Not everyone has adapted to the use of computers with excitement or joy. There are quite a few people who don’t trust computers to do the job they’re supposed to do, but have to use them anyway. Their distrust usually stems from being caught up in situations where files were stolen, the computer got hacked, or fraud was perpetrated. The good news for the distrustful is that it’s possible to stop problems from happening even before the information leaves the computer. Following are three tips to help you do just that.
Install Only the Best Anti-Virus Software
Image via Flickr by Blogtrepreneur
Not all anti-virus programs are created equal. What is the most popular may not be the best. Instead of relying on a popularity contest to find anti-virus software, do some reading. Less well-known programs like AVG and Webroot do a good job of keeping a computer protected, won’t bog down the system operation through constant use of the hard drive and RAM, and is always evolving to meet new threats.
Make Strong Passwords
Four-digit or numbered passwords just aren’t safe. Not that they ever were, but many people used them because they were easy to remember. You could go for more digits, but if they’re in a logical sequence, such as a birthday, they’re still easily guessed. What you want to do is to make it as hard as possible for anyone to guess, much less hack at, your password choice.
The strongest kind of password is one that uses upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and a symbol. Use any combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and whichever symbol you like. Just make sure that you use all three in the same password. It’s true that it’s a little annoying to make this type of password, but it’s effective. And, you don’t have to keep changing them, either. Studies show that regular changing of a password makes them less secure, not more.
Use Cloud Access Security Brokers
It’s inevitable that you’re going to use the cloud at some point. But instead of worrying about the data you’re uploading, use a cloud access security broker (CASB). The CASB locks down your information before it ever leaves your computer, then transmits it through the HTTPS protocol. Your files get to the cloud server unmolested by a hacker due to this kind of security. Even if the hacker managed to download your transmission, they get nothing useful because they don’t have the encryption keys for unlocking the information. Basically it’s a waste of time for the hacker to make an attempt at de-encrypting your information. It’s OK to breathe easy when using a CASB.
These are the basics of keeping your computer and sensitive information under lock and key. Engaging in these practices makes you less of an inviting target for a hacker. They’ll move on from your computer and go find someone else who’s not nearly as careful. In the meantime, you can use a computer without the concern of something going wrong.
