which of the following is a best practice when browsing the internet
Which of the following is a best practice when browsing the internet?
Answer:
When browsing the internet, following best practices ensures your safety, privacy, and an overall better experience. Here are the key best practices:
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Use Strong, Unique Passwords
- Always create strong passwords that are a combination of letters (both uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words.
- Consider using a password manager to keep track of different passwords for different sites.
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Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Implementing 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just a password and username but also something that only the user has on them (like a piece of information only they should know or have immediately at hand, such as a physical token).
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Keep Software Updated
- Regularly update your operating system, browsers, plugins, and antivirus software to protect against the latest threats. Many updates include critical security patches.
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Be Careful with Personal Information
- Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information such as your home address or Social Security number on websites unless absolutely necessary and only on secure, trusted sites.
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Verify Website Security
- Look for HTTPS in the website URL instead of HTTP and a padlock icon in the address bar. This indicates that the connection is encrypted and safer from eavesdroppers.
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Beware of Phishing Scams
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information or directing you to enter information on a suspicious website. Legitimate companies typically do not ask for sensitive information via email.
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Use Secure and Private Networks
- Prefer using private networks, especially when accessing confidential information. Public Wi-Fi networks can be less secure and more susceptible to monitoring and attacks.
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Regularly Backup Important Data
- Keep regular backups of your important data and documents on external drives or cloud storage to prevent data loss in case of malware attacks such as ransomware.
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Enable Privacy Settings
- Make use of the privacy settings in your web browsers and social media accounts to limit the amount of information shared and visible to strangers or third-party organizations.
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Install and Maintain Antivirus Software
- Use reputable antivirus software to regularly scan and protect your devices from malware, viruses, and other online threats.
By adhering to these practices, you can significantly enhance your security and privacy while browsing the internet.
Final Answer: A best practice when browsing the internet includes using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping software updated, being cautious about sharing personal information, verifying website security, being aware of phishing scams, using secure networks, backing up important data, enabling privacy settings, and maintaining antivirus software.