Keeping your data secure

As web developers, for secure websites, we often get asked about best practices for securing data. We all would like to have our data secure and protected, but we often take shortcuts in the name of simplicity. Consider these simple tips to keeping your personal data safe and secure.

1. Don’t share your password. I know this sounds obvious. However, it deserves to be repeated. Don't share your password.
2. Create a good password. You would be surprised by the number of times the word ‘password’ is a chosen. Don't do that. Don't spell it backward either. Choose a password offering a combination of characters and letters. !likeComputR$ is an example of a creative way to create a password you will remember. Use special characters that are similar to the letters they replace, like $ for S or 1 for I.
3. Do not use browser plugins you have not researched. Be sure you know what the plugin will do before you add it to your settings.
4. Lastly, if someone sends you a link, think before you click. Review the context of the link, check the url and make sure it is something you have either asked for or need before you go to the site. For instance, if you get an email from your bank telling you to click a link in the email. Look at the link to ensure it has the bank's name in the URL. If in doubt, look up the phone number and call.

Just a few tips for you to consider. Surf away.

Have you had any security breaches? How did you fix the problem.