Where Have I Been?

 I  had all the intention of blogging more this year but so far 2024 has been a sad/stressful/tiring year for us. 

Technically it all started in late 2023 when our little Azrael (our Cockapoo) was sick and had pancreatitis.  I could go do a super long post here with his health issues after that but it would be too much information lol.  Anyway, his health was declining fast after the beginning of March of this year. We took him to the vet often for meds and to be checked. The vet had no idea what was wrong with Azrael since his health was declining fast and he had lost a LOT of weight.  He was on meds every day.  Unfortunately, our sweet little Azrael passed away in my husband's arms on May 2nd.  I tried to do a blog post to tribute our Azrael, but it was so difficult.

He was such a sweet little guy who had such character.

After Azrael passed away I was just crying every day and it was at the point where it was just making me sick and I had a hard time eating and doing usual everyday things.  

My husband and I decided that we should look into getting another dog and we were just looking, but we came across some puppies we wanted to see. Even if it was to give snuggles. Hubby went and made an appointment for us to go see them. I still wasn't quite sure if we should since the pups were a whole different breeds than Azrael was and I knew it would be a HUGE change for us.

Anyway, on May 31st we welcomed Castiel the Border Collie/Australian Shepherd.

Castiel

  Right now as I am writing this post he is 4 months old and he is sleeping at my feet under my desk. He is about 30lbs and he is so full of energy. I have had a few dogs in my life (a lab mix and also a Staffordshire terrier ) but boy Castiel has way more energy than either one of those dogs ever had.  So as you can imagine my husband and I have been walking Castiel 2 times per day and I would do playtime in the backyard twice during the day on top of that he is constantly trying to grab things that he shouldn't be grabbing so I am constantly watching him.  The only times I can actually do anything is when he is sleeping.  

Castiel is doing puppy class once per week so hopefully, it will help him not always wanting to eat/chew everything and I won't have to watch him constantly. We have a schedule that we stick to so hopefully now that he is a bit older I will have time to actually do blogging.

Understanding Online Security: How to Keep Yourself Safe in the Digital World

 In this super-connected world, online security isn't just a buzzword - it's a must. Cyber threats are lurking everywhere, whether you're catching up on social media, scoring deals online, or just checking emails. But don't stress; you can keep your digital life secure with a few savvy strategies. Let’s dive into some easy-to-follow tips and tricks to make sure you’re safe and sound online.

Image by Werner Moser from Pixabay

Why Online Security Matters

Imagine your online world as a big digital house. Just like you wouldn’t leave your front door wide open, you don’t want to leave your online data exposed. With all the sensitive stuff we store online—bank info, private chats, and personal details—keeping everything locked up tight is crucial. A breach can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and a whole lot of headaches.

The Sneaky Threats Out There

So, what are the villains trying to get into your digital house? Here’s a rundown of common online threats you should know about:

Phishing Attacks

Phishing is like the digital version of a sneaky con artist. They trick you into giving up your personal info by pretending to be someone you trust. These scams can pop up in emails, texts, or even fake websites. Always double-check before clicking on links or sharing your details!

Malware

Malware is nasty software designed to mess up your device or steal your data. Think of it like a digital virus. It includes things like viruses, worms, and ransomware that can wreak havoc on your computer.

Spyware

Spyware is like having a nosy neighbour who’s peeking into your private life. This sneaky software monitors your activities and collects personal information without you even knowing.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

Imagine someone sneaking into a conversation between you and a friend to steal or change what’s being said. That’s essentially what a man-in-the-middle attack does, intercepting communications to grab sensitive data.

Social Engineering

Social engineering is a bit like psychological trickery. Scammers use manipulative tactics to get you to share confidential information. It can involve pretending to be someone you know or creating a fake scenario to get your info.

How to Fortify Your Digital Fortress

Ready to armour up? 

Here are some steps to beef up your online security:

1. Create a Strong and very Unique Passwords

• Your passwords are like the keys to your digital house. Make sure they’re strong and unique:

• Mix It Up: Combine letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Skip the Obvious: Avoid common passwords like "password123."

• Password Managers: Use tools like LastPass or 1Password to keep track of your passwords without stressing.

2. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Think of 2FA as an extra lock on your door. It requires a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone. This makes it much harder for someone to break in, even if they have your password.

3. Keep Your Software Updated

Regular updates to your operating system, browsers, and apps are like maintenance for your digital house. They patch up vulnerabilities and protect you from new threats.

4. Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi can be like a crowded room where anyone might overhear your conversation. Avoid accessing sensitive info or making transactions on these networks. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help keep your connection secure. Read more about how can someone track your phone.

Image by Firmbee from Pixabay

5. Watch Out for Emails and Links

Don’t let unsolicited emails or messages fool you. Be cautious about clicking on links or sharing personal info. Always verify the sender’s identity before taking any action.

6. Keep an Eye on Your Accounts

Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts. If you spot any unusual activity, address it ASAP to prevent further issues.

What Lies Ahead: The Future of Online Security

As technology evolves, so does online security. 

Here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Advances in Artificial Intelligence

AI is becoming a key player in online security, helping detect unusual activity and automate responses. But be aware - cybercriminals are also using AI for more sophisticated attacks.

• Privacy Laws on the Rise

Governments are tightening privacy regulations to better protect your data. Staying informed about these changes can help you stay compliant and keep your information secure.

• Focus on Personal Data Protection

Expect an increased focus on protecting personal data. Both individuals and businesses will need to adapt to new standards and practices for robust security.

Wrapping Up

In our digital age, keeping your online security in check is more important than ever. By following these tips, you can greatly enhance your digital safety.