Best Security Tips all Freelancers Ought to Know

Every day, online fraudsters devise various means of hacking and extorting important data from both freelancers and other online gurus.

Nowadays, they do that without being under the pump. All they need to do is, cause you to take actions that will give them access to your data without you even knowing.

This is why freelancers need to be conscious and alert all the time. So, as a freelancer, observing precautionary measures to ensure that your computer or gadget is well protected from online hoodlums should be your utmost priority.

In this article, we’ll explore the 11 best security tips all freelancers ought to know. In case you are not a freelancer yet and you want to become one, you can learn How to Move From Full-Time to Freelancing work.

Carefully read!

Best Security Tips you need as a Freelancer

Here are the 11 best security tips you need as a freelancer:

#1. Often Change your Passwords

As a freelancer, one of the security tips you must learn is how to often change your passwords. The truth is, changing your passwords from time to time makes it harder for any third party to break in.

This works better when your passwords are difficult to guess. You can use upper- and lower-case letters, symbols and numbers. Note: don’t use your full name, birthday, or nickname as passwords because someone who knows you can easily guess it right.

#2. Update Your Softwares

This is another security tip every freelancer must employ to avoid falling victim to fraud. According to CNN, cybercriminals rely on computer bugs that have been around 90 percent of the time since 2002 in un-updated applications.

Keeping your operating system and other applications up-to-date will make it more difficult for hackers to access your information.

#3. Get virus security tools

Ensure you get virus-security tools. These tools will help detect viruses and some malicious softwares that were installed on your computer when you visited illegitimate websites or opened infected email attachments that access your personal and financial information, ransomware, etc.

Read also: 7 Ways Hiring a Freelance Writer Can Save Your Business Money

#4. Just accept encrypted payments.

If you accept payments for your work online, select a reliable and safe service, such as PayPal.
Remember, you’re a corporation as a freelancer.

You may not have all the same resources as a big corporation, but you can take the required measures to keep your data and reputation secure from hackers, that will save you time and money in the long run.

#5. Use a Dedicated Email Address

It is not advisable to use your personal email for your freelancing account. It’s wiser to open another email account that will be dedicated to just your freelance work only.

That way, your personal account won’t be compromised if a scammer or hacker is targeting your freelance account.

Moreso, it will also keep you organized, as all of your work-related emails will be in an account that is separate from your personal account.

#6. Know What Information to Share

The thought of sharing your personal information with your employer doesn’t seem too strange, does it?

Well, when you’re working online doing freelance work, it can be a security risk. It’s likely that you can’t confirm the actual identity of the person you’re working for, and it’s rare that you would have their address (not to mention that anyone online can give you false information).

Never share your banking details, passwords, or social security number, and if you can avoid it, try to keep your address to yourself as well.

Employers really shouldn’t require too much information from you, especially if the job is temporary.

#7. Don’t Install any Software

Sometimes fraudsters come to you as clients, expecting you to download some kind of software or official remote access app. Once you download or install such software, they’ll have access to your computer or smartphone.

So, to be on safe side, don’t install any software unless it’s from official sources or a website.

Read Also: 5 Tips to Hire a Freelance Grant Writer in 2024

#8. Avoid any ex.e Files

Don’t open any executable or ex.e file. And in a situation where you must open, check the file with antivirus engine to ensure that it’s protected.

#9. Avoid Enabling Macros on any Microsoft package

Do not enable macros in Microsoft Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, and so on. Macros are basically executables hidden in files, and malefactors love to fool people by sending seemingly innocent documents that actually contain malware, just like in the case described above.

#10. Don’t Disclose your Credit Card details in any Freelancing Platform

Normally, if you are writing on any platform like Writersgig, Fiverr, or Upwork, you will be expected to input your bank details.

Avoid sending a screenshot of your credit card, the expiration date of your card, or CVC/CVV code. No legit writing platform will demand any of the information before they can pay you. They can only ask for your account number and nothing else.

#11. Avoid Opening All Links

Do not open links or emails that look suspicious. Hover over the links to make sure it match the link to the address.

Best Security Tips for Freelancers to Protect their Device

• Protect your device
• Use updated antivirus software
• Encrypt your sensitive data
• Secure physical access to your devices with passwords and pins

Financial Security Tips for Freelancers

• Use secure payment platforms
• Avoid sharing your financial information over unsecured channels
• Check the SSL encryption on websites

Why freelancers need to know security tips

Cyber vulnerability

Freelancers usually use digital platforms and contact channels to work with clients. Phishing scams, malware attacks, and data breaches can happen to them because they are online.

Freelancers are more likely to be attacked by hackers because they don’t have as many security measures in place as bigger companies with IT departments.

Protecting Sensitive Data

Payment information, customer information, and information about secret projects are some examples of sensitive data that freelancers often work with. Any loss or theft of this information can have serious effects, such as financial loss, damage to the company’s image, and legal obligations.

So, freelancers need to make data protection a top priority by using safe tools and methods.

As a freelancer, you need to employ these services: 20 Chrome Extensions For Content Writers That Works.

Taking care of your professional reputation

A freelancer’s name is very important for getting new clients and jobs. A security breach that leaves data open or deletes it can tarnish their credibility and image. People who hire freelancers are expected to keep their information safe and protect their privacy.

By implementing effective security measures, freelancers can build credibility with their customers while also demonstrating expertise.

Business Continuity and Reliability

Security mistakes can disrupt freelancers’ operations, resulting in downtime, income loss, and client displeasure. By taking proactive steps to adopt security tips, freelancers can limit the likelihood of interruptions and ensure business continuity.

The capacity to complete projects safely and on time is important for long-term profitability and client satisfaction.

FAQS on Security Tips for Freelancers

Bottom Line

If you follow all of the tips mentioned in this article, you shouldn’t have any issues with security breaches any time soon.