Almost everything you engage in has moved to the internet. The covid-19 pandemic has made companies adopt work-from-home strategies. Your computer has therefore become one of your most valuable assets. Your computer’s safety is a critical factor you must now consider.
The number of cyber-attacks has also been on the rise. This leaves you vulnerable if you don’t put in measures to safeguard your device. Your sensitive information may be stolen or corrupted.
You, therefore, need to learn how to upgrade and protect your computer from cyber attackers and viruses. This article will guide you.
1. Download Recommended Updates Only
To keep your computer safe from hackers and cyber-attacks, download updates from your device’s manufacturer or operating system provider.
Some attackers have changed tact. They steal your data or corrupt it so that they can extort money from you. They hook their baits in places you can’t suspect. You may download their Spywares and viruses unknowingly.
That’s why you must download your updates from trusted sources. Permit system updates and safe firewalls, antivirus, antimalware, antispyware, and every critical application on your computer.
2. Keep Your Antivirus Software Updated
An antivirus today will protect your computer from a broader range of malicious software. The common malware your antivirus will guard against are viruses, Trojan, spyware, and ransomware.
Keep your antivirus software up-to-date so that your files and personal data will be safe. A safe Antivirus Software Download will keep you away from online vulnerabilities. In addition, you must always ensure that your antivirus is up-to-date to help protect your system from recent attacks.
3. Keep Your Antispyware Software Updated And Run It Regularly.
Attackers hide spyware software in your device and use it for identity theft and data breach. You will not easily detect this malware, for it can stay unnoticed for long. You can know spyware is in your computer when you experience slowed performance, too many ads, and when websites keep opening without your permission.
Antispyware, which presently is contained in many antivirus software, provides real-time protection by blocking any threats.
4. Update Your System, Browser, and Significant Apps Often
Outdated software in your computer is one of the significant vulnerabilities. Online attackers can easily manipulate them to give access to your device. Update your software regularly so that attackers will have limited chances to succeed.
5. Firewall Must Be Set Up Properly and Updated Regularly
This software is what will maintain a barrier between your data and the outside world. Most operating systems like windows will come with firewalls built-in and automatically turned on. Firewalls will screen out any threats to your information.
Hackers send out random calls (ping) across the web to millions of Computers. A firewall will block your computer from responding to such calls.
6. Use of Complex Passwords and Strong Methods of Authentication
You are your best protection from all malware. Seal out any possible weak points that online attackers could use to breach your data. Weak passwords leave you exposed since hackers can easily decode them.
Use long and complex passwords to improve your security online. Don’t use the same password on multiple sites. If you forget passwords, you can install a password management tool that can help you to recall them more easily.
Using robust authentication methods such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or codes linked to your phone will help you beat the hackers.
7. Pay Attention to Where You Click and Who You Give Your Information To
You may click websites that data thieves run if you are not alert. They may trick you into giving your personal information. Fraudsters may launch phishing attacks against you, so you need to be extra careful.
In phishing, the hackers will lure you by using seemingly genuine messages but later ask you to give details of your credit card. Don’t easily give your account details online to be safe.
8. Learn How To Tell When A Website Is Secure
You will notice that safe website domains start with HTTPS. They also have a locked padlock icon present in the URL at the top of your browser window. The above confirmations indicate that the site you are browsing has an SSL certificate.
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is online encryption that prevents hackers from accessing your financial information so that you can engage in safe online shopping.
Other issues on a website that should make you raise the alarm are:
- No privacy statement
- No address or phone numbers
- No certificate of authentication or “trust mark”
Set your privacy settings to limit who can see what you share on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Hackers can use details on your posts to access your other accounts. So you should also not share too much about yourself.
You are now well equipped to surf safely on the internet and to work confidently on your computer. But sometimes, you may have followed all safety measures yet still suffer a data breach. Place a fraud alert on your credit card and seek the help of cybersecurity experts.
I’m is an owner of Venostech.com, blogger, Android and technology enthusiast. Individual who are educated in the IT and like to write according my scope.
