Here are some tips to protect your sensitive files from hackers.
Although technology has evolved to keep our files secure, computer hacking is still a very serious threat. One of the main ways that identity thieves steal identity is through computers – whether it be through spyware or the internet. Hacking is regularly performed by automated scripts written to search the Internet in an attempt to exploit known website security issues in software. Here are a few tips to help keep you and your documents safe online.
Keep Software Up To Date
While this may seem obvious, it’s important to note that keeping all software up to date is essential to keeping your computer secure. You should always have anti-virus and anti-spyware programs on your computer and should be updated whenever you see the notification. Many people find these notifications annoying and feel like they can’t be bothered to update, but these programs are important to keep your computer safe from hackers.
Do Not Open Spam
If an email looks like spam, delete it immediately. These suspicious emails can cause extreme damages to your computer and can hack all of your stored personal information. Also, never provide personal information over email, and delete any emails that ask you to provide information.
Strong Password
To keep your email safe, make sure your password is strong and not easy to guess. The longer the password, the better, and be sure to include a mixture of number, lowercase and uppercase letters and special characteristics. Also, try not to use real words in your passwords, as the majority of hacking attacks cycle through dictionary words. The best passwords are a randomly generated string of at least 16 characteristics.
Another Layer Of Security
While a strong password is helpful to prevent an attack, but another layer of security is also important. Most emails have a security mechanism called two-factor authentication, meaning you must provide another form of identification other than your username and password to log in. This may take more time out of your day to log in, but it is worth it when you are protecting your personal information.
Do Not Use Free Wi-fi
Free wi-fi is great and is becoming increasingly available in stores, restaurants, and even in open areas. However, these public wi-fi spots can actually put your computer in a lot of danger. Public wi-fi makes it extremely easy for hackers to know your recent search history and private information, including your credit card number and social security number. Most people don’t think about others accessing the information they provide on their personal computers, but a stranger can access any of that information on an unsecured public network.
Computer Backup Storage for Your Office From Micro Records
Micro Records can help your business transition to a paperless way of life with quality e-forms and technology. For more information about how we can help your business utilize proactive monitoring, transition to doing things digitally, get rid of sensitive documents securely or benefit from new technology solutions, visit us online or give us a call at (877) 410-SCAN. For more tips on transitioning your business to paperless technology and going green, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, YouTube, and Flickr.