The time difference between building something and tearing it down can be an eye opener. Demolition crews can tumble buildings that took years of labor in a few minutes. A week of casual eating seems to reverse months of sweat in the gym. The disconnect also applies to online security.

Our finances can quickly unravel with online security breaches. A hacked bank account can undo years of dedicated saving. Routine downloading may allow internet crooks to hack your website or even take over your computer.

So, how can we enjoy the benefits of connectivity but minimize the liabilities? Here are a few ideas:

Password Recovery Answers

Most of us focus password security on our logins. However, password recoveries are important yet often overlooked. We typically give literal answers to recovery questions. You should take the time to pick random answers for bank accounts, brokerage sites and other financial websites.

Why? Your social media posts may show the info needed for literal answers to recovery questions. Where we grew up, maiden names, and pets are random tidbits that Google+ or Facebook posts may reveal.

Solutions:

• Use the same randomness for recovery answers as your passwords.
• Consider apps that store and encrypt passwords. Why? A simple virus can compromise passwords stored on a hard drive.
• Use a Virtual Private Network to encrypt your real time logins. (more on this later)
• Manage your social media settings. You can limit profiles to smaller and more trusted circles.
• Separate business and personal life on social media. Establish a unique web presence for your small business.
• Be conscious of how what you post may indirectly affect internet security.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN uses encryption to enhance your password and online security. You will have more assurance logging in to various accounts at home or the office. There are tons of VPN apps available for PC, Mac, iPhone, and Android to protect you and your information while you’re online.

Note: Even with a VPN, you should consider unique passwords for each account. This will limit damage if cyber-crooks somehow get the password for a single account.

Mobile VPNs: Our mobile devices facilitate connectivity. However, much of this surfing may occur on unsecured networks. A mobile VPN encrypts web traffic if someone is snooping while you’re at the coffee shop or airport.

Users can stay connected with greater security on the go. Executive Producer Elliott Broidy is known to use mobile VPNs when managing productions in different locations.

Stop! Don’t Click that Link! (At least yet)

Phishing scams have evolved and continued unabated. Wily crooks will mask their URLs to resemble brand name companies. An email from yourbank.com may show as your-bank.com. The login credentials are exposed after clicking and signing into a bogus site.

Solutions:

• Avoid clicking emailed links in general. You can simply log in to online banking if you get an alert of some kind.
• Hover (don’t click!) your mouse over the link. The link destination will appear at the bottom of your screen.
• Mobile devices have smaller screens and keys. Squint, zoom or whatever else to ensure the link is legitimate.

Download with Caution

Bit torrents are apps that allow peer to peer sharing of files. Aside from copyright issues, pirated downloads can wreak havoc on your computer. The result may be losing control of your computer and sensitive information.

Why? Many bootleg videos carry malware, such as Trojan computer viruses. If you choose to download videos, consider sites such as Hulu or Crackle. Watching some commercials is a small price to pay for the added peace of mind.

You should also use basic discretion. How legitimate is the site? Are there efficient ways to get information directly from the source/company?

Summary

Technology is an asset to better manage our business and personal life. With basic precautions such as those outlined above, you can make informed decisions online.