Malware protection is always needed
This is the basis for creating security for your devices. It all starts with a quality antivirus program, then choose only the best option. So, begin with a quality antivirus program to anticipate trouble and read reviews to make sure it fits your needs. This completely protects you from malware. With quality software, you can get rid of hacks on your system. Computer viruses, trojans, worms, spyware, insurance software damage your data. At first glance, they are hidden in harmless photos, videos, links, downloadable files, or free software. You should not click on unsuspecting things on the Internet. There is no such thing as a free lunch.
Data encryption
This is a necessary piece of advice not only for huge business companies. The encryption used to concern IT, specialists, and mathematicians. Note that Apple Mail's GPG for email greatly simplifies encryption, allowing you to sign emails with the OpenPGP standard. Although this program helps in many cases, it will not be able to protect you from government agencies online. John Noton of the Guardian recommends TrueCrypt.
You can also encrypt data on USB drives and seven cards. Such small things are easier to steal and obtain information, but if everything is carefully encrypted, the attacker will not be able to interpret the information.
Information backup
Storing information in cloud storage is much safer. Even if you did not save the materials when the Internet was turned off, nothing will disappear. You can also transfer the required personal information to cloud storage. Don't forget to delete old files from the cloud storage. If you lose information in one source, it is not a fact that it will disappear from all sites. Because nothing disappears without a trace on the Internet.
Read all the links carefully and better think twice before clicking them. You should take every email alert seriously. It is better to unsubscribe from suspicious mailings, which are also harmful as they take away your precious time.
Specifying geolocation on each site
At first glance, this is quite normal, but it is a real hole in the confidentiality and security of personal data. If you use an iPhone, you can select the Privacy option in Settings. If you use Android, then Settings - Programs, select Program Permissions. This will make it easier for you to keep track of which apps see your location, contacts, have microphone access, and more. Disable permissions where they don't make sense at all.
Just in case: no need to tell your insurance account number, bank account number, any personal information to anyone. When you need to verify documents, make sure the sites are official and that the information is completely confidential.
Unreadable hard drives
Sometimes you think that by deleting old hard drives, no one will use your information. This is a serious mistake. Before deleting, encrypt your data so that no one can read it. You should back up your data first, then perform the magnetic disk cleaning or disinfection by shredding disks or use the data erasing software. Do not leave old spare tapes.
Operating system update
Often users do not want to take it at all because at first glance it seems difficult. However, if you do not give enough time to update, it will be easier to become a target for viruses. Windows operating systems are updated every month, usually on Tuesdays. If you use another, make sure the update is on schedule. You can turn on the automatic software update feature, if available.
Strong password
Make sure your wireless network has a strong password. Unauthorized persons can sneak into your network and harm it. It is better to protect Wi-Fi and hide it from unwanted visitors. The password must contain letters, numbers, and symbols. There must be at least 8 of them. Each password must be unique. Don't repeat the mistakes of millions of people. An attacker could easily hack all sources of personal information without much effort.
For better protection, come up with passphrases, not just passwords. These may be questions that only you can answer, and then access the necessary personal information. For example, "What is my mother's maiden name?", "What is my cat's name", "Who is my favorite singer?".
The password needs to be changed from time to time, few people know about it. On average, this should be done every 90 days, and better often.
Turn off the computer
Disconnect your device from the network when you have finished using it. With Wi-Fi on all the time, hackers have access to your network and endless time to implement their insidious plans. Don't go to meet them and don't forget to turn off Wi-Fi at least at night and turn off your computer when you're not using it. You can use a firewall — network security device. Firewalls analyze all traffic consumed by the device and report the danger to you. Your IP address is almost like your home, personal space. You are unlikely to allow outsiders to enter without an invitation. So firewalls filter everything that comes from the outside to your devices.
Shadow people, phishing attacks, fraudulent companies, or fake security services are the dark side of the wonderful invention of mankind - the Internet. New technologies — this is certainly a good thing, but they should be used to their advantage. Information security is important for online businesses and ordinary Internet users. Make sure your protection against viruses is strong enough and use the Internet conveniently.