{"id":3898,"date":"2024-03-14T16:33:53","date_gmt":"2024-03-14T16:33:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/?p=3898"},"modified":"2024-03-19T08:35:19","modified_gmt":"2024-03-19T08:35:19","slug":"cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers\/","title":{"rendered":"Cybersecurity tips for freelancers \u2013 how to protect your files, finances, and devices"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers\/#Best_cybersecurity_practices_for_freelancers\" >Best cybersecurity practices for freelancers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers\/#Advanced_cybersecurity_tips_for_freelancers\" >Advanced cybersecurity tips for freelancers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers\/#Cybersecurity_practices_for_freelancers_%E2%80%93_where_to_start\" >Cybersecurity practices for freelancers \u2013 where to start?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I become a hacker\u2019s target? Is protecting my online data and computer files worth the extra effort? The answer is always \u201cyes.\u201d Whether you use your computer for private or professional purposes, you\u2019re a potential target for cybercrime.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If now you\u2019re thinking, \u201cReally? Who cares about my one-person freelance business? Cybersecurity is for big fishes,\u201d we won\u2019t try to prove you wrong. But these statistics will:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tech.co\/news\/82-of-ransomware-attacks-target-small-businesses-report-reveals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">report by Coveware<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, cyber extortion recovery specialists, <\/span><b>every 6 out of 100 companies with 1 to 10 employees become victims of ransomware<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. One of the reasons is that small businesses don\u2019t suspect hackers to target them instead of big, rich, and influential companies.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Therefore, they\u2019re likely to lack the necessary protection against most common cyber threats or even don\u2019t know the basic cybersecurity tips for freelancers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>As a freelancer, you receive and store sensitive client information, so it\u2019s your responsibility to protect it<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially under EU data protection laws (GDPR). This includes protecting client data and ensuring digital security.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you work remotely, your laptop is like a hand for a carpenter or a leg for a football player. Simply put \u2013 it\u2019s your money, and you should protect it against cyber attacks. <\/span><b>Implementing cybersecurity tips will safeguard your freelance business<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We\u2019ll show you how.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_cybersecurity_practices_for_freelancers\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cybersecurity practices for freelancers<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remote workers must stay vigilant against cyber threats, protecting their files, devices, personal and financial information, and client data. Luckily, we have robust solutions to help you stay protected. Check our list of cybersecurity tips for freelancers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Strong passwords and password manager \u2013 essential security practices<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using a password manager that generates and remembers your passwords is a must-have for every computer user, let alone a freelancer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It might seem common knowledge, but let\u2019s stress it \u2013 you shouldn\u2019t use the same password for several logins. <\/span><b>Coming up with new complex passwords for every login is necessary to ensure cybersecurity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and it\u2019s better to keep all of them in a safe password manager vault.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For everyday use, you can go for free tools \u2013 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/passwords.google.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Password Manager<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.apple.com\/en-gb\/guide\/mac-help\/mchlf375f392\/14.0\/mac\/14.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apple Keychain<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. They\u2019re both major steps towards protecting your online accounts. Organizations should opt for paid managers, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bitwarden.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bitwarden<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastpass.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LastPass<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/1password.com\/pricing?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=10771880804&amp;utm_content=454631718648&amp;utm_term=1password&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwncWvBhD_ARIsAEb2HW_YIRTBz-ONK06jwWyn17Y3sVoM77BHNWAnBO2Oh90PoZN4Ki81lcEaAkvxEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1Password<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or an open-source one \u2013 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/keepass.info\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">KeePass<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another safe habit is to change passwords regularly, e.g., every six months. With a password manager, it\u2019s way more convenient. The app will generate as many random strong passwords as you want.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>When you enter a password to your password manager, save it along with the login page<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. One of the phishing methods is to fool you into logging in to a fake login page and consequently give away your username and password. You can prevent it thanks to a password manager that will autofill your password only on the exact URL.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All in all, password manager assistance is threefold:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it securely stores your passwords and lets you access them all in one place;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it generates strong, unique passwords for every login;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it remembers login pages, protecting you from phishing scams, including fake login pages.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Antivirus \u2013 your defense against cyber attacks<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Picking the right antivirus software is necessary for every computer owner, especially for someone who relies on it as their means of work. The built-in antivirus protection might be insufficient. Research the most reliable antivirus software and install one that provides extensive digital security for freelancers, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>malware and ransomware prevention<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 to detect and block malicious software used by hackers to steal data and harm computer systems;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>email filtering<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 it\u2019ll help you detect phishing attacks and spam;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>low memory usage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 choose a lightweight antivirus to save RAM for your working files;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>reliable customer support <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 check if you\u2019ll have ongoing access to consultants who solve problems with antivirus software;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>firewall software<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 pick an antivirus with a firewall package to block your network from external cyber attacks, ensuring safe web browsing and file transfer;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>browsing protection<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 to search the web without worrying about malicious websites and links.