Take care of your banking, check your email or just surf the internet, the computer has made our lives a lot easier. Unfortunately, with the popularity of the computer, online crime has also increased. It is therefore important to know how to protect your computer. In this blog you will find useful tips to use your computer safely.
Prevent viruses on your computer or other devices
A virus is a program that ensures that your computer no longer does what you want or even does not start at all. Viruses are often spread through emails with harmless-looking attachments. By installing a virus scanner and regularly scanning your computer, you prevent a lot of trouble. An antivirus program is often part of a complete security package that continuously monitors your entire computer.
Keep your computer up to date
Criminals often use the vulnerabilities in older versions of an operating system to gain access to your computer. Therefore, keep your operating system up to date by having updates installed automatically. For example, look on the websites of Windows and Mac OS x how to set this up. In addition to the operating system, it is also important that you keep the other software on your computer up-to-date, such as your browser, security software or programs such as Flash, Java and Quicktime. For events you can also rent a laptop or rent a macbook with an active antivirus program and a complete security package, instead of installing a lot of monthly programs and active subscriptions.
Secure online banking
When it comes to banking, you naturally want to work safely. This is often a matter of paying close attention and using common sense. For example, check whether the correct address (URL) of the bank is in the address bar of your browser and whether the URL starts with HTTPS and a closed lock. In addition, it is recommended not to use internet banking via WiFi. This makes it easier for cybercriminals to retrieve your data. It is therefore recommended that you carry out your online transactions via a wired connection or the bank’s mobile app. On a lot of websites you can find more tips and rules about safe internet banking. If you are unsure about security, stop banking and contact the bank.
The key to a strong password:
Did you know that only one in three Dutch people regularly changes their password? Since a password protects your private data, it is important to handle it carefully. The following tips can help you create a strong password:
– Choose a completely random password and don’t use names or important dates
– Don’t use the same password for every website
– Make sure your password is at least 8 characters long
– Use a combination of lowercase, uppercase, numbers and special characters
– Change your passwords regularly.
Be careful with unexpected emails
Almost everyone has an email address these days, but unfortunately it is widely abused by cybercriminals. For example, they send viruses with random email addresses to your inbox. To avoid this trouble, it is recommended to delete emails from unknown recipients, never open unknown attachments or links, never pass on your personal or bank details and do not respond to spam or phishing emails.