While for most of us the worst won’t happen, daily we read about cyber hacks that target vulnerable systems and breach confidential data. For most this is unlikely to happen whether by the sheer scale of probability or that fact that we are super vigilant with our online data.
However careful we are there are still ways we can improve and in an age of interconnected devices and data flowing freely to and from our home-based technology, it might just be time to have an audit of your online security. We take a look at why firewalls are not enough and how you can improve your safety online.
Image from Pexels
Updates are everything
Where you have devices that have their own operating systems, whether that’s a smartphone, Mac or Windows computer always run the updates. They contain small but crucial improvements that not only help your device to run more smoothly but that also protect against it against destructive viruses.
Only open what you can trust
That weird link that doesn’t look quite right? Leave it well alone and delete, delete, delete. One of the easiest ways for hackers to break into your system is through unsolicited emails carrying viruses. Just don’t risk it.
With pop-ups too as well as being annoying there is the risk of infection so make sure that your pop-up blocker is up and running across all your PCs and laptops.
Change passwords
Make use of that suggested password option when you log into new websites and where you have existing passwords that haven’t been changed for a while, make sure that you update them and create something strong and impossible to guess. A simple action that will ensure your privacy is made paramount.
Clear cache
As your device holds data and cookies on all the websites you visit now and again it’s good to clear the cache. This isn’t just a way of freeing up some space it also allows your computer to work faster and therefore be more efficient in all its operations and functions.
Don’t forget phones
With so many of our devices interconnected, thanks to companies such as Sylvania Connected Solutions, it’s vital to make sure that every branch of your network is protected.
Always make sure that you have a password protected screen up and running and if you have fingerprint technology to gain access to your device, use it. Security and antivirus apps abound, so make sure that you have something extra to help protect your device. Consider too installing a PIN lock for your SIM, so if your phone is stolen the SIM becomes worthless to the thief.
There are certainly many threats out there against our home-based and mobile technology, but the ever-evolving security solutions make it possible to beef up your devices to the highest possible standards, protecting you and your family from unwanted intrusions and viruses that seek to steal your data and wreak havoc with your network. So, plan for the worst and hope for the best and you’ll be safe as houses.
