When the giant techs like Apple, Microsoft and eBay had become victims of hackers, ordinary people like us are also alerted. These titans have cutting edge hard-bolt security which may be the best in the field of security and protection… and us? Oh, we poor mundane netizens really have something to worry about really.
So as the criminals are on the rampage, we should also take necessary measures to lessen our exposure to these malicious entities. How? We put together some tips to help you keep your digital life safe.
- Be sure to apply important or necessary software updates. Yesterday, we told you about the Shellshock bash bug and how it is to be prevented. We mentioned that the only prevention you can do for it is to update your software. It is also the same with apps on your mobile—you get bugs, the developer updates, you update and voila! The bugs are not there anymore to bug you.
Make the anti-virus and anti-malware software your top priority when it comes to updates. The logic is quite simple: Latest malware and virus can be matched by the latest anti-malware and anti-virus programs.
- Be sure to apply patches to software on your computer. Companies like the Microsoft often issue patches to strengthen their programs against vulnerability. Check on your Microsoft office, Adobe products and Java for patches to keep spyware away from your system.
- Be sure to apply strong and unique passwords. Complex passwords often discourage cybercriminals. Make your password a combination of upper case letter, lowercase letters, special characters and numbers. Lengthy passwords may deter you but it also keeps hackers at bay. Fortunately for you, you can memorize or even jut them down, old-fashioned style—on your notebook with your pen.
- Don’t use the same password on your multiple accounts as if one account has been breached, others with the same password may be penetrated as well.
- Practice safe web surfing and be cautious about “free” downloadable programs.
- Open email attachments with care as they may be used for phishing methods.
- Don’t just download mobile apps from unknown sources or sites. Use stores like Google Play store, Amazon Appstore and Apple’s App Store to ensure your security.