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5 Ways to Protect Yourself from IP Address Hacking

Hacking is a risk everyone exposes themselves to the moment they start using the internet. 

They work very hard to compromise the online identity of different internet users, whether companies and top brands or individuals. Basically, any efforts you can put forth to better your security system and safeguard your information is worth the investment. Since you cannot shy off from using the internet, start by protecting yourself from IP address hacking, which could not only slow down your internet speeds but mainly cause you a significant data loss. Here are the top five ways you can bank on to protect yourself from IP address hacking:

Change your privacy settings

Instant-messaging applications like Skype and Messenger are the number one route that hackers capitalize on to pry on internet users. Not only that, any app you use by connecting to the internet creates a security loophole for hackers to breach your security. When you change your network settings to ‘private,’ using private proxies at instantproxies.com, you make it a lot harder for hackers to get through your IP address. Usually, the private setting deters hackers from successfully accessing your servers through the instant-messaging apps to get to your network and breach your security. 

Using a dynamic IP address

Figure 1 https://www.iplocation.net/static-vs-dynamic-ip-address

A static IP address can incur security risks for your network because hackers have all day to crack through your firewall. A static address is a constant target that hackers can capitalize on and get through to your information. However, a dynamic IP address goes a long way in minimizing the predictability of your IP, given that it changes regularly. Even so, the debate continues over whether static IP addresses are unsafe, because a lot of people rely on static IP address, ranging from website owners to gamers. 

Using Virtual Private Network (VPN)

 

Figure 2 https://thebestvpn.com/hide-ip/

 

Using a VPN is a great way to get ahead of hackers by hiding the IP address for your network. When the address is invisible, the gateway for hackers to get through to your network servers is closed off. Besides, VPN is a great security measure for people that rely on the public network to access the internet. It is the VPN that protects your data from access by malicious people in public. In the end, data breaches are reduced because transmission of content is limited, and not only that, the VPN curtails eavesdropping of information. While at it, consider paid VPN instead of free ones online, because of their efficiency in data protection.

Updating your firewall and router

 

Figure 3 http://blog.antivirussupporthelpdesk.com/2018/12/10/how-to-fix-windows-10-firewall-services-not-working-webroot-antivirus/

 

Every company is aware of the crucial role that a well-established firewall plays ion safeguarding the online activities thereof. That said, passwords and encryption keys that business owners determine must be robust and string to keep off hackers. In that sense, the passwords used for routers should not only be keenly determined but more importantly, made complex. In fact, it matters that you change the passwords for your router regularly instead of using default codes that one can quickly figure out. 

Besides, the settings of your firewall can compromise your security by entertaining unauthorized users within your servers and allowing pinging from hackers. With a well-established firewall, you should be able to trace any spoofing and phishing activities within your network.

Update your antivirus and anti-malware software

Virus and malware are the leading causes of data breaches for companies and individuals. Hackers use suspicious links to send worms to devices and compromise their security. To protect your IP address, there is a need to keep your antivirus and anti-malware in check. This way, you are mindful of any possible threats and malicious activities that could sabotage your network.