In my many years as an IT Consultant, computer security has been one of the top priorities for my clients.
I want to make sure they’re secure in everything they do, as it relates to their computer systems.
Even if they’re working with only one computer in their office.
I’ve witnessed countless instances in which users put themselves at risk. And it’s due to a lack of knowledge. They simply don’t know what they don’t know, and end up paying for it over time.
That’s why I do what I do.
Let me give you some examples to better explain what I mean.
Are you guilty of the following non-secure computer practices?
No Anti-Virus in Place
Believe it or not, there are people in 2018 running their computers without sufficient anti-virus protection. I put this one first because it’s so important. Having an anti-virus on your computer system(s) is vital!
If you’re not running one, you’re just asking to be infected or be hacked.
There are several to choose from (some even free). In fact, if you’re running Windows 10, it comes pre-loaded with a built-in anti-virus called Windows Defender. Just make sure it’s set up and running properly.
If you’re not running Windows 10, then you can always download Security Essentials for free. So there’s no excuse not to have an anti-virus installed.
If you’re unsure how to do this, ask an IT professional to help you, or check your local electronic store.
If you’re still not sure, contact us, and we’ll help you.
Your Computer is Not Password-Protected
I understand your pain with the whole “there are too many dang passwords for me to keep up with”…..I get it.
But let me present it to you another way.
Which would you rather, be a little inconvenienced for a few minutes (seconds in some cases) and set up a password? Or being inconvenienced for months…maybe years trying to recover from identity theft, getting hacked (….ransom style), having your privacy invaded, or a combination of all the above?
I’d be willing a wager a bet that you’d go with the former. Right?
So I’ll make this simple. Password protects your computer. Make it complex (easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess). And change your password often.
Finally, make sure to always lock your computer when you step away from your work area. Especially if you’re in an office/corporate environment.
Your Computers are OLD!
I could sugarcoat this, but I’d rather be honest and tell you like it is. If your computer is still running Windows XP, and in some cases Vista, in 2018….it’s time to get a new computer. Period.
From a security aspect, running an outdated OS (Operating System) opens you to a can of worms.
You know that message you get every now and again from Microsoft about updates? I know they’re annoying, but they help keep you secure, with some additional cool features.
Updates are created, essentially to not only keep things current but also to change up the coding of your OS.
This prevents you from becoming an easy target, as it relates to hacking and other security threats.
You might be saying…..” But Andrew, I need to run Windows XP to run this legacy system for my company”. My answer to that is simple, upgrade from that legacy system.
Yes, it’s a learning curve, and you may experience some inconveniences. But that’s better than losing all your company data because that old computer was hacked. Think bigger picture, and get a better perspective.
Also, older computers, from a hardware standpoint simply can’t keep up with the ever-changing modern technology.
The average lifespan of a typical PC-based computer is between 5 to 7 years (maybe 8….max).
No Backup in Place
I’m not going to beat a dead horse on this one. I talked about this in my last post. Get a backup system in place, especially if you’re in an office environment.
If you’re not the boss or CEO that makes those decisions, check with the person that does. If they ask why you’re asking, tell them Andrew from Advanced-PCs told you to ask.
If they have questions, ask them to call us.
Seriously, we can help you in this area and keep your data fully backed up.
To Conclude
OK, that’s all I have for today.
Hopefully, you don’t fall into any of these categories, and you’re doing a good job keeping your computer secure.
If you do fall into one or a few of the above, make sure to tighten up those loose ends. Being proactive with these small steps will pay dividends for you in the long run.