Features

7 Ways To Protect Your Digital Life

Published

7 years ago

September 23, 2017

It feels like every day we wake up to the launch of new smartphones, laptops or “smart” gadgets that connect us to the Internet. The use of such items has become so common that even kids know how to handle an iPad but not everyone is aware that all the data they hold digitally can be accessed.

Try and recall the number of public figures who’ve had their information – be it photos or videos – leaked in the last ten years. As a matter of fact, it has become so easy to leak personal information in the 21^st century that the FBI Director had to cover the webcam of his personal laptop using a tape stating that it was the most crucial security step that everyone should adopt. And he is not the only one. Facebook’s founder, Mark Zuckerberg, fears for the same.

Moreover, how many times do we use laptops at work, home or cyber cafes and forget to log out of our most crucial applications because we were in a rush? Or share passwords with friends and colleagues who never log us out? In fact, when Cisco conducted a research to understand how employees put their company’s data at risk, it was discovered that 18 percent of employees share their passwords. The research was done on 2000 correspondents with half being IT professionals and the other half regular employees in ten countries. Such revelation shows that most of our digital life is consumed on office devices and personal laptops.

So, what can we do to protect our digital lives from attackers who try to access our information without our authorization?

Use Secure Passwords

Gone are the days when your child’s name or pet’s name would be used to create passwords for your email, social media or any other device you need to log into.

Most of the applications we access require us to have passwords. Having a secure password is the first step that you can take in ensuring that your data is secure. Email passwords are the weakest.

Ensure your password comprises of twelve or more characters. Make use of letters, numbers and special characters and ensure that you change your password every so often. 90 or 180 days is ideal. Also, storing your password on your computer or printing them out is never a safe idea. Instead, you can use password managers such as LastPass, KeePass or 1Password for increased security.

Encryption is your Friend

Signal You will have likely started a chat on WhatsApp and seen the message saying, ‘messages to this chat and calls are now secured with end-to-end encryption.’ However, WhatsApp’s encryption technology is far from impenetrable and the fact that it is owned by Facebook, which regularly shares your personal information with third-parties for marketing purposes does not bestow a lot of faith into the privacy of this messaging app.

Instead, you should consider using Signal. Signal is the most secure app for encrypting chats, text messages, and call. Signal can also be used on both Android and iPhones and is the encrypted messaging app that Edward Snowden recommends.

If your data is encrypted and attackers gain access to it, they won’t be able to understand anything without getting a key. Your data thus stays safe and secure when using Signal.

Be on the look for keyloggers

If your device is compromised, no amount of encryption will save you. Malware used by keyloggers are one of the biggest threats to your digital life.

According to Cybersecurity firm McAfee: “A keylogger (short for keystroke logger) is software that tracks or logs the keys struck on your keyboard, typically in a covert manner so that you don’t know that your actions are being monitored. This is usually done with malicious intent to collect your account information, credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and other private data.”

It’s therefore important to run regular anti-virus updates to ensure that all malware viruses and attack attempts are thwarted. This means that your anti-virus needs to be up to date to perform to its maximum and guarantee you the protection needed.

Unfamiliar links, files, and websites

Every day, we receive multiple email messages and links shared through Messenger or WhatsApp. Some of these links pose a great threat to your device.

In June 2017, there was a global ransomware attack that hit 64 countries affecting hundreds of businesses. The malware was sent in form of files and when downloaded ended up encrypting the data in laptops. Many machines were affected and they required owners to purchase a key to get back their data. British advertising company WPP and pharmaceutical company Merck were some of the companies hit by the malware.

As such, it is important not to download any files or use websites or links that you are unfamiliar with. Ensure that you regularly update your operating software and install an anti-virus software, especially if you are using Windows.

Back up your data

Although encrypting your information is a good move, it is not enough. Hackers are always devising malware that can unencrypt almost everything. Data breaches can, therefore, be quite costly.

In addition to encrypting your data, ensure that you back up your data either to an external hard drive or on the cloud. In the event that you lose it or something happens to it, you will be able to recover your data without a sweat. Moreover, some online backup services like CrashPlan, not only back up your data but also encrypt it.

