Category: Safety | Internet Security

From February-August 2022, hackers, primarily Russian, intensified attacks on providers’ and home networks in the Western hemisphere. They aimed to restore the transmission of misinformation to the audience worldwide. But that’s not only the single aim. Blackmail and personal data are widespread in the world.

Weak security on home WiFi networks is a common way that hackers target unsuspecting internet users.  So how do you fight against it? Let’s study this question of how to fix WiFi security to secure your devices and your family.

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a radio network delivering the signal to the receivers on short distances sending data. Modern phones, tablets, and computers have an inboard Wi-Fi connector to contact the router. If the device hasn’t it or needs boosting for confident reception, the user can deploy adaptors. Or choose one of two bands – 2,4, or 5 GHz.

Network advantages

• Quicker data exchange. The devices at home synchronize at speeds of 300 Mbps or faster. Besides, they don’t need wires to connect.

• Freedom of exploiting the Internet in the signal range. Move the PC throughout the apartment without being afraid to lose connection.

Is Wi-Fi a secure way to transmit?

Theoretically, yes, but it’s possible to intercept the signal. Traditionally it sends encrypted signals containing the people’s queries and the website’s content. But these securing network measures aren’t enough because the hackers use different software to read the streams. The unauthorized clients can change the router settings in their favor or reduce the total speed. Or use it for fraud purposes.

How to increase the safety of the home network

The most vulnerable device is the router. It’s responsible for the file and data transmitted between the devices in the home and office. That’s the system heart that needs corresponding protection.

The first piece of advice to fix WiFi security is a regular software update. It contains the system settings and has a current threat roster. Any DDoS attack doesn’t disturb you. Then check the password used to connect to the Internet and change it every quarter to protect the home network. If the Wi-Fi belongs to the office or public place, this frequency is monthly or biweekly.

My favorite thing is to try to test entering the router’s home page and even try to join its control panel. I don’t intend to change the settings or break the Internet connection, but understand how their administrators protect the network. But what if the visitor collects these data and sends them to particular databases containing the list of equipment with unchanged default settings?

It increases vulnerability. Unauthorized users reduce the speed, reroute the traffic or even spy on what you are doing in bed with that girl from the shop while your wife is on night shift. To avoid this, change it if the provider allows that function. Some providers and manufacturers restrict it.

Dual-band Modems

The dual-band modems have the advantage of splitting the audience. For example, the home users connect on 2,4 GHz, and the guests or major consumers use the 5 GHz band. That measure allows us to estimate who causes harm to all other clients. I expect that you’ll use different passwords for these networks.

Some routers offer antivirus and antispam options. It’s a great addition to the newest WPA3 standard of protection. These ideas will improve the security of your territory. The essential feature is parenting control. It protects the children from undesired content.

Today cybercriminals try to use personal devices in their illegal practices. That is, the personal computers are under threat Wi-Fi says weak security too.

AirPlay and CarPlay Security Issues

Even Apple’s popular media streaming and vehicle integration protocols harbor potential security vulnerabilities that often go overlooked. These technologies rely on Wi-Fi connectivity to function, creating additional attack surfaces for malicious actors. Security researchers have identified weaknesses in authentication mechanisms that could allow unauthorized devices to connect, potentially enabling man-in-the-middle attacks or unauthorized content streaming.

When CarPlay operates over wireless connections, it expands the vehicle’s attack surface beyond physical access, potentially exposing sensitive vehicle data and entertainment systems. Users should ensure their devices have the latest security updates and use strong Wi-Fi network security when utilizing these services to mitigate these risks.

Wrap Up

Even children are at risk when playing games online.  The IoT is still interesting for hackers as these items bring information about customers’ lifestyles and preferences. As a result, it gets spam. They have inner vulnerabilities allowing them to perform the undesired actions.

