How To Protect Your Computer From Cyber Crimes

TIPS TO PROTECT COMPUTER FROM CYBER-CRIMES

Cyber-crimes refer to illegal activities that committed through the use of a computer and the Internet.

There are various forms of cyber-crime like Spamming i.e. unwanted product advertisements, illegal reproduction and distribution of software applications, games, movies and audio CDs, Hacking, Phishing, Spoofing etc.


Some tips to protect your computer from cyber-crimes:

Anti-virus Software
Anti-virus software prevents you from hackers. Try to antivirus software updated to keep your system safe. It is advised to scan your system periodically by antivirus software.

Installing Firewall
Firewall prevents malicious threats before it enters your computer. It filters all information coming through the internet to your system. All messages leaving and entering your system passes through a firewall which checks the unauthorized content.

Avoid Transactions on Public computers
There is a possibility of cyber-attacks at cyber cafes. So try to avoid transactions process in these areas. Also don’t share your computer with unknown people

Precaution for Email Attachments
It is advisable, not to open email attachments if sent from unknown entities. If it is necessary to open an email attachment, then check for virus scanning first. If your email is automatically downloading and opening different attachments, then check your settings to disable this feature.

Monitor your Investments
Regularly check your online accounts for any unusual activity. Report unauthorized transactions immediately.

Avoid Third-party Applications
Third-party applications provide entertainment, but be careful while deciding which applications to enable. Avoid those which seem suspicious, and you should modify your system settings to limit the amount of information, the applications can access.

Threats from Downloadable Files
You should avoid downloading files from untrusted sites. Always check for security certificate of unknown websites. If you download from a website, before opening it, you have to scan it manually.

Make sure that your Transactions are Encrypted
Attackers intercept the information sent from a system and do unauthorized activities. Encapsulation or Encryption prevents attackers from being able to view the information.

Updating of Software
Many software providers send automatic updates. So we have to enable auto-updating option during installation of software. It will install software patches to protect your system from attackers.

Never Click on Links in Emails
If you get an email regarding promotional offers and you have to check this offer, and then never go to that particular site through the links provided in that mail, rather go directly to the site.

Selection of smart and strong Passwords
Try to select such passwords that will be difficult for attackers to guess and hack your system. So always use different passwords for different programs and the devices. You shouldn’t have to enable your system to remember passwords. Always create smart passwords by incorporating capital letters, numbers and special characters and using more than six characters.

Never give out Personal info
Never ever give out your personal information like name, address, phone no, password etc. to any website. You should ask the Tele caller about their name and call back number. If fully satisfied, then you have to represent your details or you can independently contact the company directly to verify this request. Also don’t store your card details in websites.

Safe Online Shopping
While ordering via online stores, make sure the website uses secure technology. Verify web address beginning with HTTP or https. Before entering card details always ensure that locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is showing in your Browser.

Ignore Pop-ups
Pop-ups can contain malicious software. So always ignore pop-ups offering things.

Back-up
It is really necessary to back up your private database/Critical data in flash drives or any other computer. If any emergency case arises because of cyber-attack, then you can use it again.

Secure Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi sometimes not secure way. So, don’t open your work email and bank statement while using public Wi-Fi.

Don’t spread your work Email Address
Work Email addresses are your personal entity. It shouldn’t be circulated everywhere like during payments of Hotel Bills, unknown surveying websites etc. Some companies often use this Email addresses to keep track of their customers and the customers’ preferences. Sometimes these databases are shared with other companies, which cause unsubscribed messages in your email.

Use different Security Questions
Don’t use same security questions frequently. It may be used by hackers to your personal account fraudulent activity.

Don’t Spam other People
Be a responsible and thoughtful user. Be selective with the messages you redistribute. Don’t forward bulk messages to your friends.

Don’t believe
Don’t believe everything in online platforms. Users may post false or misleading information about various topics. Take appropriate precautions. Firstly investigate or verify the authenticity of any information before taking any future course of action.

Use Bluetooth in Hidden Mode
The hidden mode of Bluetooth prevents other Bluetooth devices to recognize your device. You can use your Bluetooth efficiently in hidden mode by pairing with other devices.