Besides helping protect your documents, data, and photos from technical malfunctions, backups also help you get back on your feet if you fall victim to a ransomware attack or data loss of any other kind.

Two-factor authentication for email accounts

Using two-factor authentication for your email helps give a second layer of protection to your emails. This means that if anyone tries accessing your email accounts from any new device they will need to undergo a second security step: a code that is sent as a text message to your phone.

Two-factor authentication can also be used for other social media accounts. However, your email is the most important one as most apps or payment sites use your email for password recovery. Hackers can easily retrieve this information if they get access to your email account.

Use HTTPs browser plug-in

Ever noticed that when browsing through various sites, some have the https and others don’t? You might think that it’s not important but it definitely is.

Developed by the Electronic Frontier Organization, the https plug-in ensures that you are using websites in a secure way. This means that your connection to various sites is encrypted and you are more protected from cyber attackers.

It is also important to ensure that the Wi-Fi network you are on is secured. Most public networks and private networks lack security keys which help protect users. Hence, using a VPN surfing in a public network is also strongly recommended.

Why Protecting Your Digital Life Matters

It is no secret that intelligence agencies such as the NSA or the GCHQ collect data on a global scale. We have learned that from the Edward Snowden leaks in 2013. In other words, any data you put online can be viewed by someone else who may or may not have mal-intentions. While governments’ mass surveillance programs are claimed exist to fight terrorism, they have really been created to spy on anyone and everyone to gain a political and/or economic advantage for their governments if possible.

Now, if you feel like you are “too small” to matter and there would be no point going through your personal data then you should still strongly consider protecting yourself online as the Internet is full of hackers who have mal-intentions. Cybercriminals may steal your personal information to sell it on the dark web for a profit or to use it to extract money from your bank or PayPal accounts.

If you are a holder of cryptocurrency, such as bitcoin, then you definitely need to protect your digital life as there is a chance that hackers may target you to steal your bitcoins. This, unfortunately, is much more common than people think and is why we feel it is important to highlight cybersecurity measures to our readers.

Features

Why Crypto’s Leading the Way in Africa’s Evolving Finance Landscape

Published

9 months ago

July 24, 2023

Guest Contributor

Cryptocurrency adoption is on the rise throughout Africa. According to Chainalysis, the African crypto market is one of the fastest growing in the world, with an estimated $20 billion worth of transactions taking place per month. Meanwhile Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa are positioned in bitcoin.com top 10 global countries by Cryptocurrency Adoption.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the appeal of decentralised currencies in Africa and discuss how they’re leading the way in the continent’s ever-evolving finance landscape.

The Global Crypto Era

For several years now, cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology have been having a transformative effect on various industries and markets across the globe. From the disruption of the gaming industry via the emergence of play-to-earn gaming and online casino with crypto deposit platforms to smart contracts that are being used everywhere, from healthcare to real estate, the impact is evident.

With the rise of the DeFi and GameFi sectors, it’s clear that the global crypto era is now in full swing, and it’s an industry that’s gaining noticeable traction across Africa. Approximately 1.2 million Africans now actively trade cryptocurrencies, with Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa leading the way. Decentralised crypto trading platforms like Paxful and LocalBitcoins bypass financial institutions and present new opportunities for residents to buy and sell crypto tokens.

In terms of which crypto tokens are leading the way in Africa, Bitcoin (BTC) holds the position of the most dominant digital currency, with a substantial user base and trading volume. BTC is accepted and used for various purposes, including remittances and as a store of value.

Altcoins, too, are becoming more widespread in the continent, particularly Ether (ETH) and Binance Coin (BNB). Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities have fuelled its growth in the region, providing a solution to developers for building DApps (decentralised applications) that address Africa-specific challenges.

Additionally, several homegrown cryptocurrencies have emerged in recent years that are tailored to the local needs of the region. The Akoin token (AKN), for example, was founded by musical artist and humanitarian Akon as a means of powering a digital financial ecosystem in those regions with limited access to traditional banking services.

The Appeal of Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies offer several unique advantages, which, coupled with the economic stagnation still present in the continent, makes them particularly appealing to Africans.

One of the key drivers behind the burgeoning popularity of crypto in Africa is the lack of access to traditional financial services that many Africans still face. Many residents stay either unbanked or underbanked, excluding them from taking part in the global economy.

