There are several steps you can take to protect your computer from hackers and viruses. We are sharing simple steps will help you keep your computer safe and secure, so you will not lose money or valuable data.
What is Hacker?
Hacker is a person who illegally accesses a computer or network, typically with malicious intent. Most of these people use their knowledge for criminal activities, but not all do.
There are also many ethical hackers (so-called ethical hackers) who evaluate/break into systems with permission to expose vulnerabilities and help improve security measures. Others simply break in for fame or for fun.
What is a virus?
A computer virus is a type of malicious software program designed to infect a computer.
Viruses are considered malware, as they are often designed with destructive or disruptive capabilities.
While other forms of malware exist that perform actions such as keylogging, spamming and screen-locking, viruses have traditionally been used for these purposes.
How do hackers access your computer?
Some people mistakenly believe that if they do not use online banking or visit any sites containing sensitive information, they cannot be hacked. This is extremely far from true.
In fact, there are several diverse ways in which hackers can access your computer.
No matter what type of computer you have, or how carefully you protect your data, hackers can access your computer through software updates-even if you only used a few apps-or by exploiting unprotected Wi-Fi networks at home or work.
How to secure your computer from hackers?
8 Best Ways to Secure your Computer from Hacker
1. Use an Antivirus
Antivirus software is one of your most effective weapons against hackers and viruses. Just like how a chef might use several different spices to flavor a dish, adding multiple layers of protection is a clever idea. McAfee, Norton, Kaspersky—these are just some examples of antivirus software that you can choose from based on user reviews or recommendations.
You will also want to ensure that you have an active subscription if you do not already; often free antivirus programs will be limited in their capabilities and not provide real-time protection.
Additionally, some antivirus programs include free firewalls which can further protect your computer from hacker intrusions.
2. Do regular software updates
Software is constantly being updated, so it is important that you check your computer software regularly to ensure you have the latest updates. Updates are crucial because they patch security holes in software so that hackers cannot exploit them. By doing regular updates, you can help protect your computer—and keep hackers at bay.
3. Add a firewall
This is a security feature, which prevents others from gaining access to your computer. Firewalls are part of most antivirus software suites, so if you are using antivirus software then it is turned on.
A firewall can also be purchased as an add-on or integrated into another security program that is part of your operating system (Windows or Mac). Malvertising can also compromise your internet security, which is when an attacker takes over the website you visit.
For example, you could be on a reputable news site while they unknowingly display malware or viruses onto your computer.
To combat malvertising attacks, make sure that you use up-to-date anti-virus software on all devices (both mobile and desktop).
4. Use strong passwords
How can you protect your online security? The most basic advice is that you should use strong passwords. Make sure your passwords are a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
A simple password like password or 123456 is a dangerous one, because it is so easy for hackers to crack—and once they have access to your account, they can quickly access other accounts linked to it.
The most crucial step you can take is to create a different password for each of your online accounts.
This is known as a strong password because it cannot be easily guessed. It is recommended that you use at least eight characters with a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
This makes it exceedingly difficult for hackers to guess your passwords by brute force methods—such as trying every combination until they find one that works.
5. Update everything (including Windows)
If you do not update your software regularly, you leave yourself open to problems that can range from minor annoyances (slowdowns) to serious security issues. To stay safe, make sure everything is updated frequently.
For example, Windows should be updated at least twice a year. After installing updates, restart your computer for them to take effect.
Do not turn off or hibernate your computer during updates as doing so may result in incomplete installations or damage files that are currently in use by applications on your PC.
It is a clever idea to install updates immediately when available. This is especially true for Windows, as updates are not installed automatically for all versions of Windows.
You can set Windows Update to download and install updates automatically. If you do not have automatic updates enabled, be sure to remember to check in regularly for new software releases.
To find out which version of Windows you are running, type winver in your Start menu’s search box and press Enter.
6. Minimize Internet use while you are online
Although your email inbox might be tempting, you do not need to read every single message that comes in.
Delete any emails you do not think are important, as well as send out a few emails of your own.
Any time spent online is time not being used for something else—and it can also be harmful if you end up running into viruses or hackers by accident.
7. Always download file from authentic source
If you are planning to download a file, always check to make sure it is coming from an authentic source. This means that you should avoid clicking on ads that may appear when you are surfing online (also called malvertising).
A way to be sure that you are not downloading viruses or malicious software is by not downloading files at all, instead subscribing to your computer programs with a credit card so it can be tracked.
8. Do weekly system checks
There are lots of free tools that will scan your computer for viruses and other security risks. Run these weekly, and you will never be blindsided by a virus attack.
My favorite tool is Norton Security Scan, but you can use any of your preferred malware scanners.
If you do not have one yet, take a few minutes to install one today—and do not forget to run it every week!
Protect your Online privacy
ExpressVPN Get 12 months + 3 months free with this special offer!
You Might Like:
