Online safety tips: Essential ways to stay safe online

Key takeaways

A few dos and don’ts to keep your data protected while browsing:

Why online safety matters

Online safety matters because personal data, accounts, and financial information are constantly exposed through everyday internet use. Current estimates suggest that cybercrime-related losses will reach around $10.29 trillion worldwide in 2025,¹ with projected costs rising to nearly $16 trillion by 2029.

Cyber threats continue to improve both in volume and sophistication, affecting email, social media sites, online banking, and work tools people rely on daily. When basic security practices are overlooked, the consequences can include identity theft, financial loss, account takeovers, and long-term privacy issues that are difficult to undo.

Cybercriminals rarely depend on complex techniques alone. Many incidents begin with common tactics such as stolen credentials, phishing messages, or unsecured connections that blend into normal online activity. Once attackers gain access, personal information may be leaked, sold, or misused through a data breach, often without the victim noticing right away.

10 essential online safety tips

Those dos and don’ts are the foundation. In my experience, the users who stay safest are the ones who build these principles into their routines. Here are the ten most important safety habits to focus on.

1. Use strong, unique passwords

Strong, unique passwords reduce the risk of unauthorized access by making accounts harder to break into. 

If you’re unsure how to create strong passwords, follow these tips:

• Combine letters, numbers, and symbols instead of relying on common words.
• Use a password that is long enough to resist guessing and automated attacks.
• Avoid predictable patterns, personal details, or reused phrases.
• Never reuse the same password across multiple accounts because one leaked login can expose several services at once.
• Use a reliable password manager.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication, often called 2FA, protects an account by requiring two separate forms of verification instead of relying on a password alone. Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, follows the same principle but may include additional verification steps, such as biometric checks or hardware-based keys.

Different 2FA and MFA methods offer different levels of protection:

• SMS codes provide basic protection but remain vulnerable to interception.
• Authenticator apps generate time-based codes that stay on your device.
• Physical security keys offer one of the strongest forms of account protection.

Working closely with breach-related security cases, I’ve noticed how often accounts remain protected simply because 2FA is enabled, especially for email, banking, and social media platforms.

When you set up two-factor authentication (2FA) or enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), you strengthen your account security by adding a layer that attackers cannot access remotely.

3. Keep software and devices updated

Keeping software up to date closes security gaps that attackers actively look for in outdated systems. Many security incidents happen simply because updates are postponed or ignored. 

Phones, laptops, tablets, and even home routers rely on regular updates to maintain a basic level of protection. Enabling automatic updates where possible helps ensure that operating systems and apps receive security patches as soon as they become available.

Internet security software also needs frequent updates to recognize new threats. When antivirus tools, firewalls, or web browsers’ protections fall behind, they lose their ability to detect malicious files, unsafe websites, and suspicious behavior effectively.

4. Recognize and avoid phishing scams

Phishing is a common online scam where cyber criminals impersonate trusted companies or people to trick users into sharing sensitive information or clicking malicious links. Phishing messages often arrive by email, text message, or social media sites and are designed to look familiar enough that users act before questioning them.

Most phishing attempts share a few clear warning signs, including:

• Messages that create urgency or pressure.
• Requests for login credentials, payment details, or verification codes.
• Links that lead to fake websites instead of official pages.

Suspicious links often lead to malicious websites that appear legitimate at first glance but are designed to gain access to personal accounts or sensitive information. A safer approach is to open a browser and type in the official website address instead of clicking links in messages. 

Careful attention to the address bar, including small spelling changes or unfamiliar domains, helps identify fake websites early. Tools that allow users to check if a link is safe, along with built-in anti-phishing protection, provide an added layer of defense before a page ever loads.

If you clicked on a dangerous link or shared information on a suspicious page, act quickly:

1. 1.Change passwords on all affected online accounts.
2. 2.Enable two-factor authentication on email, banking, and other connected accounts.
3. 3.Review recent account activity for unauthorized actions.

