Protection For Everyone

While no system is completely safe from cyber threats, there are numerous things users can do to make their computers and their data safer from attacks. Most times the weakest part of the security chain is us users because we don't want to think about it and don't take the steps to secure ourselves.

A few steps can help protect your computer

First you better have some type of antivirus! And no you don't have to empty your wallet to get it, some free options are available and anything is really better than nothing. The protection that is best is up to everyone to decide. AVG is one of a few that provide free basic protection. It will at least protect your computer some. Picking the right protection is up to the individual, just have something!

Next you have that antivirus protecting you.....well not if it is out of date. Keep on top of those updates. Make sure your computer checks for updates often. If you don't want it updating by itself, fine but have it check and notify you. All those programs that you haven't updated provide holes for security breaches.

All those passwords named after you pets or children are easy for hackers to figure out. Use short phrases that mean something to you, mix in upper and lower case, and mix in numbers. Use different passwords and change them often. Also keeping your passwords written down isn't recommended but if you must keep them locked up somewhere so not just anybody can stumble upon them. We all hear this time and time again but it is important to use smart passwords.

Another thing that many people hear but never listen to is making backups.Computers die and have issues and the data on your computer isn't always recoverable. So please back your important things up, it saves you from regretting it later.

How much do you know about cyber security?

Be careful what you connect to. If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is. Make sure your home WiFi is secure and when going out make sure your computer does not automatically connect to a network that it sees.

Ever left yourself logged into Facebook and come back to a few status changes? Well while you were gone someone could've easily installed a virus to keylog your computer and see everything that you type, passwords and all. Don't just log of sites but also lock your computer if you are going away from it, even if it is just for a minute because one minute is enough for someone to seriously damage your computer.

Be aware of common scams and keep up on what is happening. Staying informed can sometimes be the best defense. The best defense is to be aware of what the trends are and to stay on top of updates. We all surf the Internet anyways, won't hurt to look up some stuff to help keep your browsing safe as well.