutely irreplaceable. Here is why.
How it works
The main principle here is the rerouting of data exchanged between you and the Internet. It is channeled through a dedicated server (located in your country or abroad). The whole session is encrypted and thereby impenetrable to any third-party attacks. Meanwhile, your real IP address (the identifier of your computer) is replaced, disguising the actual location.
Hidden dangers of free Wi-Fi
In our desire to remain connected 24/7, we often resort to hotspots in public places. This is especially popular among travelers, as mobile roaming data cost a lot. However, despite the convenience of instant access, that airport hotspot may not be what it seems.
The second concern is termed man-in-the-middle attacks. This happens when you are on a legit network, but a malicious party interferes with your session and steals the data you share, which may include credit card details and other sensitive information.
You may be using an impostor network set up by crooks. Such hotspots have names very similar to their legit counterparts. They are established for the sole purpose of stealing whatever data is exchanged. Both dangers are eliminated with the help of a VPN.
Safe at home?
It is a mistake to think such threats do not exist on home networks. Your router may look perfectly safe and innocuous. Nevertheless, once it is hacked (which is possible), it compromises all the connected devices. Given the rapid spread of smart home technologies, this could concern everything from your PC to your baby monitor.
All these novelties are trendy, and connectivity helps companies boost sales, but there are hidden dangers. What if hackers acquire access to cameras in your house? They will define what time you leave for work, which provides a perfect tip to burglars.
A VPN is exactly what you need to encrypt your network. Since the government is not doing enough to protect citizens, we have to take a defense in our own hands.
