By Olubunmi Adebayo
*Yesterday, we discussed the fact that nefarious people are operating the ever largest scanning machine over our email account, Facebook account, WhatsApp account, and bank account. Such that someone in far away India or Russia can tamper with and compromise your accounts in one remote town in Nigeria.*
*Today, we shall be considering some of the steps we can take to safeguard these accounts and platforms listed above.*
*1) Securing our communication accounts and platforms :*
*A) We are advised to use strong, unique passwords : desist from reusing passwords across several platforms you may be operating.*
*To this end, you may need to use a password manager to help out appropriately, and to avoid any mix-up.*
*B) We are encouraged to use the Two-Factor Authentication procedure. We are to add an extra layer of security to our email, Facebook, WhatsApp accounts, etc.*
*C) Use end-to-end encrypted messaging. WhatsApp and Signal are good options in this area.*
*D) Verify contacts : We are encouraged to be cautious when sharing sensitive information. Do well to verify people’s identity as much as it is possible.*
*To this end, beware of strange calls, introducing themselves as “Customer Service Officers” from your bank or communication service providers.*
*2) Securing our Bank Accounts.*
*A) It is suggested that we monitor our accounts regularly. We are to check for suspicious transactions.*
*B) We are to use strong, unique passwords to operate our accounts. And we are to keep such information very private and secured.*
*C) Request for transaction alerts on your bank accounts. Ensure that you get notified of every transaction on your accounts as appropriate. Do not hesitate to get in touch with your bank in case of any suspicious move.*
*D) You are advised to use secure networks – MTN, GLo, Airtell,etc. For your own good, you are to avoid the use of public Wi-Fi for banking related operations.*
*3) Platform Security :*
*A) Keep your devices updated from time to time. Your updating should include security patches as appropriate.*
*B) You are advised to use antivirus software. This will protect your systems against malware.*
*C) You are encouraged to be cautious with links and attachments: As much as possible, avoid suspicious links and attachments from unverified sources.*
*Relating to some of the suggestions raised above, you may wish to seek deeper information from trusted professionals about them.*
Top of the day to you
©️ Olubunmi S Adebayo.
