In the 21 century, everything is digital and almost every part of business dealings is now done on computers or laptops.
The digital revolution and global connectivity over the past years have given birth to a new business prospect that is remote working and freelancing. This means that you can earn money while not being physically present in the office and also be paid for it.
However, freelancers are more prone to getting their computers hacked by viruses that go around because they are online almost always. Losing data to viruses and hackers can mean huge losses.
So here are a few tips that will make you safe when you are online.
1. Allow the software to be automatically updated
No software is perfect; hence the developers are always updating their software and programs to close security holes as they are being discovered.
Hence you should always keep
your automatic updates tab on. It can be a bit irritating when the computer
switches of after an update and when the update takes time to be completed. But
with security issues out there, it is in users’ best interest to always keep
the updates automatically downloaded.
2. Download apps that help you to be protected when online
The Internet makes your computer vulnerable and you can face threats like being tracked, phishing or bullying by hackers. These threats may not ever go away so to make yourself secure you can make use of apps.
For instance, Webroot app will help protect your device in case of a cyber-attack. Other than that if your device is being used by your child you can put a parental control phone tracker app like FamiSafe which will ensure safe online surfing for them.
3. Use anti-malware and anti-virus software
There is a lot of antivirus and anti-malware software out there. Choosing one can be an issue as every other will suggest to you different ‘best software’. You can use any even simple and free ones. If you don’t want to download one then you can use Windows Defender which is built-in, it is free and it knows the system deeply. Also, it won’t slow down or affect the performance of your device in any way.
4. Use a different password for each site
Now, this is one thing which has been said thousand times over. If you use one password for all sites and if one of those sites gets hacked, then you have given the hacker access to all your accounts. Hence keep a unique password for all sites and if you can’t seem to remember them you can use password managing apps.
5. Don’t click on random links
When someone is surfing they are sure to find ads pop up which are designed to make the onlookers click. The offers are so lucrative that will convince you to click – but wait don’t this could lead to a virus entering your computer. Also never open any suspicious emails for which you haven’t signed up, it is common that you can get hacked. Always see if the links are legitimate even if you are checking on a new website.
These are basic security hacks that everyone should be aware of. You can easily do this even if you are not a computer expert. These simple behavior adjustments will take you a long way in being secure online.