You will agree with me that in 2026, our lives are more digitally disrupted today than 10-15 years ago.
Unfortunately, this disruption shows no end in sight and comes with the ever-present threat of cybersecurity breach .
The big elephant in the room remains the question: how do you stay safe while conducting your online business? I have observed that most Nigerians (sadly so) do not understand that online safety is simply a function of intentionally building safety habits/mindsets that will eventually become a second nature to them.
Here’s Your Simple Guide on How to Start
1. Your Passwords Are Like Your House Keys
You wouldn’t use one key for your house, car, and office, right? So, why use the same password for your email, bank accounts, pension funds and social media pages?
a) Repent now before it's too late (lol): Use a different strong password for every important account (email, banking, WhatsApp, etc).
b) Make it strong: Combine a simple phrase you will easily remember. For example, Lagos@ToAbuja294 is better than your child’s/spouse's name or your date of birth.
c) Use a Password Manager: This is like a digital key holder. Try Google Password Manager; it can help you remember all your passwords.
2. It’s Better to Err on The Side of Caution
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This is your extra padlock. Even if someone gets access to your password, they can’t get into your accounts.
a) Do this: Always turn on the Two-Factor Authentication option in your email, social media (Facebook, Instagram), and banking apps.
b) How it works: After entering your password, the 2FA app will send a special one-time code to your phone. No one else can get that code except you.
3. Spotting Scammers & Fake Links (Phishing)
Scammers online are like those fake texts saying “You have won N500,000! Click here.” NEVER click on links in strange texts, WhatsApp messages, or emails. Even if it looks like it’s from your bank.
a) Check properly: Instead of clicking, go directly to the bank’s website by typing it yourself or using their official app. If there’s a real issue, they’ll have a message for you inside your app.
Here is an illustration, if a random Okada rider gives you a parcel for your boss, you wouldn’t just take it. Don’t accept "digital parcels" from strangers either.
4. Guard Your Personal Info Like Family Secrets
The fewer strangers who know about your life online, the better. But I can’t help you if you are an Instagram Baddie because “show off” na your second name be that.
a) On Social Media: Avoid posting your BVN, passport, driver’s license, or even flight tickets publicly. Check your privacy settings, and only let your friends see your posts.
b) On Calls: If someone calls you claiming to be from your bank and asks for your PIN or OTP, hang up. It’s a lie.
5. Keep Your Phone & Apps Updated
Those “Update available” messages are like fixing a hole in your fence.
Update your phone’s software and your apps (especially WhatsApp, banking apps) as soon as you can. These updates often fix security holes that thieves use.
6. Backup Your Precious Stuff
Imagine your phone gets stolen with all your family photos and other important documents.
Use Google Drive or iCloud to automatically back up your pictures.
It’s like making a copy of your important documents and keeping them in a different place.
Final Word
You don’t need to be a tech guru. Just be cautious, like you naturally are in everyday life. Start with one safety habit at a time. You’ve got this! Stay safe online!