In this day and age, you need to keep your computer and personal information safe. Hackers are out there and we all know that.  They will take your information and steal your identity.  Bank accounts, email, online shopping need to be kept safe at all times.  Changes to your passwords every 6 months aren’t mandatory, but we strongly recommended it.

7 Tips for Protecting your Computer

Protecting your computer from viruses and other threats isn’t difficult, but you must be diligent. Here are 7 tips for protecting your computer from viruses:

• Install an antivirus program.  Installing an anti-virus program and keeping it up to date can help defend your computer against viruses. Antivirus programs scan for viruses trying to get into your email, operating system, or files. New viruses appear daily, so set your antivirus software to install updates automatically.
• Install a malware program.  Many PC users just install an anti-virus. I strongly recommend installing both. There are different types of malware that include: infectious malware, web threats, concealment malware and mobile malware. McAfee might say that the total protection from them includes anti-malware, but I double checked and didn’t see it listed anywhere.
• Don’t open email attachments, unless you’re expecting them.  Many viruses attach themselves to email messages and will spread as soon as you open the email attachment. It’s best not to open any attachment unless it’s something you’re expecting. Be especially wary of .exe files.
• Keep your computer updated.  If you’re a PC user and use Windows, Microsoft releases security updates that can help protect your computer. Make sure that Windows receives these updates by turning on Windows automatic updating.
• Use a firewall.‌ Windows Firewall (or any other firewall) can help alert you to suspicious activity if a virus or worm attempts to connect to your computer. It can also block viruses, worms, and hackers from attempting to download potentially harmful programs to your computer.
• Use your browser’s privacy settings.  Being aware of how websites might use your private information is important to help prevent fraud and identity theft. If you’re using Internet Explorer, you can adjust your Privacy settings or restore the default settings whenever you want.
• Use a pop-up blocker with your browser.  Pop-up windows are small browser windows that appear on top of the website you’re viewing. Although most are created by advertisers, they can also contain malicious or unsafe code.  A pop-up blocker can prevent some or all of these windows from appearing.  The Pop-up Blocker feature in Internet Explorer is turned on by default.
• Turn on User Account Control (UAC).  When changes need to be made to your computer that requires administrator-level permission, UAC notifies you and gives you the opportunity to approve the change. UAC can help keep viruses from making unwanted changes.

Let Us Help

With hackers, identity theft, viruses, etc. being on the rise and technology changing daily, PC owners should stay on top of keeping their computers virus and malware free.  If you need help with anything related to viruses, don’t hesitate to contact us!

About Us

SOBX Tech is Eastern North Carolina’s leader for computer services, computer repair, software installations and software upgrades.  SOBX Tech serves the Southern Outer Banks community and surrounding areas. Located in Eastern North Carolina, along North Carolina’s beautiful Crystal Coast, we’re happy to provide on-site service in your home or business, at no extra charge!