The development of the internet and the widespread use of PCs have brought with them new possibilities. However, it has also created many problems. Spam is now invading email accounts, and viruses and malware are wreaking havoc on network systems.
On the other hand, hackers have taken this as an opportunity to infiltrate computers and steal personal data such as bank credentials and people's identities. As a result, using computers and the internet has become something that comes with immense security risks.
Fortunately, there are various measures you can undertake to reduce the risk of having your device compromised. In this article, we will discuss seven easy steps you can take in order to make yourself less vulnerable to attacks.
While some measures are easy to implement, others will need more time, money, and resources. As such, you will have to weigh the pros and cons before you settle on the most appropriate solution. Read on to learn more about how you can protect your devices from attacks.
1. Set Strong Passwords
Using strong passwords is the most basic way of preventing network intrusions and attacks. The stronger a password is, the more difficult it is for a cyber criminal to penetrate your system. To create secure passwords, always use a combination of different characters including letters, numbers, and computer symbols.
If you think you will have a problem remembering many passwords, then you should use a password manager. What's more, you can combine this intervention with multi-factor authentication to increase the level of your computer's security.
2. Make use of Reputable Websites
To reduce vulnerability to cyberattacks, always use and download files from reputable sites. This is because there are websites out there that are designed to take advantage of security flaws. Most of them are scams that will infect your PC with malware or even trick you into divulging sensitive information.
To know whether a site is reputable or not, simply look at the URL field. If you see a lock symbol and the prefix “HTTPS”, then that site is secure. With this confirmed, you can comfortably log into your online mobile casino to play your favourite games.
3. Keep Your Antivirus Updated
Computer malware and viruses are everywhere and when they infiltrate your computer, they can delete important files. Installing an antivirus program will keep your computer safe from unauthorized and harmful software. Apart from that, always ensure the antivirus is up to date.
What is great is that most of the antivirus options in the market provide automatic updates that offer protection against new viruses emerging every day. With the programme on your computer, you can run regular virus scans. This will ensure real-time threats are detected as early as possible, while protecting your data at all times.
4. Use a Firewall for Your Router
A firewall works by preventing or stopping communication between a computer and the internet. As a result, it protects your device from external threats and at the same time, blocks data from leaving it. A vast majority of internet providers usually offer a firewall on their routers when you register for their services.
However, if a firewall is not included, you can always install one to enhance the security of your device before going online. In fact, you can even purchase an extra networking firewall if you own a big business.
5. Use a VPN
Using a Virtual Private Network is an effective way to enhance your security, particularly when browsing online. A VPN works by encrypting all your internet traffic and tunnelling it via a separate intermediary server owned by the host company. This effectively hides your IP address and replaces it with another one, hence nobody can monitor your online activity.
The good thing is that you can even choose your preferred server location according to your needs, and browse securely via open networks. Furthermore, you will be able to enjoy access to censored materials as well as geographically-locked content.
6. Avoid Connecting to Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is no doubt a great convenience. With your laptop computer in hand, you can go to a local cyber cafe without worrying that you'll be disconnected from the internet. Similarly, you can book into a hotel and connect immediately, normally for free. The only problem is that public Wi-Fi isn't secure at all, as it is unencrypted.
This means that everyone on the network can spy on your online activities and even steal your passwords. The bottom line is, avoid connecting to the internet via public Wi-Fi. If you must, then always use a secure connection such as a VPN.
7. Go the extra step and Encrypt your Data
Whether your PC contains your life’s work or sentimental videos and photos, it’s worth protecting that data. One effective way to make sure your data isn't accessed by the wrong people is to encrypt it. Such protected data will need resources to decode, which is enough to discourage a hacker from attempting anything.
There is a vast array of applications in the market that can assist in encrypting the files on your computer. However, for full hard disk encryption, popular tools such as BitLocker and VeraCrypt will help in this regard.
Conclusion
When you get into your office and start working with a company-owned PC, you don't have to be concerned about online security. That is the role of the IT department, right? Well, if you have that thinking, then you are very wrong. Nowadays, things are not that simple. If you are one of those who have found themselves doing work from home, your security is your responsibility. Luckily, you don't need to worry about addressing this issue.
There are lots of measures you can implement to enhance the security of your computer. The 7 aforementioned ways will help in protecting your device from external threats and cyberattacks. Other equally effective measures include avoiding spam and suspicious links as well as using decent browsers. Follow these tips to ensure that your private data and confidential records are kept as secure as possible.