Decentralised currencies are gaining increased acceptance among the financially marginalised, particularly the low-income population, who have often been excluded from the banking system or had to face disproportionally high transaction costs. By their very nature, cryptocurrencies remove the need for traditional intermediaries, instead offering a borderless alternative that enables individuals to send and receive secure financial transactions instantly.

Currencies in countries such as Kenya and Nigeria have been damaged by decades of inflation, contributing to a surge in both economic and political instability. Cryptos hold the power to remedy financial exclusion and present an alternative to weak domestic currencies.

Unlike the more established traditional banking options in Africa, decentralised finance enables anyone with an internet connection and compatible device — smartphones included — to engage in a variety of financial transactions, from sending remittances to making investments. Crypto investing allows Africans to purchase and hold assets that will not be impacted by financial turbulence, such as rapid depreciation and ever-increasing inflation.

As mentioned above, cryptocurrencies are typically cheaper, easier to use and faster than conventional methods. The blockchain technology that eases peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions exists outside established fiat currency institutions, supplying a far more accessible and user-friendly solution.

Traditional remittance services are often slow, expensive and largely inaccessible to a significant portion of the African population. Digital currencies allow for frictionless cross-border transactions, meaning that individuals can send and receive money globally in a matter of minutes. Not only does this benefit individual consumers, but it also empowers African businesses and entrepreneurs, easing economic growth in the process.

A Lasting Impact

Given that Africa’s crypto ecosystem is still in an evolutionary stage, the popularity of decentralised currencies and blockchain applications will vary between countries and regions. Regulatory environments, infrastructure development and specific social-economic conditions can all influence the popularity and success of a crypto project. However, there’s no denying that the emergence of this industry has sparked a wave of innovation throughout many African countries.

Several blockchain-based startups have found innovative ways to leverage the potential of the technology to address the most prevalent socio-economic challenges. BitPesa is transforming the cross-border payments sector, while other startups have used blockchain tech to make supply chain management more transparent and even improve voting processes. By leapfrogging traditional infrastructures, decentralised currencies and technologies are proving to be the key to sustainable, long-term economic growth in Africa.

Features

The Rise of Bitcoin in the Online Gaming World

Published

9 months ago

July 24, 2023

Guest Contributor

Cryptocurrencies have disrupted traditional financial systems in recent years, and Bitcoin profiled itself as the most famous crypto. It has already found its way to e-commerce and investment, but this crypto is also present in the world of online gaming. In this article, we will explore the growing influence of Bitcoin in the online gaming world.

Bitcoin and Online Casinos

Thanks to Bitcoin’s integration into online casinos, players and operators now have a vast range of possibilities. With the use of Bitcoin, online casinos create another level of advantage over traditional payment options. Most of all, if you perform transactions in Bitcoin, they will be quicker and more efficient.

You can deposit or withdraw the funds within seconds without the need for complex verification processes or intermediaries. This makes the gaming experience smoother and more seamless for any player. Additionally, Bitcoin offers a higher level of privacy and security. We have already experienced how much financial and personal information traditional payment methods require.

Nevertheless, unlike them, Bitcoin transactions are pseudonymous, which means they provide players with greater anonymity. This privacy feature particularly appeals to those who value their online security and wish to enjoy online gaming without revealing their identities. Integrating Bitcoin into online casinos has also resulted in innovative bonus structures and rewards.

Some Bitcoin casinos offer exclusive promotions and bonuses for players who use Bitcoin as their preferred payment method. The best Bitcoin casinos in the Philippines are safe to deposit at, according to this guide, and you can choose the one that appeals to you the most. That’s why more and more players turn to Bitcoin as their payment method, fostering its further adoption in the gaming industry.

Since Bitcoin is decentralized, transactions bypass the regular censorship and control that we can see involved with traditional payment methods. Thanks to this, players from regions with strict gambling regulations can participate in online gaming with fewer restrictions. Bitcoin-powered online casinos do not impose geographical limitations, opening their services to players worldwide.

