5 Secure Computing Tips

September 7th, 2021 by William Wentowski

Cybercrime is growing faster than you might think. The internet has become a space that is continuously being attacked by malicious links, viruses, and Trojans. Whether you are self-employed, run a small business, or a large organization, you can be a victim of cybercrime if you don't practice secure computing tips.

It can cost you your identity, confidential information, crucial business information, and you may even end up paying a hefty ransom to the hacker. Therefore, stay protected by following the top 5 secure computing tips listed below. Take a look:

1. Keep Your Computer Up-to-Date

   If you find software updates annoying, let us tell you that they are essential for two reasons. Software updates:

   • Keep your computer secure from viruses and cyber attacks
   • Ensure your system runs smoothly

   They work as critical patches to security loopholes. These updates have security fixes like software bug removals and the most advanced software features, keeping your system updated and secure. However, by failing to update your system regularly, you are putting your security at risk. Therefore, it is advisable to:

   • Turn your automatic updates on
   • Use browsers like Firefox or Google Chrome for automatic and frequent security updates
   • Keep the plug-ins of your browser, such as Java or Flash updated

2. Don't Open Suspicious Emails They Can Be Phishing Scams

   Cybercriminals usually steal victims' personal information (like credit card numbers, personal details, passwords) through phishing emails and login accounts. Hence, phishing scams are a constant threat to your cybersecurity. Cybercriminals use these tactics to effectively steal credentials of the victim, extort cryptocurrency and install malware. Did you know that:

   • Phishing scams are the 3rd most common type of scam reported to the FBI
   • 97 percent of the individuals can't recognize phishing scams
   • Victims open 30 percent of the phishing emails
   • 73 percent of the Identity thefts are through phishing scams

   Therefore, the second-best secure computing tip we have for you is to avoid opening emails or logins pages on websites that look suspicious. Plus, don't click unusual links or open suspicious attachments open attachments that appear in emails, online ads, or tweets.

3. Practice Excellent Password Management Tactics

   People today have several accounts online such as email accounts, social networking accounts, accounts on various shopping websites, etc. Many users often take the shortcut. They reuse the same password for most of the accounts they use if not all. If you do the same, it is advisable to stop doing so right away. It may help you remember your passwords but can put you at a serious security risk.

   Using the same weak passwords for all accounts makes it easier for the cybercriminal to compromise all your accounts. Avoid the threat of losing your confidential information to a cyber attack by practicing excellent password management tactics. There are numerous ways to keep your password secure and hard to crack, for example:

   Use a password manager to create a strong and unique password for different accounts. There are many password manager programs available online such as LastPass, Keeper, and Bitwarden, to name a few. With these programs, you can ensure your passwords are safe and secure.

   • Never share your password with anyone
   • Never safe your password on public computers
   • Keep updating your passwords periodically for security reasons

   Keep a two-factor or multi-factor authentication. This approach provides an added level of security. If the hacker can guess the password, you will have an additional security measure in place to ensure that your account isn't breached.

4. Use Antivirus

   Although Windows 10 and 8 have Firewall built-in already. Make sure it is turned on. However, if you are using some other Windows version like Windows 7, make sure to install Firewall on your computer. This will keep your computer protected from malicious software.

5. Browse Safely

   Whenever you browse, avoid using websites that use potentially illicit content. This is because such websites can install malware on your computer unknowingly. Also, they can offer downloads that may contain malware. Once downloaded, it can make you vulnerable to security threats. One of the best ways to avoid and block malicious websites is to use modern browsers such as Microsoft Edge.

Contact us to learn more secure computing tips or take proper security measures to keep your business data and employees safe from cyber attacks. At BTS Technologies, we specialize in cybersecurity. We can provide you with the best tips and security measures to keep you, your personal information, and your business well-protected from potential threats and scams.

Get Started Here

Tags: antivirus, email, Microsoft, passwords, phishing, updates & upgrades, Windows

Posted in: Cyber Security