25 Online Safety Tips For Using The Internet

Learn About Data Collection Early

I got into the cybersecurity and privacy industry because I learned about data collection the hard way. Companies had already harvested my data and placed it on an open market by the time I understood this aspect of modern technology. Contacting companies and data brokers to have data removed is a very long and difficult process. Since then, I’ve focused solely on maintaining my privacy so I never have to regain it again.

Use Password Managers and MFA

My strong recommendation to fellow entrepreneurs is to utilize a password manager to create and securely store complex passwords, and to activate MFA whenever possible. Implementing these strategies dramatically minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to both your business and personal accounts. Safeguarding your digital footprint is essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining the trust of your customers and clients. Take proactive steps now. Don’t wait for a security breach to prompt action.

As an entrepreneur, one crucial online safety lesson I learned early in my journey is the vital importance of strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Initially, I underestimated the vulnerability of online accounts, often relying on simple or repetitive passwords across various platforms. This oversight nearly cost me when I faced a few close calls with compromised accounts. Through these experiences, I came to realize that reusing passwords or choosing weak ones significantly heightens the risk of hacking and data breaches.

Back Up Data Regularly

Backups are more crucial than I initially realized. Losing data without a backup can be devastating and irreversible. Early on, I didn’t back up data as often as I should have. Regular backups now give me peace of mind.

I encourage everyone to implement regular data backup routines. Use cloud services and physical drives for redundancy. It’s important to explain the simplicity of setting up automatic backups. This practice can save significant stress and prevent potential loss.

Be Cautious of Oversharing

When I first started using the internet, I wish I had understood the subtle danger of oversharing, not just in terms of personal details but also my emotional state and aspirations. I’ve learned that not every platform or person online deserves full access to your vulnerability. My advice to others is to approach online interactions with the same boundaries you would set in real life – share thoughtfully, protect your inner world, and remember that privacy is power. And if you do find yourself in a situation where you’ve shared too much, it’s okay to take a step back and reassess your boundaries going forward.

I’ve seen how the internet can amplify our insecurities and trigger feelings of comparison or inadequacy. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and be mindful of the impact that spending too much time online can have on your mental health.

Use Authenticator Apps for 2FA

Two-factor authentication saved my online store from a hacking attempt last year – I wish I’d known about it sooner. I now require all my team members to use it for our company accounts, and it’s caught several suspicious login attempts from unfamiliar locations. From my experience running eCommerce platforms, I strongly recommend using an authenticator app rather than SMS verification, since phone numbers can be compromised.

Create Strong, Unique Passwords

One crucial online safety tip I wish I had known when I first ventured into the digital world is the importance of using strong, unique passwords for every account. Early on, I used the same password across multiple platforms, thinking it was convenient. However, this put my accounts at risk, as a breach in one platform could compromise all my online identities.

I’ve learned from experience that a password manager can help create and maintain unique, complex passwords without the hassle of remembering them all. This approach secures your accounts by minimizing the chance of credentials being leaked across different services.

Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that even if someone obtains your password, they won’t easily access your account.

Never underestimate the value of regular updates to both your software and security practices. As threats evolve, staying informed and adapting is key to safeguarding your online presence.

Be Selective on Social Media

I wish someone had told me to be more selective about what I share on social media. As an indiepreneur, it’s tempting to talk about every new project or milestone. However, sharing too many details can reveal clues for potential attackers—such as when you’re out of town, your office is empty, or your schedule shows exactly where you’ll be. Cybercriminals can piece together these tidbits to exploit you or your business. It’s not about hiding everything but about being smart with what you post.

I recommend keeping some details private or sharing them after the fact. If you’re traveling for work, it’s often safer to post about it once you’ve returned. Also, set the appropriate privacy levels on each platform so only people you trust can see your personal updates. This doesn’t mean you can’t engage with your audience; just be mindful of the information you’re putting out there. Being cautious about public posts can make your personal and professional life more secure.

Use a VPN on Public WiFi

Public WiFi has been one of the biggest security risks I’ve encountered while working remotely at coffee shops and airports. I discovered that using a VPN is essential – it encrypted my connection during a crucial video call with investors last month when I had to use airport WiFi, protecting our sensitive company data.