5. Be careful with what you share online

What you share online can expose more personal information than you intend, especially when it comes to social media platforms.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that people rarely lose data after sharing only one obvious detail. Problems usually start when small pieces of information appear across different platforms and posts. A photo here, a comment there, and a public profile setting can slowly reveal far more than expected.

To reduce unnecessary exposure, pay attention to what you share and where:

• Limit who can see what you post online by adjusting social media privacy settings.
• Review follower and friend lists regularly.
• Avoid sharing location data, routines, or travel plans publicly.
• Take extra care of your sensitive data, such as identification details or financial information.

6. Use secure connections and VPNs

Unsecured internet connections can expose personal data, particularly on unprotected public Wi-Fi networks where traffic is easy to intercept. A secure connection helps protect information as it travels between a device and a website or service.

Remember:

• Public Wi-Fi networks are untrusted environments. Even when apps use HTTPS, attackers on the same network may attempt traffic interception, phishing, or session hijacking — making logins and payments riskier without additional protection like VPN.
• A VPN encrypts internet traffic and protects data on public and private networks.
• HTTPS websites add strong encryption that protects login details and data from being seen, while VPNs add an extra privacy layer by hiding where you go online.
• Encrypted connections reduce the risk of tracking, data theft, and session hijacking.

7. Review privacy settings regularly

Privacy settings control how much personal information apps, websites, and platforms collect and share about you. As such settings often change over time, it’s important to review them regularly:

• Check privacy settings on apps and online platforms to see who can access your content and data.
• Limit data collection by disabling unnecessary tracking and personalized ads where possible.
• Audit app permissions and remove access that no longer makes sense, such as location, contacts, or microphone use.

Paying attention to privacy controls helps reduce long-term data exposure and reinforces why data privacy is important.

8. Back up your data

Regular backups protect personal files from loss caused by ransomware, device failure, or accidental deletion. When data exists in only one place, a single incident can wipe it out completely.

A reliable data backup routine usually includes:

• Keeping copies of important files on both cloud storage and physical drives.
• Following the 3-2-1 rule by storing three copies of data on two different types of media, with one copy kept offline.
• Updating backups regularly so recent files stay protected.

9. Use Threat Protection and security software

Threat Protection and internet security software help detect and block malicious activity before it reaches devices or online accounts. The solution provides real-time protection against scams, phishing, and unsafe downloads, while safeguarding your privacy. To ensure this defense works effectively, you need to:

• Use Threat Protection to block malicious links, scan downloads, and get real-time alerts when threats are detected.
• Combine antivirus tools with other cybersecurity tools such as firewalls and browser protections.
• Keep security software updated so it can recognize newly discovered threats.

10. Practice safe browsing

Safe browsing habits reduce exposure to malicious websites, trackers, and hidden threats during everyday internet use. These small changes in browsing behavior can significantly lower the risk:

• Choose options that allow you to browse anonymously when privacy matters.
• Use private browsers designed to limit tracking and data collection.
• Follow safe browsing habits, such as avoiding suspicious downloads and checking website addresses before entering personal information.

Common online threats to watch out for

Being aware of different online scams helps you stay alert and protected. My colleagues’ research into recent online threat statistics shows that phishing, fake websites, and account takeover scams remain among the most common ways users lose access to personal data and money. Knowing how these scams work makes them easier to spot before any damage is done.

Check the table below to find out more about the most popular online scams and reasons why they are so dangerous.

Internet safety tips for different situations

With such a big part of our lives happening online, it’s important to understand how to stay safe in different situations. While good cyber hygiene will keep you protected in many scenarios, some situations require specific tactics.

Online shopping safety tips

Online shopping security is key because purchasing items online has become a second nature for so many of us.

To stay safe, take care of the following:

• Verify the website before purchasing. Check the web address carefully, look for HTTPS in the address bar, and confirm that the store has clear contact details, return policies, and customer support.
• Use secure payment methods. Credit cards, virtual cards, and trusted payment services offer better protection and dispute options than direct bank transfers or wire payments.
• Watch for common shopping scams. Fake shop protection helps to identify fraudulent websites. Which usually has unrealistic discounts, urgent pressure tactics and requests for personal information outside the checkout process.

