As time runs by and technological advancements develop, people bring more and more internet-enabled devices to their homes and a personal computer is one of them. The security and safety of your PC is almost something you have to deal regularly with and have been dealing with a long time. Unfortunately, common sense alone is not enough to protect your PC from malicious malware software that interrupts your computer operations or assembles sensitive data and information about your online behavior.
Think of your PC as a company and take essential steps to protect it against unwanted hackers. Your personal computer has a lot of your personal data that is critical to set up, protective measures are required to be taken in case of mechanical failures or cyber attacks.
Here are five smart steps that can ensure to keep your PC safe from unwanted digital intruders:
1. UPDATE YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM
Updating your OS and other important software frequently keeps online intruders from accessing your system, via vulnerabilities in outdated software and programs. For extra security and safety, you can also enable Microsoft product updates that allow the Office Suite to get updated simultaneously. Also, uninstall susceptible software such as Flash or Java from your PC.
2. BEWARE OF FREE OPEN WIFI
Avoid connecting your PC via free wifi connection in your surroundings. Although accessing a free wi-fi connection seems like a great idea, you need to beware not to enter personal information when surfing on them. These wi-fi spots are usually unencrypted and are an easy target for hackers to monitor your online activities. Also, don’t use an open wifi as it also gives hackers the access to steal your connection and download illegal files. Keep your wifi protected with an encrypted password.
3. CHECK THE SECURITY SETTINGS OF THE BROWSER
Browsers have many privacy and security settings that should be reviewed on a regular basis and set to the level you want. Latest browsers provide you the ability to tell websites not to track your online activities and movements, thus increasing your security and privacy.
4. USE SECURE AND COMPLEX PASSWORDS
The most important step of defense to maintain PC security is to have a strong and secure password. Using complex passwords is a smart security step and is difficult for the savvy hackers to find. Set a password that includes a combination of letters (both lower and uppercase), special character and at least 8 characters in length. Keep in mind that, skilled hackers can break easy passwords in a few seconds. It’s better to use complex passwords for your PC.
5. DON’T OPEN SUSPICIOUS FILES AND EMAILS
Avoid opening a file or an email from an unknown source. If you are suspicious of the contents or origin of the email, the best response is to delete the email without opening it. If you have any junk messages in your inbox, delete them as well. Opening these messages and emails can alert hackers or put your PC at risk.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We hope these 5 smart steps to keep your PC safe from hackers would prove to be helpful for you. Our technicians are experienced in a variety of repairs, including hard drive repair and virus removal softwares. If you are looking for computer or laptop repair services , get in touch with us!