In addition to classic actions, include to the checklist:

• Regular operating system security updates on the personal devices;
• The highest parenting control settings won’t be excessive even if the family has no children;
• The routers with protective add-ons are more expensive but secure too. Don’t refuse to protect the home or office environment.

Proxies sit at the center of two separate networks and control data transfers from both sides. First-generation proxies were originally developed to support caching of frequently visited websites. As time passed, developers got more creative and informed, creating more reliable and functional proxies.

First-generation proxies still exist, but they can’t meet the demands and requirements of modern technology trends. Future-proof proxies meet the high needs for functionality while delivering exceptional speed and reliability.

Understanding the Evolution of Proxies

The history of proxies is not exclusively defined. There is little known info on the invention of proxy servers. However, computer and networking tech-savvy gurus link proxies to the 1970s when Bolt, Beranek, and Newman built the first internet network.

The growth trend has remained constant, with developers creating more promising proxies. Today, you can find proxy servers that support extension, customization, and ease of deployment. There are even programmable proxies capable of fulfilling high-end networking goals and functions. Here are the stages of evolution proxy servers have gone through.

Old-Style Proxy Servers

The first proxy servers to ever penetrate the internet and networking industry were simple and less complicated. They just sat between external networks and local-area networks, offering a layer of functionality and safety. These first-generation proxies supported the sharing of single connections between different computer devices. They achieved such functions by sitting between the client app and the computer, where they accepted and forwarded commands.

Old-style proxy servers could bar, control and sanction specified communications within the client app and the external networks. The proxies’ most fundamental yet beneficial role was conserving bandwidth and boosting network efficiency. These old proxies needed individual configurations to connect to client programs, and this need was a hassle, to say the least. Although these proxies limited internet costs, the setup process was complex and demanding. That prompted the invention of superior proxy servers such as the Network Address Translation (NAT).

The later firewalls have become stronger and more functional, supporting communications regulation between external and internal network borders. They control traffic on different levels, including high-level application contents and low-level network protocols. Most firewall vendors have upgraded their systems into reliable, secure proxy products that meet modern demands.

Present-day Proxy Servers

Current proxies exceed supreme safety and performance standards. These proxies have evolved from mere systems with guard-dog security functions and internet sharing programs to sophisticated systems with superb content authentication and caching abilities. The present-day proxy server offers portable authentication. A good example is where people want to access censored subscription-based third-party services. The present-day residential proxies from a legitimate proxy provider can help them bypass this restriction.

Modern proxies have features that support content caching to save bandwidth and speed up connections. The past-era proxies lacked the content caching feature, so you had to struggle with bandwidth and slow page load problems. Fortunately, hybrid proxy versions have high-end proxy servers and firewall features. The hybrid proxies feature the firewall and NAT features of the old and high-performing and efficient SOCKS5 configurations.

Future-proof Proxies

Developers have moved a step ahead to develop future-proof and reliable proxies. Naturally, proxy servers as individual products have a limited lifespan. Yes, modern-day SOCKS and proxies sit in restricted network environments powered by old operating systems. However, developers are continually inventing SOCKS and proxies powered by modern operating systems. The network environments where the future-proof proxies sit are now more extensive and accommodative.

Therefore, future-proof proxies have longer breadths and include all the needed authentication, content filtering, and caching functions. These proxies have advanced architecture and engineering aimed at preventing extinction. The modern proxies combine the old-style software firewalls with modern-day SOCKS, offering a secure and stable border between external and internal networks.

Conclusion

Like every other tech product, proxy servers have evolved significantly over the last few years. Today, the choice proxies at your disposal reinforce performance and internet security while steadying and shortening website load times. The traditional firewalls and proxies have not exhausted their usefulness but can lead to data leaks. Realize that there are hundreds of time-proven and effective proxy servers that can mask and add a layer of security to your connections. Read online proxy server reviews and testimonials to know which ones fit the bill.

