Did you know that viruses and malware are more dangerous to your laptop or personal computer than most Aussies think. They contribute not only to loss of data but also affect privacy, cause the computer to slow down or not start, and reduce overall functionality hindering daily work that you derive from your computer device.
Here are some simple user hacks on protecting your computer without seeking professional help.
Connect to Secure Networks Only
We Australians are well known for mateship, hard-word and curiosity to explore, and for some of us, it may seem feasible to steal a neighbor’s WiFi connection line, or to connect to open public networks in cafes and public places, but this is a considerable risk to your laptop.
Connect your laptop to internet either via private networks, secure mobile hotspot or use a portable prepaid internet modem (major retailers like Tesltra and Optus have prepaid mobile broadband options for those once in a while connections to internet on the move). This will reduce the risk from intruders and malware floating on foreign or public networks. Remember, they’re public for a reason.
Always enable SSL on your own routers and set hard-to-crack passwords on your own mobile phones and also internet connection so that others are unable to hack in and utilise your devices or internet access.
Use Antispyware and Antivirus Protection Against Thieves and Scams
This may sound self-explanatory but Antivirus software that scans your system regularly and prevents phishing websites and emails from getting through to your system is vital. An add-on (or separate software in some cases) of Anti-spyware is also essential so no one else can access the data you are researching, or sending from your laptop especially as it may be very personal details such as bank information or transactions.
International thieves continue to target vulnerable Australians through internet scams, that means, never click on the link in mobile message or email if it looks suspicious, for example: from your bank, or ATO, or Energy provider. It is a fact that no bank or government department in Australia will ask for personal sensitive or private information through emails, or text messages.
Free trial versions of Antivirus or Internet Security software may offer basic protection, and yet, it is worthwhile to spend a bit more on paid antivirus packages which do not cost a lot and can be purchased annually as well.
If you’re using your laptop computer for work purposes or if you work from home and are continually downloading and sharing information, make sure to use antivirus software because its a necessary investment. Creating and maintaining a firewall is also essential and you must have one for all the routers connected to your laptop to ensure maximum protection from spyware and hackers. Here at The Electronic Fix, we can advice you on your options, install, check and maintain strict security protocols for all types of networks (home, private, intranet).
Updates and Secure Browsing
Operating systems need to be updated in order to keep the laptop and computer error free and safe, make sure you have set reminders (for Windows OS auto update should be enabled) for all updates and have a good internet connection for the purpose. Secure browsing is also indispensable for protecting against viruses and latest internet browsers such as Google Chrome or Firefox can be downloaded for free.
However, if you use your laptop a lot and have installed third-party plug-ins or extensions, then, always be aware that these third-party plug-ins or extensions pose a high security risks, every month do a clean sweep of your system and remove extensions and software you don’t use (or disable them till you need to use them again) and clear the browser cache and downloaded cookies and files regularly.
Wherever possible, back up important data to external drives as hard drive data can easily get corrupted and as a result can infect the rest of the operating system.
Basic Caution Again
It may seem harmless to open unknown email attachments or respond to an email by clicking a link you don’t recognise but this can result in viruses as well as the loss of privacy and important data.
Antivirus software, latest browsers protects you by showing messages and warnings but only to a certain extent, the rest of the precautions has to be exercised by you. Best bet however is to be informed about the type of scams occuring. Visit Scamwatch website to learn more about online security.
Questions about Laptops and Software?
When searching for answers and laptop repair solutions, contact us for honest, professional and competitively priced service rates for all repairs in Brisbane. You got a desktop computer, laptop or Apple iPhone or Mac problem needing repairs or maintenance? Then its fair to say that you rather get it repaired professionally and affordably, get in touch with a trusted local laptop repair services in Brisbane, The Electronic Fix
Laptops Fixed Fast
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.
