Introduction
Do you think your computer’s basic security features are enough to protect it from virus?
Then Think again.
2018 was the year of the mega computer virus attacks, attacking big businesses websites like Facebook, Quora, and Marriott. The number of records affected increased by 133% from 2017.
If it can affect billion-dollar businesses, then it can happen to you too. As the number of security cyber threats growing with the growth of modern technology, you must know the most fundamental Tips to prevent your Computer from a virus.
In this post, we’ll reveal some useful tips to protect your computer from cyber-attacks. Read on to learn more, so you can avoid wasting your time engaging with a computer virus and spend it on some profitable goals of your business.
1. Use Strong Passwords:
Let’s start with the basics.
The commonly used passwords in the cyberspace are also threatful. As of 2018, which is not too far past, the top 3 passwords in use were:
- 123456
- password
- 123456789
And people wonder why our security breaches everywhere?
Try to keep your data safe by creating unique passwords. The best encryption includes a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols and up to 8 characters long.
While regarding the topic, avoid using the same username and password across multiple sites. If a hacker can hack one site, you’ve left the door open to the rest of your data.
2. Keep Everything up to Date:
The second basic step to take is to have the latest versions of all software installed on your all devices.
Because software updates include features designed to resist the latest security threats and a computer virus. There are many types of viruses but keeping Microsoft, Oracle, and other makers regularly update their software to eliminate “bugs” that hackers could destroy.
If you have an operating system from 2 years ago, it’s vulnerable against any viruses or computer malware developed meanwhile. Try to install all new software updates as soon as they become available.
3. Use Antivirus Software:
The next thing is, how to prevent computer viruses, as we can get many antivirus software.
Antivirus software acts as a “vaccine” against cyber viruses. It can identify and remove the threat before you were even known about it.
Microsoft Security Essentials, Eset Nod32, and Avast are the antivirus programs you can install. There are also paid options to host, although the extra cost is worth it.
4. Use a Firewall
By avoiding many types of viruses, using antivirus programs doesn’t automatically mean you have a firewall.
Macs and Windows PCs both come with pre-installed firewall software in it. Make sure it provides an extra surface of protection from viruses and malware.
5. Install a Popup Blocker:
Many cyber-attacks happen through unsafe browsers, as you go about your daily online routine. Hackers can have access to your computer by a single click on the wrong ad or link.
An ad blocker is essential to protecting your computer from any malware. It will stop any unwanted webpages from opening by themselves, or automatically which would give you far better protection.
6. Beware of Email Phishing Scams:
Reportedly more than 40% of security breaches with a phishing scam.
These pop up in e-mail form under the appearance of a legitimate company. Their objective is to get you to either providing personal information or click on an infected link that gives them access to your computer.
Any legal company will have its domain name for their emails. If you receive an email address claims to be from Microsoft, Paypal, or Netflix but ends with @gmail.com, it’s a scam, don’t open it.
Other indications include misspellings, poor grammar, and some suspicious attachments, or links. A legitimate company won’t invite you by email to log in and ask for your personal or billing information.
The better rule to live by—if you are in doubt, don’t click on it!
7. Educate Your Family & Staff:
Most cyber-attacks appear through an innocent and senseless action by an uneducated person.
This could be a computer illiterate family member, a child, or an employee who isn’t informed of smart internet practices.
If you have any uncertainty about any person who uses your computer, have a few minutes to teach them the basics, such as not opening emails or clicking on links from unknown pages.
A few moments of education could mean preventing cyber-attack.
7. Know the Signs of Infection:
Despite your best efforts, computer viruses still can and will attack.
Do you know how to detect a virus on your computer? Here are a few things to watch for:
- Frequent error messages.
- Unexpected computer shutdowns.
- Suddenly slows down the computer.
- Requires time too long to shut down or restart.
- Showing new toolbars to you that you didn’t install.
- Changes appear to your homepage.
- Rapidly draining the battery of your portable device.
Any of these signs could mean your computer device infect. If you see more than one of these indications, you surely have a virus attack.
Try all your software is updated and then make a scan. You can also search online forums for scanning computer.
9. Additional Security Features:
In the end, you should perform weekly or daily backups of your important data. Save it in the cloud, USB or on a separate hard drive.
So, if you do accidentally get a virus, your essential information won’t be lost or negotiate.
For extra protection, consider some advanced security measures. This defends not just your computer but your whole network.
Now You Know:
So, how can you protect your computer from viruses in this modern era of technology?
Much of the protection starts with your side. Use antivirus software and do your programs and software up to date. You should also take charge of firewalls, website blockers, and strong passwords.
Of course, the bigger your business is, the more you have to lose. These basic provisions for how to prevent computer viruses are a start, but are they well enough?
Don’t take a chance. If you don’t know about advanced security services then search for it online and keep your data safe.
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