Is it safe to share personal details online?

In one way or another, we invariably find ourselves sharing personal details online. Whether it's signing up for a newsletter, registering to access a website, or simply making an online purchase, our presence online is a constant. So how do we keep our info safe when we're buzzing around online?

And how much trust can we place in the websites where we share our personal details? Let's delve into strategies to safeguard our information and ensure our safety when sharing personal details online.

SEE ALSO: Best practice steps for safe data sharing

When Would You Need to Share Personal Details Online?

Sharing personal details online should be done cautiously, but there are situations where it becomes necessary. For example, sometimes we need to share our info when engaging in e-commerce transactions, filling in online job applications, or playing games and betting online. 

There are also financial transactions, such as online banking and investments, which may also necessitate the sharing of personal details to ensure security. Additionally, when accessing healthcare or educational services online, individuals may need to share relevant personal information for appointment scheduling, medical history, or enrollment purposes. However, even in these scenarios, it is essential to exercise caution, using reputable websites and platforms, and being mindful of the information shared.

How to Share Personal Details Online Safely

Keeping your personal information safe online is like protecting your most valuable possessions. While keeping your personal information private applies across all activities online, there are a few examples that come to mind, including social media and online gaming, because of their popularity. Let’s explore those now. 

• Don’t Overshare on Social Media: It's common knowledge that sharing sensitive information like addresses and banking details on social media is risky. However, oversharing extends beyond these obvious details. Be cautious about the amount and nature of personal information you post. This includes seemingly harmless details like your daily routine, vacation plans, or even the location of your favorite hangouts.
• Online Gambling: It’s wise to keep your personal information as private as possible while gaming online. Luckily, this is now easier than ever before for savvy gamers and bettors with the introduction of no register casinos. Unlike traditional online casinos, no-account casinos allow players to register instantly, eliminating any potential wait time and sending bettors straight to a vast array of quality games while, most importantly, staying safe online.

Criminals can piece together your personal information over time to form a comprehensive picture of your life, which could lead to identity theft, stalking, or home burglaries when they know you're away.

To stay safe, consider the following:

• Limit your audience: Use privacy settings to control who can see your posts
• Think before you post: Ask yourself if the information you're about to share could be used maliciously
• Avoid location tagging: Refrain from tagging your exact location, especially when you're there
• Be mindful of photos: Sometimes, photos can reveal more than intended, like a home address or a high-value item in your house
• Be cautious with links and attachments
• Opt for anonymous and no-account gaming platforms when they’re available 

When it comes to sharing personal information online, one of the biggest risks comes from clicking on untrusted links or downloading attachments in emails and SMS. These are common tactics used by scammers to access your personal and financial details. Emails with poor spelling, generic greetings, or unfamiliar sender addresses should raise red flags. Be particularly wary of attachments, especially those with file types like .exe, .zip, or .pdf, which can often be used in scams.

Activating your email's security settings is like setting up an alarm system for your inbox, warning you of phishing dangers. Keeping your antivirus software updated acts as a shield, guarding against the latest cyber threats. To ensure the security of your information, consider the following tactics: 

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This is like a second lock for your online accounts. Two-factor authentication combines your password with a code sent to your phone which ensures double security. Even if someone cracks your password, they can't access your account without this special code sent to your phone or email, significantly boosting your digital security.
• Check Website Security: Before you enter personal details on a website, do a quick safety check. Look for 'https://' in the web address -- it's like a seal of security, showing the site encrypts your data. Also, if there's no privacy policy or contact info, think twice. It's like a warning sign that the site might not be trustworthy.
• Educate Yourself About Phishing Scams: Learning about phishing scams is like being street-smart online. These scams are tricky emails or messages that look legit but aim to steal your info. It's important to know their tricks, just like recognizing a shady character in a crowd, so you can steer clear and keep your details safe.

These simple steps are the best defense in keeping our details safe in the vast online world. It's like double-checking the locks on our doors at night; a small, familiar routine that offers significant protection.

Image Credit: Brooke Cagle