With the increasing amount of hacks, scams, malware and more, the Internet has become a risky and dangerous place these days. The recent proliferation of devices, right from smartphones and tablets to Internet-connected appliances has started to create even greater risks. But taking a small handful of security measures would help you to stay safe and secure online.

1. Always practice safe browsing
You will never choose to browse through a dangerous neighborhood online, but cybercriminals know that people are sometimes tempted by fishy content and may even let their guards down while searching for it. The Online platform is filled with hard to find pitfalls, where one single careless click could expose all your personal data or infect your device completely with malware. By resisting your crave towards suspicious content and by taking certain security measures you don't even give the hackers any scope to acquire your personal data.

2. Try to choose strong passwords
Passwords can definitely be called as the strongest weak spots in the entire Internet security. The major problem with passwords is that people tend to use easy passwords which they can remember easily, which makes the job simple for cyber thieves. Start to choose hard passwords with at least 15 characters using letters numbers and special characters. You can also make use of password manager software for managing multiple passwords and stay safe from hackers.

3. Use two-factor authentication
This mode of authentication will add another layer of protection while logging onto a website, banking, checking mails or other websites.  Google offers features that will instantly text you a code when you login to verify your identity.  Applications for two factor authentication is available on all major smartphone platforms. Make use of this feature while shopping, banking & for all other online activities.

4. Change your passwords regularly
Regular password change for your e-mail is necessary to stay safe and secure Online. Even if your password is strong, always make it a habit to change your passwords every 90 days. Most offices request you to change your e-mail password regularly to remove the chances of your account being accessed.

5. Signup for login notifications
This is a great layer of security which is offered by banking websites, social media platforms and other websites. Login notifications are used in the place of two-factor authentication by websites such as Facebook, where the account holder receives an instant notification via e-mail, application or text message when his account is accessed from an unfamiliar location. This feature can be found in the security settings of websites which will provide you with on the go protection.

6. Use an up-to-date security program
Always ensure that you have the most up-to-date version of a security program with proper security settings enabled. These security programs will protect your computer from malicious files such as key loggers and data miners. This layer of protection ensures that your devices such as phones, tablets and computers are fully protected while you’re downloading or accessing files.