5 common mistakes that can land you and your PC in a lot of trouble.
We all want to protect our PCs and our information. However, we all slip up sometimes. Below are the top five security mistakes that computer users commonly make. These mistakes lead to identity theft, data loss, malware infections or other security problems.
Not updating your system and software: Microsoft and software companies are always releasing updates. It might seem like a hassle to accept these updates – but you definitely should. They can contain important security patches to cover up vulnerabilities in your Windows operating system, web browsers like Internet Explorer or Chrome, or popular programs such as Acrobat Reader, Flash and Java. If you are unsure if you have the latest version of a program, check its official website. It is also important that your security solution, such as ParetoLogic Anti-Virus PLUS or XoftSpySE Anti-Spyware, updates its database regularly.
Unsafe practices because you have security software: Even if you have anti-virus or anti-spyware products, you still need to be careful about what you are doing online. You should not:
Click on links or attachments in emails from people you do not know or if the message doesn’t look like what they typically send.
Download applications or files from anonymous sources
Use links in messages that claim they are from your bank or credit card company. These often can be part of a phishing scam where you are sent to a page that might look legit but exists to steal your credentials. It is better to navigate to what you need on your financial institution’s web page.
Visit a website that appears shady. If you end up on one you are unsure of, close out of it by clicking the «X» instead of using the back button.
Poor password protection: Some people write their personal or company passwords on a sticky note. If someone is alone in your computer area, they could gain access to important information and data. Hackers can even gain access to your data from afar if you choose poor passwords.
Not being careful while using social networking sites: Many people feel quite at home on popular sites such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Just because your friends are there, that doesn’t mean these are safe places. You need to be careful about what you click on (links can take you to malware or phishing sites) and what you say. Info you post on these sites could lead to identity theft or targeted phishing attacks. Use privacy settings on Facebook and other sites to restrict what everyone, including acquaintances and friends of friends, can see.
Altering security settings: The settings on your computer, browser and security settings are there to protect you. You should be very cautious about changing them. For example, changing your web browser settings to lessen the search restrictions might cause you to click on a malicious site or, if you don’t change them back and share a computer, lead the next user down a dangerous path. If you find your security software slows you down when playing games online or doing processor-intensive tasks, you can compromise and use ParetoLogic Anti-Virus PLUS’ «Game Mode.»
Everyone can make a mistake. When it comes to computer security, some thought and diligence can often keep you protected.
by Robin Wark
