File photo. (REUTERS/Kacper Pempel)
Cybercriminals are out in full force looking for ways to steal your data. It’s worth money to them. That’s why we’ve seen a massive uptick in the number of data breaches over the past few years.
Unfortunately, most folks don’t know they’ve been hacked until it’s too late. So you don’t fall into that category, do one thing right now. Click here to see if your email address has been hacked or stolen.
With cybercrime so rampant, you need to be proactive about protecting yourself. To help you out, here are some things I do to keep hackers and scammers at bay.
1. Keep everything updated
First and foremost, it’s vital to install updates as soon as you can, especially if they fix security bugs. Keep all your apps, smart appliances, and gadgets updated with the latest patches and firmware too.
The FBI recently issued a warning to anyone who owns a router. You need to reboot it. I’m not convinced that’s enough to protect your files and network. You really should take a few extra steps. Click here for the instructions on my site.
If hackers can find a flaw in a program or operating system, they can actively use it to attack computers until it gets patched.
2. Secure your devices already
Surprisingly, at least one-third of smartphone users don’t bother to use even the simplest four-digit passcode to secure their gadgets. There are many ways to lock and unlock our phones, computers, and tablets -- face scans, thumbprints, irises, passcodes, patterns, and more.
Just set it up. It’s a minor inconvenience that can save you a huge headache later.
3. Make sure your firewall is working
Even if hackers manage to know your computer’s location and IP address, the firewall keeps them from accessing your system and your network. Not sure if you have a firewall in place? Newer Windows and Mac systems have built-in software firewalls for configuring your outgoing and incoming internet ports.
Wonder if your firewall is actually working? Click here for a free test.
4. Encrypt your drive
An extra layer of security you can employ is disk encryption. With encryption, your data will be converted into unreadable code that can only be deciphered with a specific key or password.
PC users can enable Windows’ built-in encryption tool BitLocker. BitLocker is available to anyone with a machine running Windows Vista or 7 Ultimate, Windows Vista or 7 Enterprise, Windows 8.1 Pro, Windows 8.1 Enterprise, or Windows 10 Pro.
Macs have their own built-in disk encrypting tool too called FileVault. Similar to BitLocker, it helps prevent unauthorized access to your data and adds an extra layer of security in case your computer is stolen or lost.
5. Don’t trust public Wi-Fi
Crooks use public Wi-Fi to spy on unsuspecting users who join the network. Or, sometimes they even create “honeypot” networks, which are fake networks designed to steal your information.
If you’re not careful, cybercriminals at your local cafe can walk away with your name, address, Social Security number, email address, and your usernames and passwords.
This is why it’s critical that you use a virtual private network (VPN) when in public. It’s a good idea to use one at home, too. With a VPN, your gadget’s IP address is hidden from websites and services that you visit, and you’re able to browse anonymously.
6. Completely wipe old devices that you’re getting rid of
Just like a real trash can, the contents of your PC’s Recycle Bin or Mac’s Trash Can are only cleared out when you empty them. Using the same analogy, if it’s been a while since you’ve emptied them, there’s a treasure trove of documents and items for someone to snoop through.
If you want to get serious about your security, you need to erase sensitive data for good. Use software tools like Eraser or Blank and Secure for Windows and Secure Delete - File Shredder for Macs.
Favorite cross-platform tool free CCleaner for PCs and Macs also has an option for secure deletion of files.
Click here to learn how to delete data forever on your PC or Mac safely.
7. Remember strong, unique passwords
Your password is the first line of defense. You want to make sure you set up a secure, unique password for every account.
Click here for a simple trick to creating a robust and easy-to-remember password. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with passwords or want to develop harder passwords, consider using a password manager.
A password manager is a program that can store and manage your passwords for each app, service, and site that you use. It’s like a locked safe (or a vault) for all your credentials, tightly secured with your key.
8. Use two-factor authentication
Two-factor identification is a fancy name for adding an extra verification step to the login process of your most critical accounts. Instead of just providing your username or password to log in to an account, a secondary form of verification is required to prove your identity.
The most popular form of 2FA right now is a unique one-time code that’s texted to your smartphone. Not sure what it means? Click here to read more about two-factor authentication.
9. Use the guest network option
Friends and family always want to use your Wi-Fi. They ask politely, phone in hand because they hate to burn up their data plans when they can use your connection. Instead of handing them your real password, use your router’s “Guest Network.”
This feature lets you share your internet connection with your guests while keeping them off your primary network, preventing them from seeing your shared files and services. To avoid confusion with your primary network, set up your guest network with a different network name (SSID) and password.
Click here to learn more ways to keep strangers off your Wi-Fi network and out of your files.
10. Pick the right account type
When you first set up a computer, you create at least one user account. If you have several people using a computer, you can create an account for each one.
User accounts are critical because they separate your files, and sometimes programs. This is good for privacy and security, as long as each account has its own password.
However, what many people don’t know is that there are multiple types of accounts you can create. The two major ones are “administrator” and “standard.”
You’ll want to check your user accounts right away and change any administrator accounts to standard accounts. Click here for step-by-step instructions. If you’re running a Mac, here are some guidelines for you.
What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call my national radio show and click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to the Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet or computer. From buying advice to digital life issues, click here for my free podcasts.
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Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.
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