Computer security is safeguarding computer systems and data against damage, theft, and illegal access. It's the method of guarding against and detecting unlawful access to your computer system. In addition, computer security refers to the precautions to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of all computer components. Different computer security methods are frequently utilized to protect sensitive information.
In the age of modern technology there's not much you can't do with a computer. Our entire lives are stored in servers all across the world and at home as well. While you can't do much about those Facebook servers with embarrassing photos of you when you were twelve you can protect what you store locally at home on all of your connected devices.
Things You Need to Know about Computer Security
It's important to recognize the modern threats that you and your personal data face. With all types of malware, viruses, and worst of all, ransomware. You hear about it in the news all the time, someone clicked a link and the next thing they know their data is locked away and the attacker is requesting that they send $100 in Bitcoin and they'll send them the key to unlock their computer. Let's learn how to secure your computer from hackers so that they can be avoided in the future.
Keep Your Device Secure
We are becoming increasingly reliant on electronic devices. If we don't use it wisely, it might be detrimental to our security. So, what measures can we take on computer security?
You've probably granted innumerable apps access to aspects of your Google account over time, which isn't a big concern in general. Still disconnect any apps you're no longer using.
Download software from a reputable source, such as the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. They have a higher level of security than others.
Start utilizing biometric security or a PIN, pattern, or password on your devices if you haven't already.
Ad blockers are a great way to avoid seeing advertising that isn't necessary. They speed up the loading of web pages, prevent advertising from monitoring you across several websites, reduce bandwidth, and save battery life.
Avoid Untrusted Websites
Our first tip is to not go to un-trusted websites that are insecure. This might seem obvious for most but for some people, it really ends up being a challenge. It might seem tempting to try that cool new game or get that free coupon but no matter how much you have the urge to go to that site. Don't. Stick to the sites that are trusted and secured.
The second tip is not to click every link you come across. Again, pretty obvious but it gets people every time. It may end up sending you to a malicious website, downloading a script, or stealing all your computer data. Only click trusted links from secure, trusted websites.
Third tip: Avoid popups. Malicious web developers are tricky, when you get a popup it might look legit but be wary. If it's asking for personal information or telling you your computer is broken, exit the popup and move on. Better yet exit the tab entirely and clear your browsing history.
Keep Your Devices Up-to-Date
Software upgrades are frequently used to maintain computer security. Manufacturers and app developers typically issue software upgrades regularly until their product is no longer supported. These updates often include new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. In addition, they frequently have security fixes and new security measures, which should be installed.
Patches are essential because they address known flaws in goods that attackers can exploit to get access to your devices. In addition, new security measures make it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your devices.
Many gadgets and apps can install updates automatically, but they may require some assistance from the user, so keep a watch on updates if they stop operating.
Choose Your Password Wisely & Strong
How to protect your computer from hackers? The first step has to be a strong password.
Use a different password for each of your critical accounts (i.e., email and online banking).
Use different passwords for different accounts.
Your password must contain at least eight characters. Lowercase and uppercase letters, numerals, and symbols should all be included in the password. If adequately created, a long password will provide more security than a short password.
When creating your password, avoid using sensitive information such as names, age, date of birth, child's name, pet's name, or favorite color/song.
Consecutive keyboard combinations should be avoided (i.e., qwerty or asdfg).
Passwords should not be entered on machines you do not have access to.
When using an insecure Wi-Fi connection, avoid typing passwords.
Always Use Strong Authentication/ Double Verification
Double verification can add a new level to your computer security. Two-factor authentication is a security method in which users validate their identity using two different authentication factors. This approach requires a user to provide a password as the first and second distinct factors — commonly a security token or a biometric element like a fingerprint or facial scan. As a result, it is more difficult for attackers to obtain access to a person's devices or online accounts because a compromised password is insufficient to pass the authentication check.
Think Twice before Shop Online
Click, and the goods are delivered to your door – sounds exciting, right? However, if you don't take these precautions, it could be dangerous-
Purchase from a reputable website or online page. Even if they're brand new, try to explore genuine evaluations or opinions.
Never use your credit card to buy on a website that does not use SSL encryption. Instead of HTTP, the site will start with HTTPS. A padlock icon will show on the left of the URL in the address bar or the status bar down below.
No store requires your Social Security number or your birthday to do business.
Always shop with a credit card. It does not grant a seller direct access to your money.
Control Who will See What You Share
We are increasingly using social media to share our lives with our pals. However, it may provide hackers with access. Control who sees your details. Your public information is visible to anyone. So do not enter any personal information such as social security number or credit card number. Also, your timetable or travel plans, your children's name and the schools they attend, financial status, and your address. Any of this information could be used against you in the future. So take precautions and enjoy your life.
Double verification can add a new level to your computer security. Two-factor authentication is a security method in which users validate their identity using two different authentication factors. This approach requires a user to provide a password as the first and second distinct factors — commonly a security token or a biometric element like a fingerprint or facial scan. As a result, it is more difficult for attackers to obtain access to a person's devices or online accounts because a compromised password is insufficient to pass the authentication check.
And our tenth and final tip: Come to Computer Answers. We have the tools, resources, technicians, and experience to help you in any situation you might be in. We're happy to help recover data, remove malware and viruses and keep your computer running smoothly. We have free diagnostics and free estimates so feel free to stop by any time. Thank you.
Author
Kiern Feeney
