Key Takeaways:
- Make your passwords secure, don’t share them, and update them often.
- Be wary of unexpected emails or texts requesting financial information.
- Use verified security software to keep your devices safe.
- Keep your software security up-to-date.
The modern world is more digitized than ever. Almost everyone you know has internet access and shares information on it daily. It’s become common to have devices in our hands at all times, making the internet extremely accessible.
This increased access brings a lot of benefits, like making it easier to do everything from shopping to making music and managing projects. Yet, we should be careful, as this constant connection also makes our personal data vulnerable. Financial data is especially at risk in a super-connected world. While there are many great tools to help you manage your finances, it’s important to stay vigilant to keep them safe.
Tips for Protecting Financial Data
While financial data protection may seem like an overwhelming task, it doesn’t have to be. Simple, consistent efforts can make a big difference to keep you safe. When it comes to protecting your financial data, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
1. Lock your devices
Your tablet, laptop, and computer should always be locked when not in use. It’s best to program them to automatically lock after a minute when they’re not being used. This makes it harder for someone to steal and access your devices. Devices should then unlock with a password, passcode, or biometric lock, like a fingerprint or facial recognition.
2. Use secure passwords
Use strong, complex passwords for all your devices and financial log-ins. Tough passwords use eight or more letters and numbers, and special characters. It’s important to change your passwords often and use them for one account at a time. You can also consider using multi-factor authentication to boost security.
Never share your passwords with anyone. If you need someone else to access your financial data, such as a family member, business partner, or accountant, give them a login with the access they need. You can also create a PDF or other secure document and send information via encrypted email.
3. Access your data on secure connections only
Never access your financial data over public wi-fi. It’s far too vulnerable to hacks and can put your information at risk. Ideally, you should use mobile data and a VPN when accessing your financial data in public. Always manually log out of financial sites at all times, but especially in a public setting.
4. Keep your security software up-to-date
Everyone should have security software on their devices. Security software for Windows and Macs can vary, but most are compatible with either operating system. One of the most common and reliable is Norton 360 security software.
After installing your anti-spam and anti-virus software, ensure all automatic updates are enabled. Quality security programs regularly enhance their measures based on current conditions.
5. Use verified software only
Before you purchase or download security software, ensure that it’s authentic. Some retailers sell “cracked” software that’s been modified to bypass copy protection. This type of software is extremely dangerous as it leaves your devices vulnerable.
There are a few ways to tell if the software you plan to buy is legitimate. First, you need to pay for it. “Free” software is usually laced with backdoors to hack your system. Second, it comes from the manufacturer's website or a verified retailer. And finally, it contains a digital signature from the developer.
If the software you purchase meets all the above criteria, it is likely safe to purchase. However, you should always run an antivirus program after you download anything new. This precaution protects your device from any potential issues.
6. Be wary of phishing scams
Scammers tend to target your financial data through phishing scams. To protect yourself from these scams, be cautious of emails and text links. If you didn’t expect contact regarding your financial data, it’s best not to open an email or text. Any link could easily be malware or a virus designed to hack into your system. Directly contact the purported sender with the information you already have to discover if the contact is legitimate.
7. Don’t skimp on software spending
There are some cases where “dupes” are just as good as the main brand, but that’s not the case with financial or security software. It’s important to get your finances handled correctly and safely. The best way to do that is to make your selection based on what software is the most secure, not what costs the least.
This is one area where skimping can have long-lasting detrimental effects. While you don’t have to use exactly what software tax preparers or accountants use, you still want to find something of quality. Do your research before making a purchase to ensure you have the right tools for your needs.
8. Create backups
No matter how well you protect your financial data, there is always a chance that something could go wrong. Over the past decade, financial institutions, governmental agencies, and other organizations have suffered data breaches. While you can’t protect against everything, you can minimize damage.
Create backups of your financial data so you have everything at the ready should an issue occur. This can make a big impact if your information is used to make fraudulent withdrawals or payments.
Protect Your Financial Data With Programs for SoftwareCW
Once you understand how to protect financial data, you’ll be more at ease in your online operations. Start by finding the right accounting or finance program for your needs and make sure you’re up to date on the latest antivirus software. You can find both from the experts at SoftwareCW, a verified seller.
At SoftwareCW, we pride ourselves on being a verified retailer with prices that fit any budget. It’s our goal to get everyone the best programs for their digital needs. We offer instant download with a unique Software Activation Code and a 10% discount for new and loyal customers. Find the right software for your needs today.