Taking steps to keep your personal data private, especially online, is one the best ways you can protect your personal information from cyber criminals and hackers who may try to use it for their own gain. Here are some key reasons why it is important to be careful with your information:

• Protecting your identity: Your personal information can be used to steal your identity and commit fraud. This includes even the most basic information including your name, address, or date of birth. If hackers gather enough of this information, they can use it to impersonate you in order to get even more information.
• Protecting your financial information: Bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and any other financial data are highly valuable to cyber criminals. If this data is compromised, you are at a high risk of financial loss and damage to your credit score.
• Protecting your personal relationships: Any information you give out online, whether it’s through a text message, email, or social media message or post, can be used to manipulate or exploit your relationships if it falls into the wrong hands.
• Protecting your reputation: Your professional and personal reputation can be negatively impacted if your information were to be used by hackers to impersonate you online.
• Protecting your privacy: Keeping your information as private as possible gives you more control of your overall privacy, allowing you to decide who has access to the information you want.

Here are some great initial steps to take to keep your personal data private online:

• Use strong passwords (the longer the better, use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and refrain from using words that are ties to your personal information).
• Enable two-factor authentication.
• Avoid sharing personal information on social media and other public platforms.
• Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments, as these can often be used to access your personal information.
• Visit Astra Bank’s Security Center to stay informed about current scams and learn tactics to avoid falling victim.

Protecting your data privacy is crucial in today’s digital age. The consequences of losing your information to data thieves can have strong and lasting effects on your financial, personal, and professional life. By taking the necessary precautions and being aware of potential threats, you can keep your personal information safe while online.