For a few years, I even have been answering questions on technology and the digital lifestyle on my national radio show and podcast. At that time, I had heard all the things.
I also notice trends. Sometimes everyone wants to find out about application privacy.
Increasingly, I’m hearing from individuals who are being followed online — or who suspect they are.
For many who are being tracked or harassed digitally, that is a terrifying experience that needs to be taken very seriously. Here is my guide to protecting yourself online.
A note about stalkers and digital spies
One of my listeners, Rhonda from Boston, called because a hacker had been stalking her for seven years. They disabled her home’s security system, broke into her automotive, and adjusted her passwords. Jill from Phoenix said she has been coping with similar invasive issues for the past two years.
One family’s troubles resulted in arrest after stalker deceived daughter of college age calling my program.
In my experience, these stalkers are almost at all times individuals who are or have been close to the victim.
If something strange happens – your passwords are hacked, someone logs into your account, you find an AirTag in your automotive or in your bag – take into consideration who in your life may be behind it.
I’m not saying this to scare you or make you query your pals and family members. As a substitute, determining who’s behind these invasions can take a very long time, and you need to think logically from the beginning.
Start with the router
I like to start here because so many individuals forget how much information someone who knows the router login has. In theory, they’ll see what you do online and what devices are connected.
This particularly may be dangerous. It allows the stalker to see if you are at home and if you are using the Web out of your phone, for instance.
If you’re concerned about someone accessing your devices or knowing an excessive amount of about your life, buy a recent router. Be certain that reset the default password as soon as possible.
Change your passwords
Are you recently divorced? You’ve gotten to do a lot of work to unravel your digital life out of your spouse.
Whether the one that is harassing you is your ex or not, they might have ended up in your accounts and that’s a big problem. Start with crucial login details – like email, cloud storage, and checking account – and alter your passwords.
No repetitive passwords and do not use anything easy to guess. Think about using a password manager to keep track of them.
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Use stronger two-factor authentication
Add an additional layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication. Yes, you can do it via text message, nevertheless it’s not probably the most secure way. I like to recommend using an authenticator app. These apps generate one-time login codes. You wish a username, password and code to access your account.
Hunt for malware
Check your monthly data usage, search for unexplained charges in your bill, and treat sudden pop-ups as red flags. Use antivirus software to scan devices for malware or spyware that could be installed.
If the difficulty is along with your phone, a factory reset is the easiest method to start over. Scroll down to #2 for instructions on how to do this on iPhone or Android. Remember to back up your photos, videos and messages first.
Update your software
Be certain all of your devices are running the newest versions of operating systems and software. It patches a security hole that hackers could exploit.
Seek the advice of with a cybersecurity specialist
After I hear about a certain case of cyberstalking, I strongly recommend contacting a cybersecurity specialist. You must contact your local authorities, but someone who makes a speciality of digital forensics can have the time and resources that your local police department doesn’t.