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>No matter what antivirus protection you want to employ, always scrutinize its privacy policy first<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Opt for reputable companies with transparent privacy policies that prioritize your data protection. Look for options that allow you to control what data is collected and how it&#8217;s used.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also consider using an online virus scanner, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virustotal.com\/gui\/home\/upload\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VirusTotal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but be careful using a free plan \u2013 your files might not be completely private.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Virtual Private Network (VPN) \u2013 to protect your internet traffic<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why do so many YouTubers promote virtual private networks in their videos? It\u2019s really useful for everyone working remotely from various places because<\/span><b> it lets you use the internet via a private and encrypted secure connection<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a VPN, every location is a safe location. It boosts your cybersecurity level in several ways:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">your location, IP address, and personal details are protected from hackers;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">you can access websites and apps abroad as if you were in your country;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">you have a fast internet connection;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">your files are shared securely.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a VPN, you can work outside the house and <\/span><b>connect your personal devices to public Wi-Fi without risking client data theft or losing your files<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all your devices<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a barrier that enforces at least one more credential apart from a username and password to log in to a website or app. <\/span><b>This extra security layer can be a fingerprint, facial recognition, an authenticator app, a one-time SMS code<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, etc. If MFA requires only one more credential, it\u2019s called two-factor authentication (2FA).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, when you set MFA, you\u2019ll get a list of backup codes you can use in case you lose access to your phone number and can\u2019t read a text message code. This method is employed, e.g., in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/knowledge.hubspot.com\/account-security\/set-up-two-factor-authentication-for-your-hubspot-login\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hubspot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Print and keep them in a safe place (but don\u2019t forget where!)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advanced authentication can protect your devices against cyber attacks, e.g., phishing scams, brute force attacks (password guessing), ransomware, or keyloggers (tracking keystrokes). Many apps have multi-factor authentication turned on manually, so go to the settings and check if it\u2019s possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Software updates \u2013 cyber threats under control<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your device constantly asks you to schedule an update, and you close the tab thinking, \u201cLeave me alone,\u201d we get it. But it can harm your cybersecurity. You should update your operating systems and programs whenever an update comes up. <\/span><b>A new version of software may<\/b> <b>have more advanced data breach protection features<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Luckily, browsers and most software update automatically, so your only job is not to turn it off.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Anti-phishing email scanners \u2013 watch out for giving away sensitive data<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phishing attacks aim to steal essential data, such as card numbers, tax information, or passwords, by acting as a legitimate institution and tricking individuals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phishing is widely used in email cybercrime involving data breaches. For example,<\/span><b> a freelancer can get an email that looks like a message from a platform they use, requesting to provide their password<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> because they\u2019ve noticed suspicious activity or a log-in attempt.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such emails usually contain a harmful link that lets hackers gain access to your data. In this <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FTC\u2019s article<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you\u2019ll find a phishing email example that aims to extort payment details from Netflix users.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>To recognize a phishing email, always check the sender\u2019s name, email address, and domain<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (e.g., @<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hotmail.com<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Do it right when you see an email in your inbox. Then, be alert to the signs described below \u2013 we can detect many scams ourselves. However, <\/span><b>you can also rely on email security solutions integrated into your inbox<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you recognize phishing emails? Watch out for these features:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">different email domain, e.g., gmail.com instead of the company domain,<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">different email domain that looks very similar to the right one, e.g., with <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">0 <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">instead of <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">O<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rn<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> instead of <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">m.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a generic greeting instead of your name,<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">urgent call to action, prompting you to do something <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immediately<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">now<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">misspellings or bad grammar,<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">suspicious and unknown links or attachments,<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you end up clicking the link in an email, stay on the lookout for phishing signs on the website \u2013 always check if the URL is correct.