We’ve got a treat for our website visitors, The Electronic Fix expert team is here to share useful and practical security insights that you can use to better protect your laptop computer as well as enjoy the many benefits of using the internet without falling victim to ever increasing scams, viruses and malware.
First Thing is First
Passwords. If there is one thing we see over and over again helping our valued customers with their laptop devices is weak ‘passwords’. Surely, having to remember complex passwords may seem daunting because of the fear that we may forget our own password if its complex. And yet, scammers and hackers rely heavily on cracking weak passwords. There are countless programs which tries to guess passwords making the scammers job easy if your password has common tell-tale signs such as your first or last name.
Windows Login
As you may know, most common way Microsoft Windows is used is either for personal or work purposes. And the fact that Windows OS compared to Apple IOS is used more often throughout Australia means that securing your laptop device or desktop computer should begin with better securing your login credentials. Latest version of Windows 10 (as well as Windows 11 which will be released soon) has additional features that makes security much better. Features such as:
Windows Hello
Windows Hello is a more personal way to sign in, using your face, fingerprint, or a PIN. You can use Windows Hello to sign in to your device on the lock screen and sign in to your account on the web. Since Windows Operating System is tied to your main Microsoft account, creating strong passwords (whether its for Windows Login or any other online account) is the first step you can take on the road to securing your digital world. Learn more about using Security key and Windows Hello and here
Internet & Online Accounts
Let’s really stop and consider these 2 samples:
- James013!
- n1-EYk9ovJ%5pgUfcxNLz)2
And yes, looking at the above password samples, there is no way you can remember the second example. And yet, password manager programs can be helpful to store complex password combinations. And since most modern Internet Browsers (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge and others) have built in password managers you no longer need to remember complex passwords because there are password managing tools. Here’s an open source program to consider the freely available KeePass Password Safe
Improve Google Account Security
Although we are going to share Google account security related tips, do keep in mind that most popular online platforms such as Facebook or others also offer similar features for better security.
Google account offers you the option to save passwords, once enabled, both your laptop, desktop, or smartphone can be streamlined when it comes to saving passwords. This will allow you to enjoy your online experience much better as well as allow you to store complex passwords without having to remember them.
Enable 2-Step Verification
- Open your Google Account.
- In the navigation panel, select Security.
- Under “Signing in to Google,” select 2-Step Verification > Get started.
- Follow the on-screen steps.
Once 2-Step Verification is setup, then, you’ll need to verify it’s you. Follow these instructions depending on which device you are using.
To check if your Google account is using 2-Step Verification correctly, simply make sure you are logged in to your main Google Account and Visit https://myaccount.google.com/signinoptions/two-step-verification and then check to see if 2-Step Verification is Turned On if it isn’t, then Turn It on.
How to Enable Facebook Two-Factor Authentication
Similar to 2-Step Verification, major social media platforms such as Facebook (and others) also have stronger security policies. For Facebook follow these steps:
- Go to your Security and Login Settings.
- Scroll down to Use two-factor authentication and click Edit.
- Choose the security method you want to add and follow the on-screen instructions (easiest way to better secure your Facebook account is by turning Two-Factor Authentication On).
Laptop Computer Viruses
At the end of the day, no laptop computer in Australia should be used without an Anti-Virus Internet Security software installed. Because computer viruses can not only cause huge losses (data security financial), a malware, trojan or virus can significantly damage your laptop’s performance wreaking havoc.
With the rise in the use of the internet and multiple websites filled with malware, the incidences of laptops infected with viruses has also increased throughout Australia. In fact, when we are repairing laptops in Brisbane Australia, we often get computers, laptops and even smartphones infected with viruses. Demand for our laptop virus removal service has increased in recent months which suggests there has never been a better time to get your laptop computer in for a service and full security audit.
Better Protect Your Laptop from Viruses and Malware
Firstly, you should always keep all software of your laptop updated (especially Microsoft Windows Operating System). The updated versions of system software not only provides new features to the end users, updates also removes the bugs and security deficiencies identified in the previous version.
Secondly, you should never click on links sent in an email from an unknown sender. According to Microsoft, clicking on unknown links is responsible for almost 45% of all Window OS virus infections.
Never click on any email link asking you to change your password or verify your account login details. Many hackers and scammers targeting Australians use email links pretending to be from Commonwealth Bank of Australia (or from other Australian Banks), Australian Tax Office (ATO), Centrelink, Google, Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, and other popular online platforms. When in doubt, always seek assistance, but never click on email links asking you to verify of change your account credentials.
Thirdly, you need to set a virus protection mechanism in place for your laptop. To do this, you can download and install a good and reputable antivirus internet security software for your laptop. There are also many free open source antivirus software programs available in the market which can serve as an additional layer of protection against viruses and malware.
Our valued customers living in Brisbane Australia can get fully qualified professional laptop technicians ‘The Electronic Fix’ to fully (and thoroughly) scan your laptop device for viruses and malware, and then install AntiVirus and Internet Security software. You’ll also appreciate our fixed upfront quote that is cost-effective.
Laptop Computer Malware & Virus Removed in Brisbane
Whether you suspect security problems, or whether your laptop is in need of a tune-up maintenance, you can get The Electronic Fix to audit, and implement better security protocols for all your digital devices. We can also provide computer security training and advice in Brisbane Australia.
Using state of the art tools coupled with many years of experience working on laptops, computers, electronic devices ensures that you’ll get friendly service, and competitive rates for Laptop Macbook Desktop Computer related services we provide here in Brisbane.
Computer & Laptop Virus Removal Service Brisbane
The Electronic Fix in Brisbane and surrounding suburbs offering laptop computer repairs, upgrades and part replacement as well as fixes game consoles. To learn more visit: Alderley, Arana Hills, Ashgrove, Aspley, Enoggera, Everton Hills, Everton Park, Ascot Brisbane, Bridgeman Downs, Carseldine, Clayfield and Services section.
