5 Tips for Keeping Your Computer Safe

Both business and personal computers usually contain a lot of sensitive or at least private information, photos, and data. Being careful when it comes to privacy and online security is becoming increasingly important.

The best way to approach creating a security system for your computer is to consider how you are using it and try to find weak spots a malicious person would take advantage of. With this in mind, create security checks and barriers and make sure to revisit and revise them every once in awhile.

Backup your data

Everyone’s always hoping that they won’t need to deal with any serious security breaches, but it’s best to be prepared for the worst and have a backup copy of all your sensitive data. There are basically two ways to go – cloud storage or an external hard drive. The first option is easier and with it, you can restore the data in a matter of seconds. External hard drives, on the other hand, can be used even if the internet connection is down. Sometimes it’s best to go with the mix of the two depending on the importance of the data in question.

Two-step verification

This is a security measure designed to make it more difficult to access online accounts. If you’re using bank accounts on your computer or make types of any payments, creating a two-step verification system is crucial. Choose a secure device, that no one beside you and the people you trust uses (this is usually a phone) and connect it with the accounts. Once you sign into the account or perform a sensitive action (like making a payment) you will receive a code on your phone. The action can be completed only by entering the code.

Dealing with viruses

Having a good antivirus installed and regularly updated is the first layer of defense, but it often isn’t enough. USB virus scanner provides additional protection because it detects the viruses that are missed by the antivirus as well. It’s also simple enough for anyone to use. The device is just plugged in when the computer is off and it removes the malicious software while it’s unable to do any more damage to your data. All the necessary antivirus updates are done automatically during this process.

Passwords

Even the average computer user has dozens of passwords to remember and maintain. The standard rules apply – it’s best not to use the same passwords more than once, try to have a combination of lower and upper case letters in each and change them now and again. This can be a lot of work and inconvenience so it might be a good idea to get a password manager. They generate passwords for you and connect them to the proper account, that way you only need to remember one (and it’s best to keep that one to yourself).

Common sense

Most security breaches happen via e-mail. This so-called phishing scams usually come in a form of a plea for charity or as some sort of business offer you shouldn’t miss. By applying simple common sense and opening and responding only to e-mails from people you know and trust a lot of security trouble can be avoided. Also, use some sort of filter that separates promotion e-mails from the ones you actually want to see and read.

It’s important to take proper precautions when dealing with online security. Having a system in place and acting with awareness about potential threats can save you a lot of time, trouble, and money.