Today, we use internet-connected technology in almost all aspects of our lives. We can now bank, shop, attend meetings, book flights through our smartphones. We can now order food, groceries and even medicines with just a few taps. With the onset of social media, even staying in touch with family, friends and loved ones now rely heavily on technology.
As a consequence of this convenience, our devices contain a wealth of data about our entire lives. This can include personal information, financial or bank records and medical records and these records are susceptible to identity thieves, frauds and hackers who can easily steal or damage these data.
Fortunately, you can lower your risks while online and protect your privacy and your personal data.
What are viruses and hackers?
Viruses are programming codes written to enter your computer and damage or modify your data. A virus can corrupt or wipe out data from your computer and they can also replicate themselves. Viruses usually enter your computers through downloads on the internet. So, before you download anything, make sure there aren’t any viruses attached to them.
Hackers are online predators who usually use phishing scams, email spam and bogus websites to compromise your privacy and security. They can access personal and private information, monitor conversations, or access sensitive financial data.
What can viruses and hackers do to me?
Viruses are programmed to inflict damage to your computers. They can delete files, damage programs or reformat the hard drive causing your computer to freeze or worse, crash.
Hackers can retrieve any personal information you have in your computer like your personally identifiable information, your browsing data, or your passwords. They can access your emails, instant messages or SMS records.
These online fraudsters are getting smarter and smarter and it is imperative that we take the necessary steps to keep our devices secure.
How to protect yourself from viruses and hackers
Use complex passwords
A secure password often equates to a longer and more complex password. The more secure your passwords are, the harder it is for hackers to crack them. Use a password that has a minimum of eight characters and a combination of upper and lowercase letters, special characters and numbers. Use a unique password for each online account. Don’t use recognizable words or combinations i.e., birthdays, names or other information that can easily be traced back to you.
Use a firewall
A firewall is a software that blocks hackers from gaining access into your computer. They are designed to create a “wall” between your information and the outside world. This is particularly vital if you have a high-speed internet connection, like DSL or cable.
Keep your devices updated
Continuously install new updates to your operating systems. Almost all updates contain security fixes that prevents hackers from accessing and misusing your data.
Install an antivirus software
An antivirus software defends your device from viruses that can wipe out your data, slow down or crash your device, or permit spammers to send emails using your account. It scans all your files and your incoming emails for viruses and deletes anything malicious.
Remember to shut down
Switching off your devices overnight or during long periods when not in use breaks the link a hacker may have established with your network and thus interrupt any possible theft.
Keep yourself safe!
These tips should help block viruses or hackers from getting into your networks, apps or devices, but as with all things in life, always err on the side of caution. Sometimes the mere act of thinking twice and having a good dose of common sense will help keep you safe.
