Freelancers do most of their work online, creating and compiling data. They may not realise that they are a primary target of hackers because they assume they are a tiny entity.

Hackers can use almost any piece of personal information they obtain to harm the owner. For example, social security and credit card numbers can be used for fraudulent purchases and for taking out home loans. Even email addresses can be used for phishing messages to steal data from others.

It's vital to implement standard security methods so you don't fall for commons scams.

• Use smart passwords - a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters - and change them often.
• Consider a two-factor authentication on your phone a...