{"id":3474,"date":"2025-02-17T23:49:58","date_gmt":"2025-02-17T22:49:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/?p=3474"},"modified":"2025-02-17T23:49:58","modified_gmt":"2025-02-17T22:49:58","slug":"how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Stay Safe on the Internet"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Stay Safe on the Internet should be a question you want answered immediately with the amount of information out there&#8230;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8230; many would wonder exactly how to stay safe on the internet because these days, nothing seems to be private anymore because you can easily dig up information on almost anybody with just a few clicks. However, staying safe online is easier than you might think.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this article, we\u2019ll explore some simple tips and tricks to help you protect yourself while enjoying everything the internet has to offer so w<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hether you\u2019re chatting with friends, shopping, or just looking for fun videos, knowing how to stay safe on the internet can make your online experience much better. So, let\u2019s look\u00a0 and learn how to surf the web safely together.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_76 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-black ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#How_to_Stay_Safe_on_the_Internet_Understanding_Online_Threats\" >How to Stay Safe on the Internet: Understanding Online Threats<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Malware\" >Malware<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Phishing\" >Phishing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Social_Engineering\" >Social Engineering<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Identity_Theft\" >Identity Theft<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Unsecured_Wi-Fi_Networks\" >Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Online_Scams\" >Online Scams<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Insecure_Websites\" >Insecure Websites<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Creating_Strong_Passwords\" >Creating Strong Passwords<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Make_It_Long\" >Make It Long:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Use_a_Mix_of_Characters\" >Use a Mix of Characters:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Avoid_Common_Words_and_Phrases\" >Avoid Common Words and Phrases:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Use_Passphrases\" >Use Passphrases:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Dont_Reuse_Passwords\" >Don\u2019t Reuse Passwords:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Use_a_Password_Manager\" >Use a Password Manager:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Change_Your_Passwords_Regularly\" >Change Your Passwords Regularly:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication_2FA\" >Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Be_Careful_with_Security_Questions\" >Be Careful with Security Questions:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Enabling_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >Enabling Two-Factor Authentication<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#What_is_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >What is Two-Factor Authentication?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Why_Use_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >Why Use Two-Factor Authentication?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#How_to_Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/how-to-stay-safe-on-the-internet\/#Guide_for_Using_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >Guide for Using Two-Factor Authentication<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Stay_Safe_on_the_Internet_Understanding_Online_Threats\"><\/span><strong>How to Stay Safe on the Internet: Understanding Online Threats<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As we continue our journey on how to stay safe on the internet, it\u2019s important to understand the different types of online threats that can put our personal information and safety at risk. Knowing about these threats can help us protect ourselves better. Let\u2019s break down some of the most common online threats in simple terms.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Malware\"><\/span><strong> Malware<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malware is short for &#8220;malicious software.&#8221; This is any software designed to harm your computer or steal your information. There are different types of malware, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Viruses:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These can spread from one computer to another, often through email attachments or downloads. Once they get into your system, they can damage files or steal information.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Spyware:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This type of malware secretly watches what you do on your computer. It can track your online activities and collect personal information without you knowing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Ransomware:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is a dangerous type of malware that locks your files and demands money to unlock them. If you don\u2019t pay, you might lose access to your important documents and photos.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phishing\"><\/span><strong> Phishing<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phishing is a trick used by cybercriminals to steal your personal information, like passwords or credit card numbers. They often do this by pretending to be someone you trust, like a bank or a popular website.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You might receive an email or a message that looks real, asking you to click on a link. If you click it, you could be taken to a fake website that looks just like the real one. If you enter your information there, the criminals can steal it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Read also <a href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/5-ways-to-identify-phishing-scams-with-ease\/\">5 ways to identify phishing scams with ease.<\/a><\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Social_Engineering\"><\/span><strong> Social Engineering<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imperva.com\/learn\/application-security\/social-engineering-attack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Social engineering<\/a> is when someone tricks you into giving them your personal information. This can happen in many ways, such as through phone calls, emails, or even in person.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, a scammer might call you pretending to be from your bank, asking for your account details. They might use information they already have to make themselves sound trustworthy. Always be cautious and verify who you are talking to before sharing any information.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Identity_Theft\"><\/span><strong> Identity Theft<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information, like your name, Social Security number, or bank details, and uses it to impersonate you. This can lead to serious problems, such as unauthorized purchases or loans taken out in your name.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To protect yourself, regularly check your bank statements and credit reports. If you notice anything suspicious, report it immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unsecured_Wi-Fi_Networks\"><\/span><strong> Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using public Wi-Fi networks, like those in cafes or airports, can be risky. These networks are often not secure, which means that hackers can easily access your information if you connect to them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To stay safe, avoid accessing sensitive information, like online banking, when using public Wi-Fi. If you must use it, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Online_Scams\"><\/span><strong> Online Scams<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many scams online that can trick you into losing money or giving away personal information. These can include fake lottery winnings, investment opportunities that sound too good to be true, or even fake job offers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true. If something doesn\u2019t feel right, trust your instincts and do some research before taking any action.