101 Ways to Stay Safe & Secure Online

101 Ways to Stay Safe & Secure Online


Feb 11, 2025
by jessicadunbar

Happy Safer Internet Day! Today is the perfect reminder that while the internet connects us in amazing ways, it also comes with risks—cyber threats, scams, and data breaches are more common than ever. But staying safe online isn’t just for tech experts; it’s something everyone should prioritize. Whether you’re browsing, shopping, banking, or just scrolling through social media, a few smart habits can go a long way in protecting your personal information. In honor of Safer Internet Day, we’re sharing 101 practical ways to boost your online security, from creating stronger passwords to avoiding phishing scams. Let’s make the internet a safer place—starting with you!

General Online Safety

  1. Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
  2. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible.
  3. Use a password manager to store and generate strong passwords.
  4. Avoid using easily guessable passwords like "password123" or "admin."
  5. Change your passwords regularly, especially after a security breach.
  6. Never reuse passwords across multiple sites.
  7. Keep your operating system and software updated.
  8. Use official websites to download software and updates.
  9. Install a reputable antivirus and anti-malware program.
  10. Run regular security scans on your devices.

Secure Browsing & Email

  1. Use a secure web browser like Brave, Firefox, or Chrome with security extensions.
  2. Check for HTTPS before entering personal information on a website.
  3. Avoid clicking suspicious links in emails, messages, or social media.
  4. Never download attachments from unknown senders.
  5. Be cautious of phishing scams—fake emails trying to steal your info.
  6. Don't trust urgent messages claiming your account is compromised.
  7. Verify email sender addresses before taking any action.
  8. Enable spam filters on your email account.
  9. Use a throwaway email for sign-ups instead of your main one.
  10. Set up email forwarding alerts for unusual activity.

Social Media Safety

  1. Make your social media accounts private.
  2. Avoid sharing personal information like phone numbers or addresses.
  3. Don't overshare vacation plans—it signals when you're not home.
  4. Beware of fake friend requests and unknown followers.
  5. Turn off location services when posting online.
  6. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on social media accounts.
  7. Be mindful of public Wi-Fi when logging into social media.
  8. Regularly review third-party apps connected to your social accounts.
  9. Use a strong, unique password for every social media account.
  10. Don't engage with suspicious or troll accounts.

Device Security

  1. Lock your phone with a strong PIN, password.
  2. Avoid using auto-login on shared or public computers.
  3. Enable remote wipe for lost or stolen devices.
  4. Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use.
  5. Don't install apps from unverified sources.
  6. Regularly check app permissions on your phone.
  7. Keep your firewall enabled on your computer.
  8. Encrypt your sensitive files and backups.
  9. Use a secure file-sharing service instead of email attachments.
  10. Avoid plugging in unknown USB drives.

Online Shopping & Banking

  1. Only shop on trusted websites with HTTPS encryption.
  2. Use virtual credit cards for online purchases.
  3. Avoid storing credit card info on shopping sites.
  4. Turn on purchase alerts for suspicious transactions.
  5. Use a separate bank account for online transactions.
  6. Regularly review bank statements for fraudulent charges.
  7. Enable two-factor authentication on banking accounts.
  8. Avoid public Wi-Fi when making purchases or banking online.
  9. Never share financial details over email or text.
  10. Report suspicious transactions immediately to your bank.

Public Wi-Fi & VPNs

  1. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.
  2. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for extra security.
  3. Disable auto-connect to open Wi-Fi networks.
  4. Never enter passwords or credit card details on public Wi-Fi.
  5. Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in public places.
  6. Use personal hotspot instead of public networks.
  7. If you must use public Wi-Fi, log out of accounts afterward.
  8. Keep device software up-to-date to protect against Wi-Fi attacks.
  9. Be cautious of fake Wi-Fi hotspots mimicking real ones.
  10. Use encrypted messaging apps instead of public chats.

Online Privacy & Data Protection

  1. Regularly clear your browser history, cookies, and cache.
  2. Use incognito mode for private browsing.
  3. Opt out of data tracking and targeted ads.
  4. Avoid taking online quizzes that collect personal data.
  5. Be cautious about what you share on job sites.
  6. Use burner email addresses for sign-ups.
  7. Check what personal data companies collect about you and Protect Your Privacy When Working Remotely.
  8. Use encrypted email services for extra privacy.
  9. Turn off voice assistants if you're concerned about privacy.
  10. Consider using decentralized search engines like DuckDuckGo.

Work & Business Security

  1. Use a business VPN when working remotely.
  2. Store work files on encrypted cloud storage.
  3. Avoid using personal devices for work-related tasks.
  4. Regularly update company security policies.
  5. Train employees on cybersecurity best practices.
  6. Use secure communication tools like Slack or Signal.
  7. Don't share company data over unsecured email.
  8. Back up important business data regularly.
  9. Use role-based access controls for sensitive data.
  10. Log out of work accounts after use.

Family & Kids' Online Safety

  1. Set up parental controls on kids' devices.
  2. Teach kids about online stranger danger.
  3. Encourage kids to use safe search settings.
  4. Monitor social media activity without invading privacy.
  5. Use child-friendly browsers and apps.
  6. Limit screen time for safety and well-being.
  7. Teach kids about phishing and scams.
  8. Keep smart home devices secured with passwords.
  9. Regularly check apps your kids are using.
  10. Teach kids how to report online threats.

Advanced Security Tips

  1. Read version 9 Security Overview for extra protection.
  2. Set up automatic backups for critical data.
  3. Regularly check Concrete Permissions.
  4. Use encrypted cloud storage for sensitive files.
  5. Read Concrete CMS Hardening best practices.
  6. Set site to render only on TLS/HTTPS and read 7 Reasons Why SSL Is Important For Your Website.
  7. Disable unused accounts to reduce risk.
  8. Keep your Concrete CMS up to Date.
  9. Consider integrating Concrete CMS login into your company’s SSO. 
  10. Host with the Concrete CMS Team!
  11. Enhance Your Website Security with Concrete CMS Add-Ons

Final Thought:

Cybersecurity is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing habit. By following these 101 tips, you’ll reduce your risks and keep your data safe. Stay vigilant, stay secure! 🔐💻