In a world of computers and widespread internet usage, how can you stay safe and avoid trouble?
There are many real threats out there, so cybersecurity really is a concern. It’s best to take the approach of having both a solid defence and a reliable offence that you can call upon should you need it.
In this article, we’ll provide some guidance for people who use computers regularly and are worried about the security risks, from identity theft, hackers, and more.
Operating System Updates
Your computer uses an operating system. Most of the time this is some version of Windows, macOS, or Linux. Each of these operating systems gets regularly patched to resolve security bugs found by researchers, implement better procedures, and to occasionally add a new feature or two.
- Windows: Check Windows Update from the Start menu/screen to verify any software updates available for your version of Windows. Bear in mind that older versions will eventually stop receiving updates when they’re no longer supported. If you’re using an unsupported Windows version, you should upgrade as soon as possible.
- macOS: To check if there are updates for your Mac, locate the System Preferences in the Apple menu, and select Software Update. The operating system will then check the Apple website to verify the status and confirm back to you.
- Linux: Linux usually periodically updates itself or confirms when it has found an update.
- Good antivirus software can significantly reduce security risks. Check out the great resource where Norton vs Avast – two leading protection software are compared.
Safer Web Browsing
Safer browsing is very important. Modern web browsers have extra security built-in nowadays, including warnings about dangerous websites before visiting them and blocking pop-ups. If you’re using an older version of a web browser, update to the latest one. There’s usually a facility for this in the Options or System Preferences menu option of the browser application.
Be careful about what websites you access. If you aren’t familiar with the company, question whether it’s a good website or not. If you cannot get information about the site, find an alternative to get what you need.
Use private browsing, an option that prevents too much information being shared, to access websites with fewer concerns.
Have You Been Hacked?
If you’ve found that your computer is doing strange things, it may have crossed your mind that you have been hacked. If you have only recently put better security in place, an intruder may have gained access to your PC through your emails, web browser, or an unpatched operating system before you.
In this case, it’s best to get a professional team like Secure Forensics to investigate the possible intrusion for you. This way, they can ascertain what’s happened, how it occurred, and what data might have been stolen. Only then can you appreciate the extent of the damage. The sooner you take cybersecurity more seriously, the better. It’s best to do it early to avoid a negative outcome. Information can be stolen and shared online. Personal documents, financial records, or business information can be damaging in the wrong hands. Get help with it if you don’t feel capable of implementing better security yourself. It’s worth it.
