How do you protect your self against Cyber-Threats ? Jackie have some great tips for you.

Cyber-Threats

The internet is an important resource for the LGBTQ+ community. In a recent study, 95% of LGBTQ youth said that they have found positive role models online. While it may be a great way to meet friends and build community, it is important for LGBTQ individuals to stay safe online. 46% of UK businesses faced cybersecurity breaches or attacks in the past year, and as companies work to improve their security in an age of increasing cyber-threats, individuals need to be extra vigilant about protecting their private information. Members of the  LGBTQ community are particularly vulnerable in the event of data breaches because of the homophobic persecution and discrimination that still exists across the world. While the internet is an invaluable resource for finding information and meeting other members of the community, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking precautions to keep your data and identity safe and secure online.

Practice Safe Password-ing

When using a service, especially one that could potentially disclose your LGBTQ+ identity, make sure to be extra vigilant about password protection. Juggling different passwords can be difficult to manage, but it is important that you never reuse a password. Create separate passwords for each account, and if you have trouble remembering them, either write them down or consider using a password service. In general, avoid using personal information like birthdays as passwords. The best passwords are strings of unrelated words, combined with numbers. Whenever available, turn on two-factor authentication, which will send a code to your phone or email whenever you attempt to log in to ensure that it is really you. This will ensure that your account any details about your communications or activity stay secure.

Be Aware of What You Share

Two out of every three > gay couples have met online. Because the LGBTQ+ community relies so heavily on online dating, this makes them  especially vulnerable to privacy violations. In general, there is always a possibility that photos or information you share online will become public. Use discretion and consider this risk when sharing photos or information that you would not be comfortable with coworkers or family members seeing. Consider making social media accounts private, and be aware of using your real name on various accounts. Ask for additional photos from the people with whom you’re chatting to ensure that they are real and who they claim to be. Some of these practices may seem uncomfortable, but reducing risk in advance will ensure you are protected in the long run.

Protect Your Data While Surfing

Providers and businesses are responsible for keeping users’ data safe. Unfortunately, the reality of cyber-threats means that for added protection, users should consider best practices when sharing information online and adjust their behaviour accordingly. When using LGBTQ+-specific websites or apps, there are many tech solutions that can help keep your data safer. Be careful when choosing services that claim to protect your data, but well-reviewed and well-known options can be extremely helpful, especially when your safety is at stake. When sending text messages, use an encrypted messaging service rather than regular SMS.

If you are using a public WiFi network, be sure to turn on a VPN service. When browsing, use “https” websites rather than “http” websites, which means that they are encrypted. When using any app, whether it be a data app or messaging service, read the privacy policy terms of data to understand what data is being shared.

Navigating the web in an age of increasing data insecurity can be especially risky for members of the LGBTQ+ community. However, with the proper, careful measures, you can protect your identity and safety online.

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About the Author

Jackie writes for MySoCalledGayLife.co.uk sporadically about everything between the topics of health and travel.