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Regular backups \u2013 keep your files and data safe<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cybersecurity means eliminating the risk of losing your files \u2013 because of malware, losing your device, or a computer failure. It\u2019s one of the most common cybersecurity threats. So, the next position on our list of security tips for freelancers is to back up your files regularly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a rule of thumb, you should follow the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/knowadays.com\/blog\/7-cybersecurity-tips-for-freelancers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3-2-1 backup method<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">have at least <\/span><b>3 copies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of an important document;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">store them in <\/span><b>2 locations <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">on your device or a cloud;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">keep and update at least <\/span><b>1 external backup copy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can keep your backup on a device, e.g., a portable hard drive or encrypted cloud. Consider setting up an automatic cloud backup to securely store every file in the backup location.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take cybersecurity risks seriously \u2013 don\u2019t just do a backup, but check if the backup actually works. <\/span><b>Make sure you can access your files whenever you need them<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Proven cybersecurity tips for freelancers \u2013 data encryption<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Imagine you could log in to a file like you log in to Facebook or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/freelance-email-templates\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">email<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 with a password.<\/span><b> Adding a password to protect your files from unauthorized access<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is called data encryption.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">File encryption comes in handy in case your device gets stolen or used by others with your permission. If a file contains sensitive information, e.g., about your clients, finances, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/jobs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">projects<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, data encryption will make it safer even if someone else accesses your computer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>If your encrypted files have backups, be sure to protect them with a password as well<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It\u2019ll be helpful in case your device breaks and you lose your folders.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here, you can find instructions for encrypting files in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/learning-center\/how-to-encrypt-file\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Windows 11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/how-to-encrypt-a-file-1131805c-47b8-2e3e-a705-807e13c10da7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Windows 10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.apple.com\/en-eg\/guide\/mac-help\/mh40593\/mac\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">macOS<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It\u2019s quick and easy!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data encryption doesn\u2019t refer only to files. You can encrypt far more sources of sensitive information, such as your cloud storage, emails, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsoftwares.net\/blog\/guide-to-encrypting-your-browsing-data\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">online activities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><b>To prevent spying on your internet usage, encrypt your wireless network <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">using WPA2 or WPA3. Check this instruction on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/how-secure-your-home-wi-fi-network\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how to secure your home Wi-Fi network<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Secure file transfer \u2013 a must-have for remote work<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When sharing important or confidential files with clients or remote workers, use <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/secure-payment\/employer-choose\/?boxid=82bd0986-9a82-4f9b-971b-b8439871c68d\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">secure file transfer tools<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with advanced encryption and access control. <\/span><b>Such tools go beyond the security measures of regular email attachments, protecting the data<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The key features to look for in file transfer tools are password protection, file tracking, link expiration, and end-to-end encryption, which scrambles data throughout transfer so it&#8217;s inaccessible even to the service provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Inform clients about your security measures and how they can securely share files with you<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Credit report check \u2013 track your financial information<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks to periodic checks on your credit report and credit score, you\u2019ll have control over any possible credit fraud. Your bank details can be subject to data and identity theft and consequently used to steal money. To investigate your credit report, <\/span><b>check what institution stores and share credit information in your country<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Ongoing education \u2013 cybersecurity training never ends<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A common cybersecurity myth is that the main cybersecurity threats are well-known. Unfortunately, as with other IT-related areas, the infamous ones are also expanding. Cybercrime is increasingly sophisticated and harder to prevent.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Stay updated with the news about cyber threats and measures to avoid them<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Consider attending a cybersecurity awareness course, workshop, or other form of training. There are specialists who can help you become more aware of risks related to remote freelancing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As your freelance business evolves and your project changes, new threats and vulnerabilities may arise. <\/span><b>Update your cybersecurity strategy to current conditions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Protect your work: select a freelance service committed to cybersecurity<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Freelance cybersecurity can be user-friendly if you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/everything-freelancers-need-to-know-about-invoices\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">invoice your clients<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> via Useme. Our security measures apply to every step of your transaction:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You<\/span><b> upload and share your files via secure file transfer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We keep them protected until your client pays the deposit request.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your <\/span><b>clients pay through a safe payment gateway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, letting us safeguard the payment until we get your working files.