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Insecure_Websites\"><\/span><strong> Insecure Websites<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you visit a website, look for &#8220;https:\/\/&#8221; at the beginning of the web address. The &#8220;s&#8221; stands for secure, meaning the site is using encryption to protect your data. If you see &#8220;http:\/\/&#8221; without the &#8220;s,&#8221; it\u2019s best to avoid entering any personal information on that site.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Knowing how to stay safe on the internet includes knowing how to identify insecure websites and steer clear from them. Insecure websites are those websites whose <a href=\"https:\/\/www.digicert.com\/what-is-an-ssl-certificate#:~:text=Secure%20Sockets%20Layer%20(SSL)%20is,client%20(e.g.%2C%20Outlook).\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SSL<\/a> certificates have not been verified by google to be secure for users.<\/p>\n<p>Also read:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/threads-launches-option-for-public-custom-feeds\/\">Threads Launches Option for Public Custom Feeds<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Creating_Strong_Passwords\"><\/span><strong>Creating Strong Passwords<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that we understand the importance of learning how to stay safe on the internet, it\u2019s important to know just how to protect ourselves from online threats and just how to stay safe on the internet while doing the things we love. The first thing you must understand in knowing how to stay safe on the internet is to <em>keep your passwords in check!<\/em> <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not just any password but a <em>strong<\/em> one! A strong password is like a good lock for your online accounts. It keeps your personal information safe from hackers and other bad actors. Here are some simple tips to help you create strong passwords.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Make_It_Long\"><\/span><strong> Make It Long:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The longer your password, the harder it is for someone to guess. Aim for at least 12 to 16 characters. A longer password is like a longer key; it takes more time and effort to pick the lock. A long password is harder to decode by anybody; it could be a phone number no one knows about.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_a_Mix_of_Characters\"><\/span><strong> Use a Mix of Characters:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A strong password should include a mix of different types of characters:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uppercase letters (A, B, C)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowercase letters (a, b, c)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Numbers (1, 2, 3)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Special characters (like !, @, #, $)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, instead of using &#8220;password123,&#8221; you could use &#8220;P@ssw0rd!2023&#8221;. This mix makes it much harder for someone to guess.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_Common_Words_and_Phrases\"><\/span><strong> Avoid Common Words and Phrases:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t use easily guessable information, like your name, birthday, or common words like &#8220;password&#8221; or &#8220;123456.&#8221; Hackers often use lists of common passwords to try and break into accounts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Passphrases\"><\/span><strong> Use Passphrases:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of a single word, consider using a passphrase. A passphrase is a series of words strung together. For example, &#8220;BlueSky!Dances@Night&#8221; is much stronger than &#8220;blue.&#8221; You can make it even more secure by adding numbers or special characters.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_Reuse_Passwords\"><\/span><strong> Don\u2019t Reuse Passwords:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It might be tempting to use the same password for multiple accounts, but this is risky. If one account gets hacked, all your other accounts could be at risk too. Try to create unique passwords for each of your accounts.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_a_Password_Manager\"><\/span><strong> Use a Password Manager:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you find it hard to remember all your different passwords, consider using a password manager. This is a tool that securely stores your passwords and can even help you create strong ones. With a password manager, you only need to remember one master password.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Change_Your_Passwords_Regularly\"><\/span><strong> Change Your Passwords Regularly:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a good idea to change your passwords every few months. This way, even if someone has your password, they won\u2019t have it for long.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"8\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication_2FA\"><\/span><strong> Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whenever possible, turn on two-factor authentication for your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone gets your password, they will also need a second piece of information (like a code sent to your phone) to access your account.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol start=\"9\">\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Be_Careful_with_Security_Questions\"><\/span><strong> Be Careful with Security Questions:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When setting up security questions, choose answers that are not easily guessable. For example, instead of using your mother\u2019s maiden name, you could use a made-up answer that only you would know.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>You may have missed:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/google-has-promised-not-to-develop-ai-weapons\/\">Google has Promised not to Develop AI Weapons<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Enabling_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span><strong>Enabling Two-Factor Authentication<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3521 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-300x171.jpeg\" alt=\"How to Stay Safe on the Internet\" width=\"300\" height=\"171\" srcset=\"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-300x171.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you know how to create strong passwords, the next step to keep your online accounts safe is to enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This is an extra layer of security that helps protect your accounts even if someone gets hold of your password.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span><strong>What is Two-Factor Authentication?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Two-Factor Authentication means that to log into your account, you need two things: your password and a second piece of information. This second piece can be something you have, like your phone, or something you are, like your fingerprint. This way, even if someone knows your password, they still can\u2019t get into your account without the second piece of information.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Use_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span><strong>Why Use Two-Factor Authentication?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><b> Extra Security:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It makes it much harder for someone to access your account. Even if they steal your password, they still need the second factor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Peace of Mind:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Knowing that you have an extra layer of protection can help you feel safer about your online activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span><strong>How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s a simple step-by-step guide to enable 2FA on your accounts:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b> Log into Your Account:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Start by logging into the account you want to secure. This could be your email, social media, or any other online service.