Our dependence on technology grows, and so does cybersecurity’s importance. Criminals can take advantage of unsuspecting victims in myriad ways.  By comprehending the risks, you can take steps to protect yourself and your family from becoming victims of cybercrime.

We’ve put together this guide to the top cybersecurity threats.

Be Careful When Posting Private Information

Nowadays is highly important to understand social boundaries. Your personal information, which includes your full name, address, date of birth, and phone number, should not be public on your social media account.

Avoid posting images of awkward personal moments to your home addresses or family vacation plans.

The most valuable part of AI is using NLP (natural language processing) to decode words generally used in pretexting. One common tactic for an attacker is to pose as a legitimate entity to trick a victim into revealing confidential information.

Post carefully; by being careful, you can help protect yourself from becoming the next victim of cybercrime.

In addition, you can also help to educate your friends and family members by reminding them about cybersecurity risks. We can work together to help make the internet safer for everyone. If you or your friend are under a cybersecurity attack, report it immediately to authorities.

Participate In Security Awareness Training

Cybersecurity awareness training can help to mitigate these risks by teaching you how to spot potential threats and take steps to protect your data. In addition, cybersecurity awareness training can also provide the latest information on cybersecurity trends.

Participating in internet security awareness training is essential in the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity.

The Risk Of Accidentally Downloading Malware

Cyber attacks are becoming more targeted and more sophisticated. Be aware of the risks you face when using the internet.

One common online threat is accidentally downloading malware. Malware is malicious software that can wreak havoc on your computer, stealing personal information or damaging files.

It can be complicated to spot, disguised as a legitimate website or email attachment. That’s why it’s important to learn about cybersecurity and how to stay safe online.

By doing so, you’ll help yourself avoid accidentally downloading malware and other risks associated with the internet.

Inappropriate Marketing Messages

Another risk commonly faced online is inappropriate marketing messages or online fraud. Unfortunately, there are many unscrupulous individuals out there who are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting users.

Some common signs that an online predator may target you include receiving unsolicited messages or requests for personal information, being inundated with advertising messages, or asking to click on links that lead to questionable websites.

If you notice these red flags, you must talk to a friend or someone with experience in these online scam cases.

Stay up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends. Be aware of the signs of this type of activity, so you prevent from becoming a victim.

Harmful Content and Disinformation

Be aware of the types of content you may be exposed to online. This can include hateful, harmful, or illegal content and disinformation. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to protect yourself from all of this content.

However, there are some things that you can do to help reduce exposure to it. One thing that you can do is to talk more about cybersecurity and learn the importance of being careful about what you search or share online.

Additionally, watch trusty tutorials, read guidelines on spotting fake news, and require that they only share information from reliable sources.

Mobile Device Vulnerabilities

Mobile devices are increasingly becoming one of the primary cybersecurity targets. As we become more and more reliant on our smartphones, vulnerabilities are becoming more and more difficult to ignore.

Cybersecurity experts predict that by 2022, mobile devices will be the most common target for cyberattacks.

There are a few reasons for this trend:

1. Mobile devices are notoriously difficult to secure. Even the most basic smartphones have many built-in features that hackers can exploit.
2. Mobile device users are generally less security-conscious than users of other types of devices. We tend to download apps without considering the implications and click on links without considering the consequences.
3. Mobile devices are often connected to unsecured networks, making them an easy target for attacks.

While there is no easy solution to the problem of mobile device vulnerabilities, awareness is critical. By understanding the risks, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our data.

Cyber Predators

As much as we want to protect ourselves from online’s dangers, unfortunately, there are times when we fail to achieve this goal. In today’s digital age, it’s essential to be just as vigilant about cybersecurity risks, especially regarding our kids.

The number of cyber predators is increasing. AI usage and machine learning will continue to grow in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity professionals are already using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to help identify and thwart attacks.

Cyber and other online predators often stalk children on the internet. They take advantage of their innocence, lack adult supervision, and abuse their trust.

