What can you do if your computer goes dark? Panic? Do not panic! Do you want to shut down your computer? Scream? Maintaining your computer’s health requires collaboration, even if you are an expert. This requires both your efforts and the support of people who have more technical skills than you, such as friends or professionals like the “Geek Squad.”
Be proactive, regardless of whether you decide to hire a professional or do it yourself. If you suspect that your computer is infected, take immediate action. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
What can you do to keep your computer safe and healthy
Hard to guess passwords. They have at least eight characters and can include numbers, lowercase letters, capital letters, and special symbols. Your password should be something you can remember but not one you associate with your name or birthday. Use a sentence you will remember. Example: Ihave2cats! Use different passwords for different accounts.
Make sure you have a firewall
Your firewall is the first step to keeping intruders out of your computer. By default, your computer’s firewall will be enabled.
Anti-malware software is recommended
Install and use reliable anti-malware software to block viruses and Spyware from your computer. For the best anti-malware software, consult the experts. Make sure to keep your anti-spyware software up-to-date and that you scan your computer every day. You can also avoid Spyware by not clicking on suspicious links and popup windows.
Be suspicious of attachments and emails that are not expected
You should not open any email attachments that you don’t expect, even if it is from a friend. You could be infected by viruses from a friend’s computer.
Download security updates regularly
Hackers will not be able to access your data if you have security patches and updates for your operating system.
Make sure it is up-to-date and that you scan for viruses every day.
Be aware of the potential dangers associated with file sharing
Sharing music and movies with your computer can make it vulnerable to hackers! File-sharing programs should not be used to gain access to your computer.
Take a backup of your most important files
Make a habit of backing your computer up regularly. There are many options. You can use an external hard drive, a flash drive, and/or cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive. Backups of your computer will ensure that your files are available in case of a hard drive failure or any other unplanned event.
When you are not using your computer, turn it off
It is safer to turn off your computer when it isn’t in use. This prevents hackers’ access to your computer and keeps it from overheating.
Your computer could still be infected by malware and hackers, no matter how vigilant you are. It is essential to be alert and prepared to take appropriate action if your computer becomes infected.
Definitions
Adware is Spyware that marketers and advertisers use.
Antivirus software: A software program or set of software programs designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software such as trojans and worms.
Computer Attack: Any operation that is carried out over the Internet to degrade or disrupt information on a computer system or network.
Computer virus: A software program that causes damage to your computer.
Attachment: An attachment that is attached to an email message.
A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that acts as a firewall between a computer or network and the Internet, preventing unwanted access.
Internet: A global network of interconnected computer networks which connects billions of computers worldwide.
Malware is a computer program that attempts to infiltrate or harm a computer infected with malware. Spyware and computer viruses are two of the most prevalent types of malware.
Password A sequence of unspaced characters that is used to verify that the computer user who requests access to a computer network is that user.
Spyware, This type of malicious software installs itself on your computer and secretly sends information about your PC’s use to a third party.
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