Secure connections: the foundation of cybersecurity

Every day, we use various types of connections on our devices, for example, to browse the internet or exchange information. Establishing a secure connection is a basic step that allows us to avoid risks and take full advantage of these technologies.

Our online activities undoubtedly involve connecting to the internet, other devices, our cars, etc. It is not enough to know the types of connections available and how to use them; it is also important to understand the risks they entail and how to avoid them.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about each type of connection (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, VPN) and provide a number of recommendations for using them safely. No more connections without security measures.

We will also identify the most common risks or threats that arise when secure connections are not established, such as identity theft, malware, personal data theft, espionage and surveillance, or the use of the network for illegal activities.

This training allows those who complete it to be prepared, for example, to prevent the interception of your personal data on a public Wi-Fi network, at an airport, or the theft of your personal data. If you want to avoid such incidents, read on to ensure your privacy.

What are secure connections? What types of connections are available?

Secure connections are connections that do not pose a security threat to users and devices. Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, NFC, and VPN are different types of connections that you can set up on your devices. Do you know what each of them means?

☑️ Wi-Fi: its function is to provide a wireless connection to the Internet.
☑️ Ethernet: connects to the internet via a cable, providing higher speed and stability.
☑️ Bluetooth: a short-range wireless connection for communicating with devices such as speakers, keyboards, or headphones.
☑️ NFC (Near Field Communication): wireless communication between devices that are physically close to each other. You have probably used it for mobile payments.
☑️ VPN (Virtual Private Network) establishes an encrypted connection between your device and the Internet, adding a layer of security to public networks and protecting confidential information.

Each of these connections can be useful to us, but without taking appropriate measures, they can become a point of entry into our devices.

The threat is clear: the risks of unsecured connections

Every time you connect, you expose yourself to security risks such as:

☑️ Identity theft: If you don’t use a secure connection, your data could be intercepted. This includes passwords, personal data, or payment information. What does this expose you to? Malicious actors could try to impersonate you to commit fraudulent activities.
☑️ Malware: Another risk you face is your devices being infected with malicious software that can damage your files, steal your information, or cause you to lose control of your electronic devices.
☑️ Phishing: This can occur when a cybercriminal intercepts communications between two devices due to an unsecured network, allowing them to falsify the messages you exchange and compromising your privacy.
☑️ Spying and surveillance: Your information is valuable, so unsecured connections can become a means of monitoring your behavior in the digital space, compromising your privacy.
☑️ Illegal use of the Internet: Imagine what could happen if someone passed off illegal activities as your own? Well, this can happen in digital format too. Examples include downloading or distributing copyrighted content, pornography, buying and selling weapons, and much more.

The first step is to identify potential threats in order to understand how cybercriminals use access to our information and personal data. Based on this, barriers can be put in place if you know how to do it.

Everything you need to know about connections: learn and use the recommendations

Remember, if you have questions or need help with cybersecurity, you can contact OFFphish for cybersecurity assistance. We offer free support.

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