Safeguard the Information on Your Computer
November 5, 2009 – 6:53 pm
It can be easy to forget about all of the personal and maybe even business data you store on your computer. People shouldn’t have free access to this information, because you might have your credit card numbers or even social security number somewhere on your desktop or laptop. Safeguarding this data requires that you setup some security features as well as monitor your computer.
- Viruses such as Trojan horses can steal or change the existing data on your computer, which is why it’s beneficial to maintain those anti-virus and firewall software. Without these methods of protection, your computer is susceptible to hackers.
- Spyware and adware can also be a mode for hackers to tap into your computer. A way to prevent these hidden software programs is to run a spyware scan regularly.
- Always update your software when you’re given the option. Some updates include patches that fix areas of weak security, so set your computer to automatically update.
- Check your computer settings and adjust the level of security for your Internet browser so it’s high.
- Monitor your software programs and look out for unused ones. Some might be vulnerable to attack, and why keep them if you don’t ever use them?
- Create a username and password for each person who accesses the computer. This will prevent someone from accidentally or purposefully accessing or altering your files.
- Set boundaries and guidelines for the computer if you have multiple users. This is especially important for children who might give out personal information freely without realizing the consequence.
- Password protect all confidential and personal information, so it doesn’t get into the wrong hands. Choose a password with letters and numbers that would be too hard for someone to guess.
- Learn how to erase sensitive files properly. Deleting the file from your desktop doesn’t mean that it’s gone forever. You have to erase all traces of sensitive files.
- If you use your computer for work-related purposes, make sure you follow the corporation’s policies and guidelines for handling and storing company, consumer or patient data.
These will prevent hackers from gaining access to sensitive information. It also helps to organize your digital files and separate personal from business, so you can properly password protect them. If you use a jump drive, you can also password protect this information, but you should still have a safe keeping place for it.
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