Browsing the net incognito or sticking a gold star over your webcam may not be enough to shield you from the efforts of hackers.
In an attempt to safeguard yourself from these efforts – web users are advised to enhance their privacy through staying on top of software updates.
Gerhard Eschelbeck – Head of Google’s Cyber Security
Looking at Eschelbeck’s statements to Fairfax Media, individuals are given insight into the biggest compromises of cyber security. In accordance with his statements, it is acknowledged that cyber threats are often more present in an un-patched device that has a security vulnerability.
Eschelbeck advises that web users should “patch often, patch quickly. It’s a very good strategy to defend from cyber attacks”.
Although the opportunity to enhance one’s privacy is there, many claim that privacy attempts are futile. One way or another, there will always be someone or some group tracking our habits and analysing our clicks. Whether that be for the purpose of building a brand of power and influence, or attempts at cracking our financial details.
Nevertheless, Eschelbeck disagrees with these claims, looking to the different avenues Google offers its users, giving them the ability to change and update their privacy and security settings.
So, how does Eschelbeck actually protect himself?
Up-to-date on security patches
A very common mistake is ignoring updates and missing patches. Being up-to-date is a make or break in the digital age. He states, “it’s easy to miss an update, a patch and it requires a bit of rigour. It’s where I see people, and myself, making mistakes”.
Password game strong
It isn’t necessary to go out and create a wacky, complicated password that you won’t remember. Eschelbeck has a trick where he uses the Password Safe app, which creates a secured and encrypted username and password list. It allows him to create really unique and randomised passwords for all of his accounts and store them in an encrypted fashion.
Security Key
Another essential for Eschelbeck is his own invention, the security key. It doesn’t involve looking at codes and typing. Simply, it needs to be inserted into the USB port when the user is prompted. Although it is not a must have, it certainly does enhance your privacy security. He encourages web users to use it.
Tell us if Eschelbeck’s three step safeguard works for you by tagging us @Lawpath.