Online gaming safety tips

Online gaming is a go-to free-time activity for many, but it also poses some threats to your security online. By understanding online gaming security risks, you can enhance the chances of your data staying safe. 

Follow a few key steps:

• Use strong, unique passwords for gaming accounts.
• Be cautious of in-game purchases and suspicious offers.
• Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources that could contain malware.

Social media safety tips

Social media safety starts with controlling who can see your information and how others can interact with you.

To say protected:

• Review privacy settings regularly to limit who can view what you post online.
• Be selective with friend or follower requests, especially from online accounts you don’t recognize.
• Stay alert to social engineering tactics, where attackers use trust or urgency to extract information.

Many of these risks stem from common social media privacy issues, which often arise from default settings and oversharing rather than obvious malicious behavior.

Public Wi-Fi safety tips

Public Wi-Fi networks are open to anyone, allowing attackers to monitor traffic and steal sensitive data.

To reduce risk:

• Avoid connecting to open or public Wi-Fi when possible.
• If you do connect, avoid sensitive actions like banking or account logins.
• Use a VPN for public Wi-Fi security to encrypt traffic and protect personal data.

Online banking security tips

Online banking requires extra care because financial data attracts targeted attacks. To stay safe, follow the following habits:

• Access bank accounts only through official apps or websites.
• Monitor transactions regularly to spot unusual activity early.
• Avoid online banking on public or shared networks.
• Use a VPN for online banking to keep your sensitive financial data safe.

Online dating safety tips

Dating apps encourage quick connections, so protecting personal information from the very start is crucial.

• Never share personal details such as home address, workplace, or financial information.
• Watch for signs of romance scams, including fast emotional attachment or requests for money.
• Choose public places for first meetings and let someone else know where you are going.

Staying aware of common online dating scams helps reduce the risk of manipulation and even financial loss.

What to do if your security is compromised

If your security was compromised, taking immediate and focused action can limit damage and prevent further access to your accounts or data.

1. 1.Secure affected accounts right away. Change passwords for any accounts that may be involved, starting with email, banking, and cloud services, and enable two-factor authentication where it is not already active.
2. 2.Check account activity and revoke access. Review recent logins, transactions, and connected apps, then sign out of all active sessions and remove any tools or devices you do not recognize.
3. 3.Scan devices for malware. Run a full system scan using trusted internet security software to check for malware, spyware, or keyloggers that could continue collecting data even after passwords are changed.
4. 4.Monitor exposed information. Keep an eye on whether personal data appears in leaks or underground marketplaces by using dark web monitoring, which helps detect compromised credentials early.
5. 5.Report the incident where appropriate. Contact your bank, service providers, or local cybercrime authorities if financial information or identity data is involved.
6. 6.Strengthen future protection. Update security settings, review privacy controls, and improve everyday online security habits to reduce the risk of repeat incidents.

How a VPN enhances your online safety

A VPN improves online safety by encrypting internet traffic and limiting who can see or intercept online activity. It does not replace good security habits, but it adds an extra layer of protection — especially when combined with NordVPN’s Threat Protection, which blocks scams, phishing, and malicious websites before they load.

A VPN keeps you safe online because it:

• Encrypts internet traffic, which protects data from interception on unsecured or shared networks.
• Secures public Wi-Fi connections, reducing the risk of data theft at cafés, airports, or hotels.
• Limits tracking by internet service providers and third parties, helping protect browsing privacy.
• Adds another security layer that works alongside antivirus tools and other internet security tools.

Understanding the benefits of VPN protection helps clarify why many people use a VPN as part of a broader approach to staying safe online, especially when handling sensitive information or connecting outside trusted networks.

References

[1] https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1280009/cost-cybercrime-worldwide/