Your Computer is a Library of Peronsal Info
In our modern world, people use their computers for just about everything. From filing tax returns to shopping online to personal and sensitive correspondence, the average personal computer contains a plethora of personal information that needs to be protected from identity thieves and other people who would take advantage of what they find. Here are five ways to make sure that the PC is secure.
Have a Solid, Reliable Anti – Virus Program
No matter how cautious a person may be about the links they click, at some point everyone will find themselves on some type of suspicious site. Viruses, Trojans, and similar types of programs can see inside the computer and steal personal information. A protective program can prevent these types of malicious software from causing major problems for the entire computer system. Make sure to keep the program updated regularly and that scans are run about once per day.
Have a Spyware and Malware Removal Tool
The other type of common way to control a person’s computer is through spyware and malware. These programs can be written to do things like record where the user goes online, record keystrokes, and more. Although many types of virus protection software contain the basics for malware and spyware as well, having a specialized program designed and updated specifically for malware offers even more protection. Like the anti – virus program, make sure this removal tool is regularly updated and run scans frequently to check the system for problems.
Make Sure the Computer is Protected by a Strong Password
This can help keep data safe from hackers and protect a laptop should it ever be lost or stolen. A strong password should be something that cannot be easily guessed, such as ABCDE or 12345. One of the most commonly recommended ways to develop a password is make sure the password contains capital and lowercase letters as well as numbers. Some recommend taking a word and replacing some of the letters with numbers, such as replacing an ‘o’ with a ‘0’, or an ‘E’ with a ‘3’.
Minimize the Use of the Administrative Account
The administrative account, which can be used to make changes to the computer system, should only be used when necessary. The rest of the time make sure everyone uses as standard account. The less the account is used, the lower the risk that the account will be opened up to those who might have less than admirable uses for the information in the computer.
Make Sure a Firewall is Installed
Many computers and laptops, such as Windows comes with a basic firewall pre-installed. A firewall helps to control the flow of information in and out of the computer, so users should make sure that at least the basics are turned on. Those who have highly sensitive information on the computer, such as company information, may want to consider getting a stronger firewall in addition to the one pre-installed.
Home Security Counts
One of the first item a thief will take is your computer. Thieves know that even though the computer may not be worth much as a resold item, that the data inside could be worth thousands of dollars. You can prevent a thief from entering your house by making steps towards keeping your home safe. Some quick steps you can take are: leaving a light on when you leave, checking your windows and doors to ensure they lock tight, and letting neighbors know when you go out of town. Check out HomeSecurity911.com/adt/ for home security in your area that fits just about any budget.
Keeping a computer safe is an important aspect of safeguarding personal information. While being safe and cautious while browsing the internet is always important, sometimes it is impossible to predict where attacks are going to come from. The above tips can help make sure that people have their PCs as protected as possible.