These predators lurk in the same virtual venues where anonymity facilitates cyberbullying. Some of these virtual venues are social media and gaming platforms that exploit children’s innocence and their gift of imagination.

Check out the FBI’s guidance in protecting against predators and other online risks to child safety.

Investing In Cyber Hygiene

Cyber hygiene is more important than ever. That’s because cybersecurity is a top concern for businesses of all sizes. Spending on cybersecurity products and services and training and awareness programs.

What do you have to do to enhance your cybersecurity?

First, make sure you have a firm cyber security policy in place. Second, training on how to spot potential threats and how to respond to them.

Finally, stay up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends and ensure you use the best security practices. Doing these things can help reduce the risk of a cyber attack and keep your business safe.

Conclusion

The internet can pose severe dangers and open doors of wonder for them that previous generations could not have dreamed of. Help ensure your online safety by experiencing the online world’s joys and opportunities and avoiding hazards.

Each participating member holds power to positively or negatively affect their cyber ecosystem. Everyone must acknowledge their cyber role based on their position in the ecosystem to reduce the likelihood and risk of cyberattack.

Always be aware and vigilant.

We understand that internet safety for kids is a top priority for parents and teachers who are providing online access to younger children and teens alike. Safe search resources for the internet should not replace proper parental or teacher supervision, but it can go a long way to protect those most vulnerable.

You might be surprised that in some ways the internet is safer now than 15 years ago.  Of course, in many other ways it’s much more dangerous.  Due to internet providers making better attempts to separate adult content from general content, and search engines providing more filtered search, it is a little more difficult to stumble upon illicit material when you are not actively seeking it out.

But make no mistake, harmful content still readily available when a child grows older and decides they want to explore beyond set boundaries.  Social media has also presented new problems with increased opportunity for online predators, cyberbullying, and content hidden from parents within social media accounts.

Connection between internet users is now instant and often undetected.  This is where parental controls are essential for monitoring.  The younger the age of a child online, the more pervasive these monitoring controls need to protect kids.  Once they see anything it can’t be unseen. 

So with that being said, here are few tips to encourage online safety for kids when surfing the world wide web whether at home or in school.

Internet Safety Tips for Kids

• Have an open conversation with your kids about safe browsing and computer use. Explain why online safety is important.  Teach them that with the freedom to explore the internet comes responsibility.

• Do not replace parental or teacher supervision of computer use at home or at school with our safe search engine or any other. No search filtering tool is perfect, especially outside of a software application.  We’ll explore that option momentarily.

• A good rule of thumb is to not allow internet use when a child is home alone without proper supervision, even with our safe search kids search engine.
• Keep your computer in an open area. If your computer is in a home office, make a rule that doors are always left open when online.

• Educate yourself on how to stay safe when using social media and have open discussions with teens about present dangers and long term effects of inappropriate conduct, including the dangers associated with posting pictures online.

• It’s not a good idea to allow computers or laptops in your kids bedrooms, even while using our free internet filter, unless they are close to the main area of the house such as the kitchen or living room with doors left open.

• Do not allow internet use after you’ve gone to bed at night no matter how good your computer security software is or how confident you are in kids search engines.

• As alluded to above, software can provide better web filtering to strengthen internet safety for kids.  Consider installing parental controls to give you complete control over how your children access the internet.

What to Teach Kids About Internet Safety

With the rise in identity theft it’s important recognize that it’s not only adults that can be a target. Here are some tips that kids should know to protect themselves today, and as they grow older.

Do not give out personal information about yourself online without your parent’s permission. This includes your name, where you live or your telephone number.

Never to agree to meet someone that you have met online. If you do not know the person in ‘real life’, tell your parents about anyone that is asking to meet you.

Talk to your parents first about pictures you want to post online, whether they be of yourself or your friends and family members.

Do not respond to messages you receive that are mean or speaking meanly about others. Tell your parents about these messages.  Learn what you can do if you are a victim of online bullying.

