Some argue today’s world is less safe than 20 – even 10 – years ago. This may or may not be true, but we do have to keep more things in mind. Cyberattacks were not unheard of 20 years ago, but right now they are far more widespread than ever before. In fact, 24,925 Australians reported phishing attacks, losing a combined $373,860, according to ScamWatch. This isn’t limited to just computers, though. How can you protect your family in every way possible? Here are the five crucial ways you can keep your family safe.
Install cyber security software
As mentioned earlier, you should install cyber security software on all your devices. That means anti-virus and anti-malware on your computers and phones (especially on Android.) Most anti-virus packages give you more than one licence, which means you can install it across multiple devices. Make sure you find a package that provides anti-ransomware protection, a robust firewall and a device locker to ensure top security. This can prevent identity fraud, too.
Purchase life insurance
Did you know the cost of sending two children to Government schools through to year 12 and a three-year uni degree costs, on average, $537,000? The dire fact about this is that according to the Financial Services Council of Australia, 1 in 3 Australians don’t understand the importance of life insurance. Life or disability insurance will protect your family if you or a loved one dies or becomes ill or incapacitated and cannot work. It will keep paying your bills, mortgage and other expenses until you can get back on your feet.
Do a house-wide security audit & upgrade where necessary
10% of Australian households have experienced theft or break-in according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. [http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/mf/4530.0] You can prevent this with simple measures. The modern home has many hazards and entry points that can be detrimental to adults and kids alike. Do a security audit of your entire home and make changes where necessary. Are your hazardous chemicals on a high shelf or out of reach of your children? Do you have cables running across the floor, which people could trip over? Are your smoke detectors working? Do you have tough screen doors that can resist entry? If the answer is no, make changes and install new equipment as necessary.
Install an alarm system
One of the best ways to keep your family safe is to install a burglar alarm system. This keeps your belongings safe when you’re away, alerting the authorities in the event of a break in. “Back to base” alarm systems can also notify the police in the event of a home invasion. You can also install CCTV to add even more protection, especially if you want to check on smaller children under the care of others.
Be disaster ready
Australia experiences almost every natural disaster Mother Nature can throw at us. Bushfires, floods, cyclones – there isn’t one place in Australia that isn’t immune. You should have a disaster plan in place. Set an evacuation rally point that everyone can understand in the event of a fire or flood. Have an emergency kit such as a first aid kit, torches, water and other essentials so you can leave at a moment’s notice.