The online world is vast. And unfortunately, the internet has been accessible a lot more now than ever. We live in the world where tablets and mobile phones, are considered to be the number 1 choice to give as presents by parents to their kids. And in return, children would rather spend time with their gadgets, rather than a simple walk in the park.

Parents or guardians think that by staying indoors, children could be safer. Although it makes sense, it is not completely right. These days, the online world has been infested by irresponsible users. Users who are lurking around and just waiting for the right prey to click that single link they placed everywhere in the virtual world.

So now you think, “how do I keep my family safe, online?”.

Listed below are useful tips which you could consider in order to make sure your family is safe while browsing the internet.

Secure Browsing and your WiFi Password

Comparative analysis was made as to which browser is safer to use than the other. Unfortunately, no single browser is completely bulletproof. The next best thing to do is make sure what you’re currently using is secured instead. If you go to the privacy settings of your website you’ll find the tabs that could configure your browser’s security. It is helpful too to always make sure your browser’s updated. Make your WiFi passwords difficult to breach by adding a different character other than letters and numbers. If it’s possible to change it regularly, then do so.

The use of VPN (Virtual Private Network) is another option. Its major use is to ensure security for the user as data and information are transmitted from one channel to another through secured tunnels. It also helps when you’re traveling and the need to connect to public WiFi arises. You may be safe browsing through your home WiFi connection, but once you connect to a public one you’re susceptible to hackers. Since there are countries who block certain websites, VPN can help you with that. Use VPN to access blocked websites in China, for example. Especially if you wish to update your Facebook account while you’re in the country.

Parental Controls to Monitor their Internet Activity

Although children can be more internet savvy than adults, they could be more impulsive too. They sometimes don’t apply caution as they browse the internet which makes them one step closer to being hacked.

It is important for parents and guardians to always monitor the kids’ internet activities. If the kids used to watch YouTube videos make sure they only get to access videos that are acceptable for their age. Give them a certain timeframe as to when they can only use the internet and be serious and strict with it. Invest in software that could help you with blocking or filtering out websites that have inappropriate contents.

While doing those preventive measures, make sure that you explain it to the kids too. Make them understand that what you’re doing is not to be awkward but to make sure they're secured.

Use Alphanumeric Passwords

Passwords are made for a purpose. But they can only do their job if they were set up right. One of the most common and easiest way a hacker can break into someone else’s data is by guessing the password. And a weak password can give them the advantage.

The use of alphanumeric symbols in your passwords can do the trick most of the time. Don’t just use simple names of your family members or birthdates. Chances are it will be the first option they’ll start with. Don’t make it too short, or too long. Mix up letters with numbers and add up some special characters too. Inform the rest of the family to do the same too.

Keep yourself informed about internet security threats.

If there is one thing that could come handy while browsing the internet; that is to be a cautious user. It is important to keep yourself on top of the security threats from the internet.

Gladly you don’t have to be the most computer savvy to tell the difference. Ransomware, for example, is a kind of software that threatens to make the user’s information public, unless a certain amount of “ransom” is paid. The way it attacks is usually by a Trojan virus that disguises as a legitimate file. It makes it very tricky which leaves the user no option but to download it. It was in 2012 when Ransomware scams have grown further and even internationally. Investing in a good anti-virus software could definitely help to detect such threat.

Keep your Family Safe

It is apparent how the internet is much loved by people of all ages these days. We have eventually come to be dependent on it as well. However, it doesn’t mean our security has to suffer. To be responsible and a cautious internet user is a key. Hope the list above helps, and for sure there are more tips available too. Check some more options. After all, our family’s safety both in the real world and the virtual world is always the top priority.