Best tips and practices for data and internet security
Cybercrime is one of the most dangerous and serious threats today. A small mistake and your data can be compromised. A data breach can lead to funding loss and other problems. There is no fully secured technology. However, adopting certain security tips and practices can help in securing the device and data. Learn about threats and dangers to your device and practice security techniques.
Use anti-malware
You must install a good antivirus on your device. Malware is one of the biggest dangers to your device. You can’t detect malware on your device manually. A single virus or spyware can lead to data loss. Antivirus can detect all malware from the device and can easily remove them. Anti-malware programs are available in both free and paid plans. Free antivirus plans provide basic tools like virus removal, RAM booster, junk cleanup, etc. You can use a free plan if you use your device for basic tasks. But if you use your device for crucial tasks or you save confidential data then you should use a premium antivirus plan. Premium antivirus programs also provide internet security tools. You can buy an antivirus subscription and secure your device from all threats. Before purchasing a subscription, you can go for free-trial plans. Many antivirus programs offer free trial plans where you can use the paid tools for a month. If you like the tools you can buy the subscription otherwise cancel Avast account subscription and try another plan for device security.
Update your OS and apps
You must keep your operating system updated. The company provides new updates to add new features, upgrade security, and fix bugs. If your OS is outdated, it may not deal with the new threats. Whenever you see a new update for the OS, install it on your device immediately. Set your OS on the auto-update feature. Whenever a new update appears, it will automatically install when the device is connected to the internet. Along with the OS, you must update all the installed apps on your device. Go to the computer and open the Apps folder. Now check for available updates. Connect the device to the internet and install new updates for your applications.
Connect the device to a secure network only
An unsecured network can be a door to hackers. You should connect your device only to a secure connection. When the person doesn’t have personal internet data, he often tries to find a public network. Who doesn’t like a free Wi-Fi connection? But this free Wi-Fi can lead to a big loss. Never connect the device to an unsecured network. If you are connecting the device to any public network; avoid performing critical tasks like online banking, etc.
Use a firewall
A firewall is a necessary tool for all internet users. If you use the internet on your device then you must install a personal firewall. It actively monitors all network activities. Most new devices have inbuilt firewalls to protect the network from threats. But this firewall may not protect the network from new threats. You must use a personal firewall to keep the network safe. It will inspect all the incoming and outgoing traffic on the network. The firewall blocks all suspicious data packets from entering the device. Use a firewall to surf the internet securely.
New open suspicious email
You can also get malware via email. It is one of the most common methods to spread malware and phishing threats. Whenever you see any suspicious email, delete it immediately. Usually, suspicious emails automatically move to the spam folder. If you are getting spam emails in your inbox then mark them as spam and move them to the spam folder. Many times, cyber criminals create email addresses that look similar to authenticated ones. Whenever you see any email asking for any information then check the email correctly. Never share personal details without confirmation. Cybercriminals can also send malware via attachments. Never download any attachments or click on a link in a suspicious email. If you are receiving lots of spam emails then block the address and remove all spam emails.
Use browser security tools
If you are a netizen or surf the internet often then you should use browser security tools. When you search anything on a browser, you see lots of result pages. People often consider the top-ranking pages as genuine. But this is not true as the malicious page can also rank in the top positions. When you have a browser security tool, you can easily find secure pages.
Use strong passwords
Always create strong passwords for all your accounts. Your password can secure your device and accounts from unauthorized access. Even if a hacker gets the device, he needs a password to open the account. Don’t become lazy while creating a password. People often use 12345, abcde, DOB, phone number, etc as their passwords. But these passwords are very easy to guess. Any person who has your details can easily access your device. You set a password for a purpose so that you can secure your account from unauthorized access. Use alphanumeric passwords that are difficult to guess. Also, avoid using the same password for all your accounts. People use the same passwords for many accounts, so remembering different passwords is not easy. If you can’t remember your passwords then you should use a password manager. Don’t forget to change your password often.
Install reliable apps only
Thousands of applications are available for various purposes. But not all apps are safe. Many free apps carry malware that can harm your device. You should only install secure applications on your device. Check all reviews and ratings before installing any application on the device. You should also check the number of app downloads. Never install apps with low downloads. If you have any suspicious app on the device then uninstall it immediately. Use reliable apps on your device and work securely.
Use VPN on your device
VPN is a security tool that masks your IP address to protect your device from hackers. It also creates a secure channel for data transfer. You should use a VPN whenever you connect your device to a shared network. VPN can also help you to access content that is not available in your geographical location.
You can also use other security tools like data shredder, parental control, junk cleaner, RAM booster, email protection, anti-phishing, anti-ransomware, etc to secure your data and network.