Prepare for Data Breaches

One thing I wish I had known sooner about online safety is how quickly a small security mistake can turn into a big problem. For ease of use, I used the same password on all of my sites while scaling Edumentors. That didn’t work out because my passwords were made public during a data breach, which allowed unauthorized users to attempt to log in and cause problems. It was a pain to overcome, but it taught me how important password managers and two-factor authentication are. Now, I ensure that each account has its own strong password, and I check for data breaches frequently. I would advise others to simply assume that their information will be stolen at some point and prepare for that eventuality. Enabling 2FA, changing passwords regularly, and being cautious with links are all small habits that can make a big difference in avoiding online threats.

Lock Down Accounts Before Issues Arise

Back when we first started using online tools for work, we didn’t think much about password security. Most of us reused the same passwords across different platforms, after all, and remembering a bunch of unique ones felt impossible. But then a data breach hit a service one of our team members used, and that exposed more than just one account. It was a wake-up call.

Since then, we’ve changed how we handle security. Now, everyone in our company uses a password manager, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a must for all critical accounts. It’s a simple habit, but it makes a huge difference.

If there’s one thing I’d tell anyone starting out, it’s this: Don’t wait until something goes wrong to take security seriously. Hackers don’t need you to be famous or important, just careless. Lock down your accounts before you have to learn the hard way.

Use Strict Privacy Settings

Working with adolescents, I’ve seen firsthand how sharing personal information online can lead to anxiety and cyberbullying incidents. One of my teenage clients had their private messages screenshotted and shared around school, which taught me the importance of explaining that anything posted online can become permanent. I now advise everyone, especially young people, to use strict privacy settings and think twice before sharing personal details, even in seemingly private chats.

Protect Your Phone Number

I never realized how much my phone number could be used to access sensitive accounts until I learned about SIM-swapping attacks. Since so many services rely on it for verification, having it leaked puts personal information at risk. Now, I use a secondary number or VoIP service for public sign-ups and keep my personal number as private as possible.

Avoiding unnecessary exposure makes it much harder for scammers to exploit my identity. Treating a phone number like a password—something to protect, not share freely—has made a huge difference in my online security.

Practice Data Minimization

Something I wish I had realized sooner is how random tidbits–like that selfie you snapped for fun or casual comments you make online–can be pieced together by malicious actors to create alarmingly accurate digital “clones.”

It may sound futuristic, but it is already happening. AI tools can collect your photos, voice clips, and even older social media posts, then stitch them into a version of you that can deceive people (and even some security systems). The surprising part is how easily we hand over these puzzle pieces: using an old profile picture on multiple sites, granting microphone access for some trivial quiz, or posting a short voice note in a public forum. It doesn’t even require major hacking–just someone persistent enough to scrape what you’ve made publicly available.

The key is to start practicing what I call “data minimization.” Don’t rely solely on strong passwords–take stock of what information you’ve scattered around and reduce it. If you have outdated or highly personal content lingering on your social media feeds, archive or delete it. Revoke permissions for random applications you no longer use. And try to “scatter” your digital trail–vary your profile photos, avoid repeating the same biographical details across platforms, and be mindful of what you’re sharing in audio or video form. It’s all about ensuring you’re not providing cyber-snoopers with a perfectly curated data set for deepfakes or identity theft.

Adopt a Multi-Layered Security Approach

A crucial online safety tip I wish I knew early on is the importance of leveraging a multi-layered security approach. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, relying on a single line of defense is no longer sufficient. From my experiences at NetSharx Technology Partners, it’s clear that integrating solutions like SD-WAN and SASE can help protect against diverse attack vectors by optimizing network security and access control.

In one particular case, we helped a client implement endpoint protection across their devices, which included anti-virus, anti-spyware, and personal firewalls. This approach significantly reduced their exposure to malware and improved their incident response time by 40%. Individuals can adopt a similar strategy by using comprehensive security solutions for their personal devices.

Another piece of advice is to understand the value of third-party security assessments. Many companies we work with initially overlook this, only realizing its importance after a breach occurs. Regular security assessments by unbiased partners can reveal vulnerabilities you might not be aware of, ultimately strengthening your overall security posture.