Bitcoin and Esports Betting

Beyond online casinos, Bitcoin has made significant breakthroughs in esports betting. We could witness a skyrocketing rise of esports in recent years, which resulted in millions of enthusiasts and viewers worldwide. Thanks to Bitcoin’s integration into esports, players have a wider range of options to engage with their favorite games and gamers.

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has witnessed a meteoric rise in popularity, attracting millions of viewers and enthusiasts worldwide. Bitcoin’s integration into esports betting platforms has revolutionized how fans engage with their favorite games and players.

Bitcoin’s advantages, such as fast and secure transactions, align perfectly with the dynamic nature of esports betting. Users can easily deposit and withdraw funds, allowing for quick reactions to changing odds or game outcomes. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature also ensures that bettors from any location can participate, overcoming the obstacles of regional restrictions and currency exchange complications.

Moreover, Bitcoin’s integration into esports betting platforms has provided players with increased transparency and fairness. The technology behind Bitcoin, blockchain, allows for unalterable and auditable records of transactions, ensuring that betting outcomes are tamper-proof.

This transparency has fostered greater trust among players, operators, and regulators, further fueling the growth of Bitcoin-powered esports betting.

Bitcoin and In-Game Purchases

As the gaming industry evolves, it has also opened innovative ways for gamers to enhance their gaming experience. With the involvement of Bitcoin, players can use it for in-game purchases. Nowadays, many popular online games support cryptocurrencies for item purchases, upgrades, or other enhancements.

Since crypto transactions are more seamless, Bitcoin has become a better alternative compared to traditional in-game payment methods. Game developers have also benefited from introducing Bitcoin as a payment option. Now they can offer a more convenient way of purchasing in-game items, transaction fees are lower, and processing times have become faster.

Moreover, you, as a player, don’t need to disclose any sensitive information anymore. That way, Bitcoin usage in gaming reduces the risk of potential data breaches. The adoption of Bitcoin in in-game purchases has also opened up new possibilities for cross-platform transactions.

As Bitcoin operates globally, players can easily trade or transfer in-game assets across different games or platforms, fostering a vibrant secondary market for virtual goods. This flexibility enhances player engagement and allows for a more interconnected gaming experience.

The integration of Bitcoin into in-game purchases has also paved the way for blockchain-based gaming ecosystems. Some game developers have embraced blockchain technology to create decentralized gaming platforms where players truly own their in-game assets through blockchain-based tokens. This ownership empowers players and introduces concepts of shortage and value to virtual items.

Bitcoin in Online Gaming

Benefits of Using Bitcoin in Online Gaming

Players can enjoy multiple benefits from using Bitcoin in online gaming. The most obvious one is that traditional payment methods cannot match the level of Bitcoin’s security and anonymity. Due to cryptos’ decentralized nature, you don’t need to disclose your sensitive data. If you want to get started in the gaming world easily and quickly, there’s no more attractive option than Bitcoin.

Transactions are completed within seconds, and they are cheaper in terms of fees compared to other popular methods. Since Bitcoin has become more popular in the online gaming industry, gaming platforms recognized its benefits.

Therefore, they introduced it as a payment method, and nowadays, the world’s most popular online gaming platforms accept Bitcoin, including Steam, Xbox Live, and PlayStation Network.

Security Considerations When Using Bitcoin in Gaming

While Bitcoin offers many benefits for online gaming, such as fast and secure transactions, there are also some security considerations to keep in mind. Performing online financial transactions always brings a high risk of potential hacking and theft of Bitcoin wallets. That’s why you should use a secure and reputable digital wallet and keep your private keys safe and inaccessible to unauthorized persons.

Also, online gaming platforms that you use should have strong security features established to keep your financial and personal information away from the eyes of unauthorized third parties.

Conclusion

Bitcoin’s rise in online gaming has brought many benefits for all entities in this growing industry. From online casinos to esports betting and in-game purchases, Bitcoin’s unique characteristics have reshaped the gaming landscape, offering increased speed, privacy, security, and global accessibility. It shouldn’t take too long before cryptocurrencies gain mainstream acceptance since they are continuously evolving.

That’s why we believe the Bitcoin integration in the online gaming industry will continue. Ultimately, it should unlock new ways of innovation and interaction for gaming fans worldwide, leading to limitless possibilities for the future of online gaming.