Do not give out any of your passwords to friends or anyone you meet online.

Check with your parents first before downloading or installing any software on your computer. Do not allow file sharing programs to be installed on your computer. Only use safe and secure music download programs from trusted sources on the internet.

Always be kind of others online. Do not do anything that may hurt others including joining in conversations discussing other people’s problems.

Be careful about discussing details about your own personal problems with your friends online. It is better to speak to them in person. Tell your parents or teacher if you are struggling with something.

Learn common sense social media safety tips you can put into practice today.

Ensure privacy settings on activated on all of social media websites you use.

Remember that the rules for internet safety for kids also apply to texting on your phone.

Agree to computer rules set up by your parents, teachers or guardians. With freedom and trust comes the expectation that you will act responsibly.

Parental Controls for Internet Safety

Parents have always tried to protect their children from exposure to inappropriate content. Content filters are the oldest form of parental controls. These tools allow parents to block websites, videos, music, games, apps, and other media. Some content filters even allow parents to monitor what their child watches on TV.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of companies offering similar services. Many of them offer free trials, which allows parents to try out the service before purchasing it. There are many different types of content filters available today. Some are designed to block all content while others are designed to filter certain types of content. For example, a parent might choose to block all adult content while allowing educational sites to pass through.

Set up parental controls on phones

While there are many apps designed to keep kids safe while they’re using the web, parents should also consider installing parental controls for other devices in the home. These tools allow parents to set restrictions on how long their child can use the device, which websites they can visit, and whether they can access specific features.

If you’ve got an Android device, you can easily set up parental controls by downloading the Google Play Protect app. This free app scans your device for malware and other threats, then gives you recommendations on how to protect your data. You can also download the Family Link app, which allows you to share your account with family members so they can manage their own accounts as well.

Block apps from accessing the internet

With these two tools, you can block apps from accessing the internet, preventing them from accessing any websites. You’ll need to do this manually each time you use the app, though. And example of blocking apps is a social media platform you don’t want your kids to access.  Some social media sites are innocent enough and you’ll want to monitor them.  Others may have content you will need to keep a closer eye on.

Prevent your child from sharing personal information

You can also use parental controls to block apps that contain potentially dangerous features. For example, some games allow players to share personal information with other users. This includes things like your name, address, phone number, and email address.

Restrict access to websites

If you’re worried about your child’s exposure to inappropriate content, you can restrict access to certain websites by using parental controls. These controls allow parents to set up filters that prevent their children from viewing certain sites.  YouTube parental controls are good example of a site that may have educational content, but parents wants to ensure there are restrictions on less appropriate videos.

Monitor your child’s activity.

If you’re worried about your child’s activities online, you can monitor their device using a parental control app. These apps will let you view everything your child does on their phone, tablet, or computer. You’ll be able to see who they’re talking to, where they’ve been, and what they’re doing.

Internet Filtering Solutions

Internet Accountability: The Covenant Eyes Filter provides the following options:  Decide the times of day the Internet may be used, and how much time per day or per week the Internet may be surfed under each username. Choose whether to block or to allow specific websites specific to each username.  This software can be used to help block instant messaging, file sharing, and other protocols. The basic Covenant Eyes Accountability feature teaches safe browsing habits. Just knowing that an extra set of eyes in watching, encourages your family members to be responsible when surfing the internet.

For complete control, especially for younger children or for those times you are not available to monitor computer activity, ensure internet safety for kids using installations that block access to inappropriate content online.  These solutions will come in the form of an app for mobile devices or software for computers and lap tops.

Internet safety for kids should be the first priority of any parent or guardian when seeking protection of children online. It certainly can be a balance to juggle freedom on the internet with a safe level of online restrictions. Implement safe search using a kids search engine along with a filtering software program. Safe Search for Kids is designed to work hand in hand with supervision by parents and educators.