Avoid Reusing Passwords

One online safety tip I wish I had known when I first started using the internet is to avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts. Back then, it seemed convenient to use the same password everywhere, but I learned the hard way how risky that can be.

A few years ago, one of my old email accounts was hacked, and because I had reused the same password for other services, it created a domino effect. It was a stressful experience that could have been avoided with stronger, unique passwords.

Ayush says, “Think of your passwords as the keys to your digital life. If you use the same key for every door, one breach can unlock everything.” Today, I rely on a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords for each account. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in staying secure online.

For anyone looking to improve their online safety, I’d also recommend enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone. This simple step has become a standard practice for me and has stopped multiple unauthorized login attempts on my accounts.

Another piece of advice is to be cautious about what you share online. Early in my career, I didn’t think twice about posting personal details on social media. Over time, I realized how easily this information could be exploited. Now, I’m much more selective about what I share and always check privacy settings on platforms.

A strong foundation in online safety doesn’t just protect your personal information—it also fosters confidence in using digital tools effectively. The internet is an amazing resource, but it’s important to approach it with awareness and caution. Simple habits like using strong passwords, enabling 2FA, and being mindful of what you share can go a long way in protecting yourself online.

Verify Links Before Clicking

With my experience in digital marketing, I learned the hard way about clicking suspicious links when I almost compromised our company’s data by opening what looked like a legitimate client email. Now, I always double-check sender addresses and hover over links to verify URLs before clicking, which has saved me from countless phishing attempts and potential security breaches.

Use Unique Passwords and MFA

When I first started using the internet, I wish I had truly understood the importance of unique, strong passwords for every account. Like many people, I used to reuse the same password across multiple platforms, thinking it was easier to remember. But as I got deeper into the digital space, I quickly realized how risky that was. One data breach could compromise everything—emails, bank accounts, business tools, and more.

Now, my biggest piece of advice is to use a password manager. These tools generate and store strong, unique passwords for every account, so you don’t have to rely on memory (or worse, sticky notes). I also recommend enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. It adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for hackers to access your accounts, even if your password is leaked.

Beyond passwords, be mindful of phishing attempts. If an email, message, or website feels even slightly off—whether it’s an urgent request, a misspelled domain, or an unexpected attachment—verify before clicking. Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and even tech-savvy people can fall for a well-crafted fake.

The bottom line? Take online security seriously from day one. A few extra steps now can save you from major headaches down the road.

Be Skeptical of Online Interactions

Among my most valuable lessons about online safety is to accept nothing at face value because with emails and links, one can never be sure. At the beginning of my internet use, I was totally ignorant about phishing scam types. A seemingly official email dropped into my inbox, which asked for “urgent verification” of my account details. I entered my information directly into the link after clicking it without any deliberation, leading to the breach of my account security.

My first encounter with that lesson made me understand that checking is essential before clicking. Users fall victim to cybercriminals because these con artists utilize verified company logos to trick innocent people. Since my cyber attack experience, I have adopted a safety routine by inspecting communication indicators such as misspellings, combined with suspicious administrator addresses and implausible promotional messages. I use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on vital accounts because it adds security protection when attackers acquire my authentication details.

My advice? Be skeptical, stay updated, and double-check everything. The internet is an incredible space, but only if we navigate it wisely. A moment of caution today can save you from a cybersecurity nightmare tomorrow. Stay alert, stay safe!

Use a Password Manager

As a tech CEO, I learned the hard way about password security when one of our game accounts was hacked because I used the same password everywhere. I now use LastPass to generate unique passwords for every account and recommend it to my team. It has saved us from countless headaches and potential security breaches.

Verify Online Interactions in Therapy

When I first started using the internet, I underestimated the importance of scrutinizing the authenticity of online interactions, particularly in therapeutic settings. As a therapist deeply engaged with trauma and attachment work, I’ve seen how genuinely unsafe interactions—even online—can retraumatize clients. The internet can often blur boundaries, so verifying the credentials of those you seek help or advice from is vital. This same principle applies to ensuring privacy continues in digital spaces; never share personal information with sources you haven’t thoroughly vetted.

