Protecting your computer from onslaught of hackers is very important. Why? Because more and more of your life tasks are conducted through your computer. It is not just a gateway to your personal life but also to your financial information. However, there is a lot one can do to protect oneself from this menace. Read on to know how to protect your computer from hackers.
1. Invest in anti- virus software
Having an effective and up-to-date anti-virus software on your system is your best bet against the attack of computer hackers. If you do not like the idea of spending on buying an anti-virus software, there are plenty of free softwares that are available to download. They may come with irritating ad-ons, but are still worth it.
2. Keep your OS and other software updated
It’s a good idea to keep your OS updated. Take advantage of the continuous Windows updates that are provided to you. These updates not only service existing bugs but may also sometimes contain advanced security features that can really help you. Do not keep putting it off till some later date – you are risking hackers entering your system. The same goes for your other applications like your browsers or games or applications you use frequently. Make sure you are quick to avail of the latest update and do your bit to protect your computer.
3. Switch to a different OS
Windows is no longer the only option for users to operate their machines with. Apart from the popularity of Mac OS with Apple fanboys, there is also the completely free Linux operating system. Both of these are targeted much less in comparison with Windows OS and hence can be a safer bet. While Mac OS presents no difficulty in usability, the Linux software has a steep learning curve. Even so, the reduced possibility of a hacker attack coupled with the fact that it is completely free should make it a compelling choice.
4. Avoid hacker prone websites
There are a number of shady websites out there which are fishing grounds for hackers. How to know if they are shady? Easy! They look shady. Websites which promise free stuff – games, music, pornography can be honey traps for unsuspecting people. Be very careful when browsing the internet and stick to trusted websites which are less likely to have malicious content.
5. Install a good firewall system
Firewalls provide important protection. They help in filtering both incoming and outgoing data streams. You can protect yourself from unwittingly downloading harmful files or loading malicious websites by installing a good firewall system.
6. Delete spam emails
One of the most common ways employed by hackers is targeting victims through spurious mails. Almost all internet users have at some point come across mails from known/unknown people talking about some link or inviting you to view photos. You need to be careful with all attachments. If it is from an unknown person and it is not necessary for you to know what the attachment contains, it is best deleted. If the mail originates from someone you know, you can still tell it’s not genuine as the mail would lack their personal touch or style of writing which you may be aware of. Still you can also contact them and check if such a mail did indeed originate from them.
7. Keep a backup of data and recovery files
Nobody likes to lose their data which includes work related documents, project documents, presentations to cherished personal photos or music collection. Despite best efforts it is possible that your computer security gets breached. It is therefore a good idea to keep a backup of all your important files so that in case of a computer hack, you will at least be able to get back on your feet immediately.
8. Pay attention to your password
We always groan at websites asking us to make passwords which are a mix of alpha numeric, special characters and capitalized letters and what not! However, as much as we hate the bother, it is important that we select a moderately difficult password to safeguard our online security. Also do not keep the same password for various websites as much as you might be tempted to. This will make breaching your security that much easier for a hacker.
9. Always be careful about what you download
It is easy and convenient to download stuff from the internet. Unfortunately a lot of hackers prey on this unsuspecting pursuit of convenience. It is therefore necessary that you take care of what you download. Always download things from trusted websites, better if you know people who have already downloaded the same application. It’s better to be safe than sorry!