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We store your and your client\u2019s data, complying with the law and our internal <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/help.useme.eu\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/10907008784924-Privacy-policy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">privacy policy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><b>Useme protects your personal data, files, and banking details<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> using best-in-class cybersecurity solutions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Useme is your trustworthy <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">freelance toolkit<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We protect your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/cash-flow-management-for-freelancers\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">financial well-being<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> not only by safeguarding your sensitive data but also by eliminating late payments. If you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/fast\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">invoice your client<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> via Useme, you\u2019ll get paid right after your client pays a deposit request.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"hs-cta-embed hs-cta-simple-placeholder hs-cta-embed-96756032701\" style=\"max-width: 100%; max-height: 100%; width: 2112px; height: 312.5px;\" data-hubspot-wrapper-cta-id=\"96756032701\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cta-eu1.hubspot.com\/web-interactives\/public\/v1\/track\/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKVXu1ZAkTjc1ocUK%2FlvB%2BK%2FJex%2FJ52P2cNQ05TLhAsqANK8mHqquHeTuzqKlTejxtoTH7euH7GE70zVbBfyoMtgwVVcuRfG8so8OMNjw%2Fz2GfJ%2FcgeLPu%2B0jOUVstQ%2F8exvZ%2FEZUPNb0k%2Bxae5wR2C9NF9yR1alIYLmbiRQBvFu3evuPm%2FloPxROXXRwGl71l6S2P9cdZY4wF40dC3I0wcGerI1UL6nS8QWV3V4WKyWsJp6QNCBL8H5W0bHa4T2Ho%3D&amp;webInteractiveContentId=96756032701&amp;portalId=27198211\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"height: 100%; width: 100%; object-fit: fill;\" src=\"https:\/\/hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/cta\/default\/27198211\/interactive-96756032701.png\" alt=\"cybersecurity tips for freelancers\" \/><br \/>\n<\/a><\/div>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advanced_cybersecurity_tips_for_freelancers\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advanced cybersecurity tips for freelancers<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even if you\u2019ve already implemented all the precautions mentioned above, there\u2019s a space for improvement \u2013 you\u2019re right. You can\u2019t be too careful. So, if you really want to be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/secure-transactions-file-transfer-and-escrow-service-4-980x551.jpg.webp\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cybersecurity savvy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, check these:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Universal 2nd Factor<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The U2F security key will protect your online account even if your password becomes compromised. <\/span><b>It\u2019s an element of two-factor authentication, regarded as one of the most secure cybersecurity practices<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Universal 2nd Factor is a physical device similar to a USB thumb drive. Here\u2019s how it works:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You buy a U2F key and register it with the website or app you want to secure with two-factor authentication. Important note: always buy new and original U2F keys from verified sources.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Once you enter your login and password, the website or app will prompt you to plug in your U2F key to authorize the access<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To be always on the safe side, buy two security keys and keep one at home in case you lose your portable one. You can also use security keys on iPhones \u2013 find more information from Apple <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.apple.com\/en-us\/HT213154\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Faraday laptop sleeve<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Faraday cage technology blocks electromagnetic fields. It\u2019s used in Faraday laptop sleeves, bags, briefcases, and backpacks designed to enhance the privacy and security of computer data. <\/span><b>Faraday technology protects the information on your device from external signals and networks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Faraday cages block signals from mobile phones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, EMF, EMP, RFID, NFC, and sat-nav. A Faraday pouch is also used to protect your car from being stolen. Thieves won\u2019t be able to open your car by picking up the signal of your keyless entry system.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Privacy filters for laptops<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Privacy filters offer a simple and effective solution to shield your data. They\u2019re thin sheets of plastic that adhere to your laptop screen and significantly narrow the viewing angle of your screen. As someone tries to view your screen from an angle, the filters block most of the light. <\/span><b>To a side viewer, your screen appears darkened or even completely black, obscuring sensitive information<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a result, you can use your laptop on a train or in a caf\u00e9 without the risk of other people seeing what you\u2019re doing. Besides, a lot of us just don\u2019t like writing, designing, or coding \u201con display.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cybersecurity_practices_for_freelancers_%E2%80%93_where_to_start\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cybersecurity practices for freelancers \u2013 where to start?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re feeling a bit green about cybersecurity, don\u2019t worry \u2013 take one step at a time. Start with what you know. You certainly have accounts on multiple websites and apps. Check if you use unique and strong passwords and save them in a chosen password manager.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then, make sure you store all your files in two backup copies. If not \u2013 create one on an internal hard drive and one on an online cloud. Encrypt both locations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now, you can dive into researching. Look for recommendations about antivirus software and a VPN. Your cybersecurity is your responsibility \u2013 don\u2019t be a sitting duck!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From password manager to Faraday laptop sleeves \u2013 the best cybersecurity tips for freelancers listed in one article! Be on the save safe and protect your files, finances, and devices. We&#8217;ll tell you how.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":27,"featured_media":3899,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[46,54,63,66,97],"class_list":["post-3898","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-for-freelancers","tag-freelance-tools","tag-freelance-tips","tag-transactions","tag-security","tag-financial"],"modified_by":"Marta","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3898","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/27"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3898"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3898\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4345,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3898\/revisions\/4345"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3899"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3898"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3898"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/useme.com\/en\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3898"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}