Ways to protect gadgets from hacking

MANILA, Philippines — These days, we rely too much on our gadgets to allow them to be hacked.

For research and information, communication, and entertainment, we depend on technology on hand—such as mobile phones, computers, and laptops—a lot. So when we get hacked, it is a disaster beyond what we can imagine. So how do you effectively protect your gadgets from hacking?

Here are helpful tips from CIMB Bank Philippines, a digital-only commercial bank providing innovative mobile-first digital banking solutions and services:  

This is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your gadgets from hacking. You need to keep your software up to date, including your operating system, antivirus software, and all the apps on your device. Updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities hackers could exploit.

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, making them a prime target for hackers. So, avoid conducting sensitive transactions, such as online banking or shopping, when connected to public Wi-Fi. If you must use public networks, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your Internet connection.

Set up a PIN, password, or biometric authentication (like fingerprint or face recognition) to lock your devices when they are not in use. This way, if your device is lost or stolen, it’s much more challenging for hackers to gain access to its contents. Most online services and apps now offer two-factor authentication as an added layer of security. This typically involves receiving a code on your smartphone that you must enter along with your password, making it harder for unauthorized users to log in.

Phishing emails and messages are common methods that hackers use to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Always verify the sender’s authenticity and be wary of unsolicited links or requests for personal information. When something seems suspicious, do not click it.

Keep up to date with the latest hacking techniques and trends. Learning to recognize signs of suspicious activity on your devices and being cautious about what you download or install can significantly lessen your chances of getting hacked.

When trying to keep