Get cyber-savvy this International Women’s Day by enhancing your online security

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a yearly celebration of the achievements of women everywhere.

Under the guise of the United Nation’s theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” International Women’s Day this year draws attention to the contributions women have made to the digital world and the importance of facilitating a safer, more inclusive digital and technological space for girls and women around the globe.

While our lives become more intertwined with technology, recent studies show that 37% of the world’s women do not use the internet, leaving them unable to access or unlock the potential of the digital world.

Moreover, a study conducted in 51 countries revealed 38% of women had personally suffered online attacks. Seventy-three percent of women journalists from 125 countries also said that they experienced some form of online harassment or violence during their work.

Despite these challenges, access to digitally connected devices and services has helped women achieve many accomplishments, on an educational, career or family level.

Connectivity and access to digital spaces have their perks, but they also create new ways to harm people online, including women and young girls.

So, whether you’re a mother, teacher, community leader, scientist, gamer or influencer, we call on you this March 8 to help create a safer and better digital experience for all. Get cyber smart and spread awareness to help other women avoid or handle difficult situations when going online by ensuring that you:

• Keep personal information private by not oversharing on social media or any other online platforms, including dating ones
• Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication
• Be mindful of what you share and ask permission to post information or media files of your friends and family members
• Block and report all threatening messages, harassment and online violence
• Make use of you privacy settings on social media accounts to thwart malicious individuals and stalkers
• Don’t fall for scammers posing as your love interest on dating sites or social media platforms; block and report users if they begin asking for money, make excuses for not meeting in person or offer you crypto investment opportunities
• Use a security solution and other privacy-oriented services to enhance your online security, and fend off online fraud, impersonation attempts and identity theft