Despite how important it is to practice good computer safety habits, a lot of people still have difficulty remembering them. That’s a mistake. These good habits help protect your computer. Forgetting them can leave it exposed to the dangers of the Internet.
If you’re not careful, you might put your computer and data at risk. For instance, going on the Web usually is harmless, but a few websites are phishing sites, eager for your info. Some downloaded files might not seem threatening but contain malicious viruses.
When you’re dealing with an expensive gadget like a computer, it’s best to be on the safe side. The Internet is a dangerous place, but not everything you’ll see is harmful. Valuable services like Office 365 e-mail protection, competent anti-viruses, and physical backups go a long way in preserving your data. Make full use of them and avoid bricking your computer.
COMMON INTERNET AND COMPUTER PROBLEMS
Sooner or later, your PC will be under attack. Here are some of the common problems that you’ll face:
The most obvious one you might run into is phishing. Phishing spoofs actual websites like e-mail providers or forums in an attempt to make you surrender your password. Once you’ve given your info, they’ll lock you out of your accounts or use your credit card for false purchases.
Hacking is also another common problem. Weak and short passwords make your account susceptible to hacking. More malicious hackers use computer generated programs to gain access to your account.
Viruses can be introduced to your system in many ways. Downloading files and running random executables is an easy way to do it, but infected devices can also pass that virus to your computer. Depending on the virus itself, it will even steal data, change files, and render your laptop unusable.
Any of these can put your info at jeopardy. Practice good computer habits and prevent these from happening.
KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER CLEAN
The easiest way to keep your PC virus-free is to be careful. Don’t download files from sites or people you don’t trust. Don’t insert infected gadgets into your computer’s system. Introducing new data to your computer, especially if you’re unfamiliar with them, is an easy way to get a virus. At the same time, don’t go to suspicious websites. Some viruses are attached to the site itself and can infect your computer the moment you open them. Practice safe browsing and only go to trusted sites.
Don’t forget to put strong passwords and have a good anti-virus. When you’re putting up a password, make it obscure and strange. Add capitalizations, letters, and symbols if possible. The more convoluted the password is, the harder it will be to hack. Good anti-virus and e-mail protection services will also catch more obvious viruses. These will prevent them from wreaking havoc on your computer.
Lastly, use software to keep your files secure. Use online cloud storage and external hard-drives for essential data. You can’t account for everything that can happen to your computer. However, having a backup helps. Installing an authenticator and linking it to your phone and e-mail also enables you to keep track of any log-ins. These will help your computer remain safe.
If you’re smart about your info, you’ll have little to worry about. The Internet is a dangerous place, but being wary and smart will keep your computer secure.
