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Day 6

Are costly online security tools a racket?

Web developers have rushed to fix Heartbleed, a massive online security flaw that's highlighted just how vulnerable a person can be online, despite the existence of sophisticated security products. In this segment, Dragnet Nation author Julia Angwin talks about the dramatic measures she took to protect her personal data -- and most importantly, whether it was worth it. Web Bonus:...
CBC Radio ·
Web developers have rushed to fix Heartbleed, a massive online security flaw that's highlighted just how vulnerable a person can be online, despite the existence of sophisticated security products. In this segment, Dragnet Nation author Julia Angwin talks about the dramatic measures she took to protect her personal data -- and most importantly, whether it was worth it.

Web Bonus: Click "Read More" for James Lyne's top online security tips. 


Online Security on the Cheap

There are all sorts of products you can buy to boost your online security, but none of them will do you any good if you aren't taking certain basic steps to protect yourself. James Lyne of the security firm Sophos shares his top three, must-follow, no-nonsense online security tips. Total Cost: $0


 

1. Consider Lying on the Internet

If a service provider doesn't need your date of birth, but requires you to provide one, then just come up with another date of birth you can easily remember. That way, if that information is lost, they're handing away fake information that isn't going to compromise you personally.

 

2. Say Yes to Software Updates 

Next time you see a pop-up on your desktop saying, "Please patch your web browser" or "Update your Operating System," it's really important that you apply those fixes to make sure attackers can't silently install malicious code. Slightly inconvenient, but totally worth it.

 

3. Really Good Passwords  

There's no point buying expensive products hoping to be secure, if you're using a password like "password2014." Try and use something that's a little longer and contains a mix of different types of characters -- like numbers or symbols. (Pro-tip: Try a line from your favourite song.)

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