Google on October 8 announced that it will shut down its Google+ social network and tighten its data sharing policies after its disclosure of a flaw discovered that private profile data of up to 500,000 users could have been exposed to external developers. Google in a blog post said that the issue was discovered and patched in March and no developer exploited the vulnerability or misused data. Following the issue, Norton by Symantec has shared five tips as to how one can control cyber safety and privacy.
- Keep your passwords fresh: Don’t use the same password on multiple sites or tie your password to publicly available information as it makes it easier for the bad guys to guess. Change it regularly and be sure to use a phrase that consists of a string of words that are easy to memorize but hard for anyone else to crack. The longer your password, the better it is.
- Always sign out of your online accounts: It’s convenient to stay signed in to your accounts, but it comes at a cost – especially if someone gains access from leaked credentials. Regularly sign out of your online accounts to help keep your information safe.
- Own your online presence: Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection and help keep your information private. Make sure you carefully read the terms and conditions before opening an account or downloading an application and always set the privacy and security settings on web services and devices to your comfort level.
- Ensure you security software subscription is up to date: Using security software such as Norton Security Premium is a way to protect yourself and your privacy online. Use data breaches such as this one as a reminder to ensure your online security software and processes are up to date.
- Know your rights and act quickly: Data protection frameworks such as the proposed Data Protection Bill 2018 and Notifiable Data Breaches scheme under it, are in place to ensure you are notified of data breaches that may harm to you and other Indian Consumers. Understanding your rights under these frameworks and acting quickly after you’ve been notified of a data breach will reduce the chance of harm.
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