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5 Ways to Prevent Getting #hacked
With so much of our lives on our devices and online now, it has become increasingly important to ensure that your data is protected and secure. Whether you own a business with sensitive data or are simply buying something online, it is crucial to take steps to make sure you are protecting your personal information. It is easy to become lax on #CyberSecurity, and a simple mistake could cost you more than you think.
While hackers are always finding new ways in trying to get into your data, there are still ways to ensure you are safe online. Education is key, and Dallas Network Services engineers and account managers have provided their expert advice on how to stay protected. By keeping these tips in mind, you can prevent making a simple mistake that could cost you thousands in data recovery and the precious time in recovering from an attack.
1. Anti-virus is just the start
Most people know having an anti-virus software installed on their computers is essential, but it actually only is just the start in making sure your computer is safe. Jacob Luckie, Engineer for Dallas Network Services, says that “even the best anti-virus software can’t do it all. They can block malicious items and regularly check for infection points, but there’s still things that can get past them.” The truth is that some things can get past anti-virus software, and human error is a cause of letting is pass. He recommends having anti-Malware software, secured web browsers, physical firewalls, and ongoing backups in addition to an anti-virus program for maximum security for your network and data.
2. Pay attention online
While browsing online, you may think you’re on the correct website because it looks familiar like nothing is wrong, but there are fraudulent websites that use very similar URLs and interfaces in order to lure unsuspecting users in. Putting your sensitive information into these websites can compromise your data. There are ways to make sure you are on the correct website, however. Account Manager Adam Currey says that “the best way to ensure that you are not on a fraudulent website is to check the address bar at the top of the screen. Also checking the spelling of the company name and the logo as these will sometimes be changed to avoid copyright infringement issues with the actual website.” He also suggests having an ad-blocker that would prevent you from clicking on an advertisement to a fake website.
3. Use different passwords
It may be difficult to remember complicated passwords, but it is more crucial thank you might think. Using different passwords instead of the same one for every account may seem like a nuisance, but it can be one of the most efficient ways to protect yourself. Senior Account Manager Stewart Loucks suggests that “it’s best to exceed six characters and have a number character and a special character in it. Gone are the days of using just password or even one of your kid’s or pet’ names. A targeted hacker could often figure those out quicker than you may think just by watching your social media.” He also pointed out if you reuse passwords, then hackers can easily get access to all your accounts. Today, there are several tools to help manage passwords.
4. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi
While using a public Wi-Fi network is convenient and sometimes necessary, it can be potentially dangerous in compromising any sensitive information. If you must use it, there are still ways to ensure that your data is safe while connected to it. Account Manager Jimmy Faryewicz suggests that “your laptop should have good local security (such as a firewall, antivirus, and anti-malware protection) and you must use a secured VPN connection. VPNs mask and encrypt your web traffic so it cannot be easily intercepted by malicious third parties on the public network.”
5. Keep up with maintenance on your computer
The pop-ups on your computer about different updates may seem not seem critical to do right away, but they may actually help you stay protected. Software and computers are constantly staying updated in order to provide the highest level of functionality, and this includes security. Network Engineer David Armstrong suggests that you “ensure updates are ran on a regular basis.” He also recommends to turn your computer off when not in use for an extra level of security.
Anyone can be a target of hacking, so keeping yourself informed and educated is by far the best way to keep your data safe. Following this advice from our security experts can help you and your business stay protected. For more advise and tips Visit our Blog on www.dallasnetworkservices.com or our other social media pages. #DontGetHacked