If you use a computer or mobile device, you are exposed to threats and malware. Therefore, it is strongly advised to take protective measures to safeguard your data.
We invite you to discover the top steps that should protect your devices from malware and allow you to ensure their longevity.
1. Use a firewall:
A computer firewall is a software that filters incoming and outcoming data of a device and determines whether that data is dangerous or not. A firewall thus protects the computer from external intrusions and prevents access to illegal sites.
A firewall is a software that protects your network by identifying and blocking unwanted and potentially dangerous traffic. Windows has a built-in firewall enabled by default on its computers. On Mac, a firewall is disabled by default but can easily be enabled from the system preferences. Also, there are additional options that you can download from the internet.
2. Use antivirus:
The purpose of anti-virus is to protect your computer by finding and removing viruses. For this purpose, an anti-virus can scan documents that may contain viruses. It is advisable to use an antivirus and a firewall, the two being complementary. An antivirus also allows you to clean your computer of all traces of dishonest use (spyware, attack software, etc.).
In addition, make sure your anti-virus program has a spyware protection feature. Not all antiviruses have this feature and you may need another extra program. Spyware is a type of malware (malicious software) that, as its name suggests, spies on the information on our computer and extracts it without our consent.
3. Update your operating system regularly:
The OS is the heart of your system. It may be subject to security vulnerabilities and updating it corrects them. We advise you to update your operating system at least once a month or enable automatic updates. Updating is also a way to use the latest operating system available, which is the most secure.
4. Use strong passwords:
It is important to have a strong password to protect your computer. A strong password can consist of several words.
A good practice is to use upper and lower-case words, numbers, and symbols. It is better to use words that are not related to your private life.
5. Secure your Wi-Fi connection:
To use your Wi-Fi connection, you need to secure your network using a password and an access code.
If you have already configured your Wi-Fi connection, you can secure it by clicking on the connection settings, at the top right. You can also ensure that the details are protected by placing a password on your network.
Beware of fake download buttons: it is essential not to fall into traps as simple as this one. In the same way, we must avoid all kinds of pop-ups or emerging windows that suggest we click on suspicious links or attachments. Remember: think before you click.
Besides, it is highly recommended to avoid public networks. If we are in a coffee shop, the library, or an airport, we must be especially careful when connecting to their wi-fi (or those networks that seem to be authorized). Never trust networks without a password or encryption.
6. Do not click on attachments or suspicious links in your emails:
Viruses are usually installed by clicking on a link in an email or by opening an attachment. Avoid clicking on suspicious attachments or links in your emails. If you do not know the sender of the email, do not open the email at all.
Before clicking on any suspicious links, it is advisable to check the sender’s identity on Nuwber. This site provides all the essential details of the person such as email address, contact numbers, home address, work history, social links, and much more.
7. Use parental control features:
Children often need a computer to do their homework and to play. To protect children from the dangers of the Net and safeguard your computers, there are parental control functions.
Parental control features allow you to limit access to websites, games, and media files, such as videos and photos. This also avoids the download of corrupted and therefore potentially dangerous files for your computer.
8. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network):
VPNs offer a security and privacy solution for internet and telecommunications users who use a laptop and roam in unsecured areas.
VPNs allow you to browse the Internet safely, even when your computers are connected to unsecured WiFi networks (airports, train stations, trains, etc.). It also changes your IP address, allowing you to virtually change your city.
9. Protect your laptop against drops, vibrations, and scratches:
A laptop is a computer that you can carry with you and is susceptible to theft or damage during transport. So, equip your laptop with a hard shell and place it in a suitable carrying case to protect it from shocks, vibrations, and scratches.
10. Use data backup and restore software:
Backup software can be free or paid. It is generally advisable to use professional backup software which avoids the problems found in free backup software.
This type of software keeps important data on a secondary data source, such as a USB flash drive, external hard drive, or built-in hard drive in a laptop. If your laptop is damaged, you can use the backup software to recover your data from the secondary data source.
Conclusion:
There are many things you can do to protect your devices from malware. The simple steps above uncover several of those. Follow them to keep your mobiles and computers protected.