What Is Digital Security?
Digital security is a set of best practices and tools used to safeguard data, online identity and information. It includes password managers, parental controls, antivirus programs and mobile security tools that can protect against malware and help prevent identity theft. It can also include security patches and updates, secure configurations of devices, systems and applications and a range of other protective measures. Some people use the terms digital and cyber security interchangeably, but digital security focuses on protecting individual users, whereas cyber security protects networks, computer systems and other digital infrastructure.
A good example of digital security is a virus-prevention program that scans and eliminates viruses, which can bring a business’ operations to a halt. In addition, the virus can steal personal information from employees or customers. Such a breach of security can lead to losses due to missed transactions and loss of trust from clients.
The other main type of digital security is encryption, which keeps data packets private. This helps protect against man-in-the-middle attacks, in which attackers can intercept and modify data without authorized users on either end knowing anything’s wrong. Encrypting a network’s connections and not using public Wi-Fi can significantly reduce the risk of such attacks.
Digital security is an important issue for both individuals and businesses. In a world where the most valuable commodity is personal information, it’s imperative to have an appropriate level of protection in place for your digital assets. The best way to do this is through an ongoing commitment to good internet hygiene, including regularly checking bank statements and updating antivirus software.