How to protect personal information on your computer
With more people using the Internet every day, there has been a significant increase in threats from online criminals trying to steal personal information. When you use email, surf the web, and provide financial information to retailers, you need to make sure that no one can steal your information. Fortunately, technological improvements in computer security and the implementation of security precautions can drastically reduce the chances of your information being stolen.
The following tips are designed to help you protect the personal information on your computer:
o Purchase security software: It is important that you have the right security software to protect your computer from viruses, hackers, worms, spyware, spam, identity theft, and adware. A quality, reputable security software program will protect your computer from a variety of security risks. Some programs offer a combination of protection methods, while others offer only one security feature.
o Implement wireless security protection: If you access the Internet over a Wi-Fi network, make sure you have adequate protection against hackers. With wireless networks, radio waves travel into the surrounding area, so a hacker sitting nearby can access your connection and hack into your computer.
o Use a firewall: A firewall adds a security obstruction between a personal computer and the Internet. Helps prevent hackers from accessing your computer. It will block any suspicious and unauthorized entry into a computer system.
o Email Encryption – When you use email encryption, you reduce the chances of someone intercepting and accessing your information.
o Beware of Phishing Scams – Many online criminals will send scam emails and use scam websites to collect a person’s personal information. Never provide personal information to unknown companies. Confirm the site is legitimate by checking the Better Business Bureau or online sites that expose scam sites and emails. Buy products from sites that encrypt transaction payments. Payment Information Encryption will encrypt your personal and financial details after you submit the payment.
o Beware of certain free download programs: Some free download programs may contain harmful programs. They may allow the person sensing you to access your computer. Security software can prevent these programs from installing. Adware and spyware are programs that can contain these malicious programs.
o Backup Information: Back up and store your information in case your security barrier is breached so you don’t lose important information. Save it to a CD or an external hard drive.
o System Security Settings: Set your browser or operating system to manage pop-ups, delete cookies, and block specific websites.
o Change passwords regularly – Change your passwords at least every 30 days to reduce the chance of a hacker accessing your personal and financial information online.
o Monitor your credit report: You should periodically check the history of your credit report. This will let you know if someone has been using your financial information.
When you use the Internet to shop, bank, email, and send instant messages, suspicious people may try to access your computer to steal your information. Using the latest security software and practicing safe security practices will reduce the chance of your personal information being stolen and used for illegal purposes.