Keeping Devices And Data Safe With These Simple Steps

Features

Keeping Devices And Data Safe With These Simple Steps

Ransomware, botnets and phishing scams were at an all-time high in 2018 and attackers are taking every opportunity to steal data for their own gain. In 2018 alone, “More than 75 percent of phishing mails include malicious URLs to phishing sites. Other variations include malicious phishing attachments and links in attachments.” But there’s a lot you can do to protect yourself – including using the tips below and keeping proactive security features, like Windows 10 in S mode, Antivirus protection and auto-updates, turned on.

You can follow these easy best practices:

Beware of phishing scams. Don’t risk clicking on unfamiliar links, and carefully review notifications from banks to track potential damage to your accounts. Personalized emails that appear to be from a credit company can suggest an urgent need to act. If the email and link look the slightest bit suspicious, open a new window (don’t click the link), and go directly to the website or call the main phone number to check your status.
Always have a backup. To better safeguard your files, use a cloud storage source like OneDrive or GoogleDrive to back-up and protect data against ransomware attacks.
Be careful when using insecure Wi-Fi networks. Research has found that one in five consumers make online purchases over insecure Wi-Fi networks. If you are using public Wi-Fi networks, make sure your connection is encrypted and secure by looking out for the “lock” icon in the top left of the address bar and always double check that the address you are navigating to is what you expected. Many modern devices, now feature LTE built-in, which – when enabled with a data plan – offers a more secure experience for your online habits.
Don’t rely on passwords alone. When possible, always use multi-factor authentication for managing your logins and if youre using a Windows device use Windows Hello for easy and secure sign-in. They enable biometric authentications like face/fingerprint to quickly and safely log in across devices, apps and browsers without having to remember passwords.
Keep software current. Run a modern operating system, with the latest security and feature updates, in tandem with a reliable anti-virus protection.
Use privacy screens to stop “shoulder surfing.” Use devices with integrated privacy screens like the button you can find on some modern day notebooks like the ones in HP EliteBook that have keyboards that instantly makes the screen private, so those sitting nearby cannot see it. There are also apps that offer this feature.