Cyber-attacks have become common and sophisticated. Detecting them is difficult but with certain amount of knowledge one can try to stay protected against them. Our carelessness is the biggest threat to our devices. So, to stay protected we have listed 12 most important tips that will guard and help you to protect your mobile and PC from cyber-attacks.
- Use Genuine Operating System
Avoid using pirated/cracked version of the operating system, use licensed version for maximum security. Also keep your OS up-to-date. Mobile users should avoid jailbreaking or rooting the device as it gives open access to the attackers.
- Download OS updates
Always keep your OS up-to-date, the best way to do that is to turn on automatic update on your Mac and Windows. On your phone always install whenever a new update is being released. Avoid delaying it.
Alternatively, if you don’t want to enable automatic update you can download them manually. While opting for manual option make sure you check the updated once in 15 days to stay updated.
Also Read: What Is Rootkit and How To Get Rid Of It?
- Run an antivirus
Install and run a reliable antivirus software with updated database definition. As it will identify the vulnerability in your PC or mobile and will help to protect your data against attacks. If you are using Windows 10 can use Windows defender, but having a third-party software adds up to the security.
Macs also have their own security system but do install one on it also to give multi-layer security to your system. Also for mobile devices use an updated and genuine security app as mobiles are more prone to attacks.
- Backup Data
Having backup of the data is very important. Therefore, always take automatic or incremental backup of your data. You can upload the data on cloud, on a flash drive, external drive or any media to keep securing. Data backup helps you fight against ransomware attacks.
- Check system settings and configuration
Keep a check on your Wifi, router and server settings. If they aren’t correctly configured there is a threat of them being compromised.
Also Read: A Brief Introduction To Hacking
- Passwords
Avoid using default passwords, change them at the time of setting up the device. As hackers always try to access your device first time with the default password. Also use strong passwords a combination of numbers and alphabets making it hard to guess.
- Use Firewall
Keep the firewall enabled as it helps to identify if hacker tries to access the device. Firewall provides maximum security to the system and helps to stay intruders out of the device.
- SSL certificates
While accessing a website look for SSL certificate as it tells if a site is secure or not. SSL certificates prevent users from getting scammed and data theft. It adds an additional security layer to the website you visit.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About: Scareware
- Keep a check on installation of third party programs
Most malicious codes come bundled with third party software. Therefore, while installing the program do check the signature and run them with absolute caution. Use trusted sites to download them and do extensive research before trusting on what they promise. Never allow automatic installation of any program or application.
- Don’t pay ransom
Never trust hackers for what they say, there is no guarantee that once you pay the demanded amount they will send you the decryption key in case of ransomware attack. The best way to deal with such a situation is to keep backup of data. Also, many times it’s just a gimmick to grab money so don’t fall for such scams.
- Read product review
Before downloading or falling for any product do read it negative reviews first and then go for it. Also, if you receive any warning message while installing them read it carefully. Don’t allow installation of add-ons as they usually act as browser hijacker.
Also Read: How to use Mac Parental Control on Mac OS High Sierra
These tips will help you add an additional layer to your device. If you are paranoid about your device security then as the first line of defense keep on changing device and accounts passwords quickly. This gives you an extra edge as hackers don’t use the password to access your account. They take some time so if you have a habit of changing passwords you can stay protected. Plus avoid saving your card details, social security number, bank account details online and offline both.
Quick Reaction:
Leave a Reply