Keeping your online counselling safe & secure

Online counselling has many benefits for clients; however, it also requires extra thought into online safety to protect you and your personal data. In this article I am going to list some of the things you can do to ensure that you protect your data regarding counselling online. 

• Keep up to date - Ensure your devices, apps and routers are updated to the most recent updates. These updates often have many different benefits, and these often include security updates to stay ahead of anyone who may be trying to gain access. Most devices will prompt you to update them, but it is easy to check in your device settings and on app stores. For more information "Google how to update..." and you will be given instructions of how to do so. 

  
  

• Avoid insecure Wi-Fi - Use a private and password protected Wi-Fi system. Preferably with a unique and strong password. Free public Wi-Fi is strongly discouraged as it is significantly less secure. 

  
  

• Use anti-virus software - Some devices may include anti-virus software, such as a Mac having protect x, but it is always worth checking and if it doesn't seek to get a third-party service. 

  
  

• Use a firewall - Again some devices include this like Mac's having a built-in firewall included within its operating system. If your device does not, again third-party services can be used. 

  
  

• Be scam aware - Check up to date advice on current scam trends and be aware that companies will not contact you and ask you for any secure information such as passwords or bank details. 

• Delete cookies - On your internet browser you can delete cookies, this will get rid of personal data that websites may use. 

For more information I recommend looking at the national cyber security centre website.