In my practice, handling sensitive cases involving trauma, we extensively use advanced therapeutic modalities like EMDR and somatic therapy. I’ve learned the risks of online services that offer quick fixes without proper depth and expertise, particularly in mental health support. It’s essential to distinguish between credible therapeutic tools and those that are not, as they can have profound impacts on your healing journey.

Understanding how your online behaviors can affect your emotional well-being over time is crucial. For example, joining supportive online therapy or groups can facilitate community healing and growth, but it’s vital to ensure these platforms maintain the same level of confidentiality and care as in-person sessions. Just as I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment in therapy, carrying that vigilance into online interactions protects both myself and my clients from potential harm.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

In the early days of my internet use, I underestimated the importance of strong, unique passwords. It wasn’t until I experienced a security breach that I realized the necessity.

A few years ago, I had one password for multiple accounts—and it got hacked. The fallout was stressful, as I had to reset each account and deal with potential data loss.

Since then, I’ve made it a point to use password managers to generate and store complex passwords for every site I use. This simple tool has been a game-changer for securing my digital life.

I advise new internet users to prioritize their security by creating strong, individual passwords from the start. Trust me, it’s a lesson worth learning before it becomes a necessity. A password manager can make this process seamless and easily integrated into your daily routine.

Avoid Browser-Based Password Storage

It’s not as safe as it seems to save passwords in a browser, and I wish I had known this sooner.

If a device gets hacked or stolen, those stored passwords can be an open invitation for trouble. That’s why I switched to using a dedicated password manager—it keeps my credentials encrypted and secure, without leaving them vulnerable to browser-based attacks.

A strong, unique password for every account is essential, and a password manager makes it easy to maintain them without the risk of reuse. I also enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible, adding an extra layer of security beyond just a password.

It’s a small change that significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Online security starts with habits, and smarter password management is one of the best habits to adopt.

Manage Emotional Content Shared Online

One online safety tip I wish I had known earlier is the significance of managing emotional content shared online. My experience as a psychologist highlights how sharing deeply personal stories without considering potential consequences can leave us feeling exposed or misunderstood. During my work in trauma retreats, I’ve seen clients who struggled with privacy concerns after divulging sensitive information on forums or social media without considering how it might affect their emotional well-being or relationships. Protecting your personal narrative online is crucial.

Based on my experiences, I advise prioritizing online privacy by carefully choosing who you share your sensitive thoughts and emotions with. Just as I ensure a stringent privacy policy in my therapy sessions to protect my clients, individuals must recognize the potential implications of sharing private content publicly. This mindfulness about online privacy can prevent unnecessary stress and emotional harm.

Lastly, avoid doomscrolling; immersing yourself in negative news can exacerbate anxiety and stress. In my practice, I’ve guided individuals to replace this harmful habit with positive coping strategies, such as engaging in activities that promote mental well-being. Feel free to actively curate your online experience, opting for content that enriches rather than drains your emotional reserves.

Establish a Verbal Code Word

Voice cloning scams are becoming dangerously convincing, and I wish I had known how easily AI can replicate someone’s voice. A short clip from a social media video or voicemail is all it takes for scammers to create a fake call that sounds exactly like a loved one.

I’ve now established a verbal “code word” with my family to confirm every urgent request, particularly when it involves cash or private data. I’m also more mindful about sharing voice recordings publicly, limiting who can access them online.

A little precaution can make all the difference in spotting a scam before it becomes a crisis. Always confirm unexpected requests through a second method, like a direct call or video chat, and use a code word to ensure you’re speaking to the real person.

Confirm Friend Requests

I wish I had known that not all “friend” requests are friendly, no matter how familiar they seem. Scammers are incredibly skilled at creating fake profiles that mimic real people, making it easy to fall for their tricks. Even if it seems to be from someone I know, I now always take time to confirm any surprise friend request.

A quick message through another platform or a direct call can confirm whether it’s genuine or a clever impersonation. Online safety starts with skepticism—treat every connection request like a locked door, and don’t open it without checking who’s on the other side. Trust is earned, not assumed, especially in the digital world.