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Wednesday 5th Mar

Stay Safe Online with Onestream’s Top Security Tips

At Onestream, we want the best for our customers – not just the best value, fastest speeds, and most responsive customer service, but also for every user to enjoy their internet access safely and securely.

Unfortunately, cybercriminals, fraudsters, and hackers often do their best to disrupt that experience – but our experts have partnered with the very best in the business to help keep them at bay.

Here are some essential security tips and information about some market-leading cybersecurity providers we have partnered with to help give you extra peace of mind.

Choose a Unique Name for Your Router

At some point, you’ve probably seen a list of router names when trying to connect to a new network. If the owner hasn’t changed the router’s name – known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID) – it will often just broadcast the name of the hardware.

That can be dangerous because revealing the type of router you’re using can give hackers helpful clues on how to exploit your connection.

At Onestream, we make it easy for customers to personalize their Wi-Fi at the point of ordering. You tell us what you want the router to be called and set a secure password (more on that next). When it arrives, you just plug it in, and you’re good to go!

Choose a Hard-to-Guess Password

You wouldn’t leave the keys to your front door in plain sight – so make sure your password isn’t easy to guess! Hackers can use social engineering tactics to figure out common passwords based on personal information.

Tips for a strong password:

  • Use a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Consider using the first letters of a memorable phrase (e.g., lyrics from a song).
  • Never reuse passwords across multiple sites.
  • Use a password manager for added security.

If you choose personalized Wi-Fi with Onestream, your router will arrive with your secure password already set up for you.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN adds an extra layer of security – think of it as a protected tunnel for your internet connection. It encrypts your data, making it much harder for cybercriminals to access your private information.

As an Onestream customer, you get access to a free trial of NordVPN, with great rates available if you choose to continue.

Benefits of NordVPN:

  • Encrypts your connection for enhanced privacy and security.
  • Doesn’t slow down your browsing speed.
  • Use the VPN on up to 10 devices across Windows, Android, and Apple platforms.

Be Careful When Visiting Sites and Downloading Files

Even with strong security software, one of the biggest vulnerabilities is human error. Here are some ways to stay safe:

  • Only visit websites you trust and avoid downloading files from unknown sources.
  • If a deal on movies, music, or video games seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Watch out for phishing emails! Cybercriminals send fake emails pretending to be brands, banks, or delivery services to trick you into clicking malicious links.
  • Always check the sender’s email address for typos or inconsistencies. If unsure, delete the message.

Protect Against Viruses

Even the most careful internet users can fall victim to malware, spyware, or ransomware. Some viruses cause obvious damage, while others work silently in the background, stealing data.

Onestream customers can add McAfee Multi Access for award-winning protection across up to five devices (PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets).

McAfee Multi Access Features:

  • Fraud & financial threat monitoring.
  • Prevents access to risky websites.
  • Stops dangerous file downloads before they harm your device.

Extra Security Tips

Set Up a Guest Network

If visitors need Wi-Fi access, create a guest network so they can connect without accessing your main network.

Keep Your Router Firmware Up to Date

Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities. Make sure you’re running the latest version. If unsure, contact our customer support team for help.

Need More Help?

If you need help or advice about any of these tips, or any other aspect of online security, we’re here to help – just get in touch.