Whenever you browse the Internet, enter a website or use any platform such as Facebook or YouTube, you can have security problems if you make certain mistakes. In this article we are going to talk about the top 10 that you should avoid to keep your computer protected. This will help you protect your data, prevent malware and the system from starting to go wrong.
10 mistakes to avoid to protect your computer
If you want to avoid getting a virus or stealing your passwords, it is essential to know what the main errors are when browsing. If you avoid them, you will be much better protected. The objective is to navigate safely, reduce the risk that they can scam us or compromise in some way the proper functioning.
Have an outdated computer
The first mistake is surfing the Internet with outdated equipment . This can be serious, since a simple vulnerability can allow an intruder to break into the computer. There are many bugs that occur thanks to the updates and patches that are periodically released for all types of systems.
Keep in mind that we are not only talking about updating the operating system itself, which is important, but also any program that you use connected to the Internet. There may also be vulnerabilities in the network card drivers.
Not using a good antivirus
Of course, it is essential to have security programs . Surfing the net without protection can mean the entry of malware and not have any defensive barrier to protect us and avoid problems. Always install a good antivirus, such as Windows Defender or Avast itself, for example.
However, there is not only antivirus as a protection measure. Also consider the possibility of installing a firewall, for example. They are compatible and can come in very handy to prevent cyber attacks.
Use an insecure browser
The browser is key in our day to day. It is what we use to enter web pages, such as this article, do a Google search, etc. There are many options available and our advice is to use one that is guaranteed, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Avoid browsers that may be a problem.
But using a secure browser also means that we will have it protected. Do not use a program loaded with plugins that may be a scam. Always check your security settings and don’t make mistakes.
Fall for scams
On the other hand, one of the main causes of having problems when browsing is falling for scams . There are many scams that you can come across while browsing. For example, Phishing pages, which only want you to enter your data and passwords and steal them. Also sites where they invite you to click on a link and what you are actually going to get is to download malware.
To avoid these scams, common sense is essential. It is key to avoid clicking on links that we do not know for sure if they are reliable or not, downloading files that may be false, etc.
Install dangerous programs
This point is important. It is one of the errors with which your computer could be hacked . Never install programs if you have not downloaded them from official sites. This is exactly where cybercriminals may have a chance to sneak malware into you without you even knowing. For example, downloading a pirted program can be very dangerous.
The best thing is that you go to the official website of that application. You can also use collateral app stores, where they will go through a leak before you download and install them.
Entering public networks without protection
If you are going to navigate through a public network , such as the Wi-Fi of an airport, shopping center or any cafeteria, it is important that you take precautions. Those wireless networks could have been created by an attacker to steal your data. It does not mean that this restaurant has created a Wi-Fi to scam, but a cybercriminal that makes us believe that we are connected to the restaurant’s network but in reality we are not.
It is best that you connect through a VPN. This will help you encrypt the connection and prevent your data from being leaked while browsing. There are many options available, you just have to make sure that you use a reliable one.
Not using good passwords
Of course, having everything well protected by passwords is essential. Do not browse the Internet with your accounts unprotected or with weak passwords. For example, social media accounts, email or any other online service you use must always be fully protected.
A good key is one that is completely random, does not have personal data that can be related to you and also you do not use it elsewhere. For example, you can change the Windows password and thus enhance security.
Leak personal information
In this case we are also facing a common sense error, but it is very present. For example, you can leak personal information simply by posting certain information in an open forum on the Internet or by posting a comment on a website. Prevent, for example, your email address from being public.
By preventing your information from being openly available online, you can avoid the risk of an attacker using it to launch phishing attacks and other threats.
Host unprotected content
When you use the cloud, it is imperative that you use warranty services. You are going to host content that may be important documents or files that put your security or that of a third party at risk. Always use platforms that are safe , that have a good reputation.
As an added option, you can always encrypt those files before uploading them to the network. You can create an extra layer of protection so you don’t have problems.
Don’t check everything
Finally, an error it generates is not checking everything very well. We are talking, for example, about not checking if the message that comes to you by mail is false or not, if the program you are going to install is guaranteed or if you really have an updated browser. Always check everything so you don’t have problems when surfing the net.
By review we also mean taking certain actions from time to time. You can change the passwords of your social networks or email periodically and thus reduce the risk.
In short, these are the 10 errors that you should avoid so that your PC is not hacked. It is essential that you navigate safely on the web, keep everything updated and avoid making mistakes that could become a problem for your day to day.