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Go to Security Settings:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Look for a section called \u201cSecurity\u201d or \u201cAccount Settings.\u201d This is usually found in the menu, often under your profile or account name.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Find Two-Factor Authentication:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In the security settings, look for an option that says \u201cTwo-Factor Authentication,\u201d \u201c2-Step Verification,\u201d or something similar.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Choose Your Method:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You will usually have a few options for the second factor:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Text Message (SMS):<\/strong> You can receive a code via text message to your phone.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Authentication App:<\/strong> You can use an app like Google Authenticator which generates a code for you.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Email:<\/strong> Some services allow you to receive a code via email.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Hardware Token:<\/strong> This is a physical device that generates codes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><b> Follow the Instructions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Once you choose your method, follow the instructions provided. If you select SMS, you\u2019ll need to enter your phone number and verify it by entering a code sent to you. If you choose an authentication app, you\u2019ll need to scan a QR code with the app.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Save Backup Codes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many services will give you backup codes when you enable 2FA. Write these down and keep them in a safe place. If you ever lose access to your second factor (like if you lose your phone), these codes can help you get back into your account.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Guide_for_Using_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span><strong>Guide for Using Two-Factor Authentication<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In knowing how to stay safe on the internet, it is prerequisite and necessary to have knowledge of 2FA also known as two-factor authentication. You may have come across it in popular educational platforms or even in popular whatsapp. What&#8217;s the use of this 2FA?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you use your phone for 2FA, making sure it\u2019s protected with a password or fingerprint is one way to be safe\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you change your phone number or lose your phone, update your 2FA settings immediately.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If possible, use different methods for different accounts. For example, use SMS for one account and an authentication app for another.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By enabling Two-Factor Authentication, you are taking a big step towards keeping your online accounts safe. It may seem like a little extra work, but it\u2019s worth it for the added security. Remember, protecting your personal information is important, and 2FA is a great tool to help you do just that. Now that you know just how to stay safe on the internet, share this information with your family and friends so that they too can learn just how to stay safe on the internet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How to Stay Safe on the Internet should be a question you want answered immediately with the amount of information out there&#8230; &#8230; many would wonder exactly how to stay safe on the internet because these days, nothing seems to be private anymore because you can easily dig up information on almost anybody with just<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":3521,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rop_custom_images_group":[],"rop_custom_messages_group":[],"rop_publish_now":"initial","rop_publish_now_accounts":[],"rop_publish_now_history":[],"rop_publish_now_status":"pending","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[109,224],"tags":[209,204],"class_list":{"0":"post-3474","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-how-to","8":"category-cyber-security","9":"tag-cybersecurity","10":"tag-online-privacy"},"acf":[],"magazineBlocksPostFeaturedMedia":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-150x150.jpeg","medium":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-300x171.jpeg","medium_large":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","large":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","1536x1536":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","2048x2048":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","bunyad-small":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","bunyad-medium":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","bunyad-full":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","bunyad-viewport":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","bunyad-768":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","mailpoet_newsletter_max":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg"},"magazineBlocksPostAuthor":{"name":"Favour Godson","avatar":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/52e1a3a238064971e7f9b25ff68ac24153a73d73d292c13bf1a1f96c7d445597?s=96&d=wavatar&r=g"},"magazineBlocksPostCommentsNumber":"0","magazineBlocksPostExcerpt":"How to Stay Safe on the Internet should be a question you want answered immediately with the amount of information out there&#8230; &#8230; many would wonder exactly how to stay safe on the internet because these days, nothing seems to be private anymore because you can easily dig up information on almost anybody with just","magazineBlocksPostCategories":["how to","Cyber Security"],"magazineBlocksPostViewCount":903,"magazineBlocksPostReadTime":10,"magazine_blocks_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg",700,400,false],"medium":["https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-300x171.jpeg",300,171,true],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-150x150.jpeg",150,150,true]},"magazine_blocks_author":{"display_name":"Favour Godson","author_link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/author\/favour\/"},"magazine_blocks_comment":2,"magazine_blocks_author_image":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/52e1a3a238064971e7f9b25ff68ac24153a73d73d292c13bf1a1f96c7d445597?s=96&d=wavatar&r=g","magazine_blocks_category":"<a href=\"#\" class=\"category-link category-link-109\">how to<\/a> <a href=\"#\" class=\"category-link category-link-224\">Cyber Security<\/a>","jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg","blog_post_layout_featured_media_urls":{"thumbnail":["https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet-150x150.jpeg",150,150,true],"full":["https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-to-Stay-Safe-on-the-Internet.jpeg",700,400,false]},"categories_names":{"109":{"name":"how to","link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/category\/how-to\/"},"224":{"name":"Cyber Security","link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/category\/technology\/cyber-security\/"}},"tags_names":{"209":{"name":"Cybersecurity","link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/tag\/cybersecurity\/"},"204":{"name":"Online privacy","link":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/tag\/online-privacy\/"}},"comments_number":"0","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3474","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3474"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3474\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3522,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3474\/revisions\/3522"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3521"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3474"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3474"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/divplanet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3474"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}