Features

Unlock the Thrills of NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming

Published

9 months ago

July 15, 2023

Guest Contributor

Are you a passionate NHL fan who craves excitement both on and off the ice? Look no further! NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming bring a revolutionary experience to your fingertips. Witness the fusion of cutting-edge technology, crypto-powered wagers, and seamless live streaming that will take your NHL engagement to new heights.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of NHL Crypto Betting, explore the latest trends in NHL betting, and uncover the exhilaration of live streaming. Brace yourself for an unparalleled journey that combines heart-pounding action, lucrative opportunities, and the thrill of cheering for your favorite teams in real-time.

The Evolution of NHL Crypto Betting

With the rise of blockchain technology, NHL Crypto Betting has emerged as a game-changer in the sports betting landscape. Powered by cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, NHL Crypto Betting offers a secure, transparent, and decentralized platform for enthusiasts to engage with their favorite teams.

By leveraging blockchain’s immutability and smart contract capabilities, NHL Crypto Betting ensures fair and tamper-proof transactions, providing users with a sense of trust and integrity.

Moreover, NHL Crypto Betting introduces a new dimension to the traditional sports betting experience. Cryptocurrencies enable users to make instant deposits and withdrawals, eliminating the hassles associated with fiat currencies. This streamlined process enhances convenience and accessibility for bettors, empowering them to place wagers quickly and effortlessly.

Unleashing the Power of NHL Trends Betting

Keeping up with NHL trends is essential for successful betting. NHL Trends Betting allows users to analyze historical data, team performance, player statistics, and other crucial factors to make informed betting decisions. By identifying patterns, tendencies, and emerging trends, bettors can gain a competitive edge and increase their chances of winning.

Whether you’re an experienced bettor or new to the world of NHL betting, understanding and leveraging NHL trends is paramount. Stay ahead of the game by monitoring team form, home and away records, head-to-head matchups, injury reports, and other key indicators. NHL trends betting offers a strategic approach to maximize your chances of success and unlock profitable opportunities.

Immersive Live Streaming: Amplifying the NHL Experience

Live streaming has transformed the way sports fans engage with their favorite leagues, and the NHL is no exception. Experience the thrill of NHL games in real-time, no matter where you are, with seamless live streaming. Witness jaw-dropping goals, clutch saves, and heart-stopping moments as they happen, all from the comfort of your own device.

Thanks to advancements in technology, NHL live streaming offers impeccable video quality, multi-camera angles, and expert commentary, providing an immersive viewing experience.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, live streaming brings you closer to the action, making you a part of every exhilarating moment. Cheer for your team, revel in the intensity, and celebrate their victories as if you were right there in the arena.

Maximizing User Engagement: The NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming Advantage

Combining NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming amplifies user engagement to unprecedented levels. When you become a part of this dynamic ecosystem, you open doors to exhilarating possibilities. Here’s how NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming enhance your overall experience:

Real-Time Betting: Engage in fast-paced, live betting opportunities that align with the pulse of the game. React to game-changing moments and adapt your strategy instantly to seize the best odds and maximize your winnings.
Community Interaction: Connect with fellow NHL enthusiasts, discuss predictions, and share your excitement within the vibrant community. Joining forces with like-minded individuals adds another layer of enjoyment to your NHL journey.
Rewards and Bonuses: Benefit from exclusive rewards, loyalty programs, and enticing bonuses offered by NHL Crypto Betting platforms. From sign-up bonuses to seasonal promotions, these incentives boost your bankroll and heighten the thrill of your NHL experience.
Accessible Anywhere, Anytime: Never miss a moment of NHL action, whether you’re at home, on the go, or traveling. NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming platforms are designed to cater to your mobile lifestyle, ensuring you’re always connected to the games you love.

Ignite Your NHL Experience with Crypto Betting and Live Streaming

As an NHL fan, you deserve an extraordinary experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional engagement. NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming offer a gateway to a realm where exhilaration knows no bounds.

Dive into the electrifying world of NHL Crypto Betting, stay ahead of the game with NHL trends betting, and immerse yourself in the adrenaline of seamless live streaming. The perfect fusion of technology, sports, and entertainment awaits you. Join now and ignite your NHL experience like never before!