When it comes to protecting yourself online, many people stick to the basics—strong passwords, two-factor authentication (2FA), and using a VPN. But did you know there are other simple and highly effective cybersecurity practices that often go unnoticed? These methods can protect your information, prevent data breaches, and safeguard your identity online. Let’s explore these seven underrated yet easy-to-implement cybersecurity tips.
1. Use a Separate Email for Sensitive Activities
Create a dedicated email address specifically for your financial accounts, such as banking, investments, or other high-priority accounts. This makes it harder for phishing attacks to succeed, as hackers won’t know which email address is linked to your sensitive activities.
Why it works:
Your primary email, which is widely used for subscriptions, communication, or online registrations, is more likely to end up in the hands of bad actors. By using a “secret” email that you don’t share publicly, you minimize the risk of scammers accessing important accounts through phishing emails.
How to do it:
- Create a new email account using a secure provider like Gmail, ProtonMail, or Tutanota.
- Update email settings in your financial accounts to use this new address exclusively.
2. Use Virtual Credit Cards for Online Transactions
Virtual credit cards are an excellent way to protect your financial information when shopping online. They generate a unique card number for each transaction, which hides your real card details from merchants.
Why it works:
Even if a hacker breaches a merchant’s database, your real credit card information remains safe. Virtual cards also allow you to set limits, making it harder for unauthorized charges to occur.
How to do it:
- Use services like Privacy.com or your bank’s virtual card feature.
- Replace your physical card details with a virtual card for online purchases.
3. Use Tap-to-Pay Instead of Physical Cards
If you’re still swiping or inserting your credit card at payment terminals, it’s time to switch to tap-to-pay technology. Services like Apple Pay or Google Pay tokenize your card details, creating a secure layer between you and the merchant.
Why it works:
Tap-to-pay ensures that your actual credit card number is never shared with merchants. Instead, a temporary token is used for the transaction, protecting your data from being stolen.
How to do it:
- Add your credit card to the wallet app on your smartphone or smartwatch.
- Use the tap-to-pay feature at stores, cafés, or kiosks whenever possible.
4. Generate Unique Username Emails for Logins
Most people re-use their email address across multiple accounts. But what if you could create a unique email for each login? This simple trick adds a layer of protection to your accounts.
Why it works:
When combined with strong passwords, having unique emails for different accounts makes it almost impossible for hackers to access all your logins, even in the event of a data breach.
How to do it:
- Use email tools like Apple’s “Hide My Email” feature, ProtonMail’s SimpleLogin, or append unique identifiers with Gmail by adding “+[identifier]” to your address (e.g., [email protected]).
- Apply this practice to new accounts you create going forward.
5. Set Up a Credit Freeze
A credit freeze prevents lenders from accessing your credit history, making it much harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
Why it works:
Even if a hacker has your Social Security number or other details, a credit freeze blocks them from using your information to apply for loans or credit cards.
How to do it:
- Contact major credit bureaus like Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.
- Request a freeze on your credit, which you can easily lift temporarily if you need to apply for credit yourself.
6. Remove Your Personal Data from Data Brokers
Data brokers collect and sell personal information such as your address, phone number, and email. This information is often used by scammers or hackers attempting to trick you into revealing sensitive details.
Why it works:
Eliminating your data from these platforms reduces the chances of being targeted. While this can be time-intensive, you also have the option of using services that do it for you, like DeleteMe.
How to do it:
- Identify which data brokers hold your information. Common ones include Whitepages, Spokeo, and MyLife.
- Follow each site’s opt-out request process, or use a third-party service to remove your details automatically.
7. Prioritize Physical Device Security
You may have robust online protections, but what about your physical devices? Protecting your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any device you use is essential to ensure they remain secure.
Why it works:
Lost or stolen devices are an entry point for hackers. Thankfully, basic precautions like device encryption and screen locks make it nearly impossible for bad actors to retrieve data.
How to do it:
- Turn on encryption for your devices (this is usually enabled by default on modern smartphones).
- Use strong passwords, PINs, or biometric authentication (like fingerprint or face recognition) for device access.
- Enable “Find My Device” features for remote locking or wiping in case of theft.
Proactive Cybersecurity Matters
Online security is no longer optional—it’s essential. Following these lesser-known tips can greatly enhance your digital safety, reduce hackers’ chances of accessing your personal data, and help you stay one step ahead.
Want to make sure all your personal information is truly protected? Services like DeleteMe can save you hours of effort by removing your data from data brokers. They’ve made cybersecurity a simple, stress-free process.
By adopting these tips, you can enjoy peace of mind while navigating an increasingly connected world. Remember, cybersecurity isn’t just about avoiding attack; it’s about building proactive habits that ensure your safety every day.
