One big challenge that cuts across all industries is security. No matter the sector where you work, you have to worry about security. Since IT has now taken over all sectors, it is worst hit by security challenges. IT is fraught with so many types of security challenges. Ranging from stealing of files to phishing to get sensitive information with which hackers can have remote access to victims system.
One thing that makes theft easy in the IT industry is the fact that a file can be stolen with the original copy still existing. When a physical item is stolen, the item goes missing and the owner begins to look for it. But this is not so for file or data on the PC. It can be copied and the owner will never know.
Some serious security tips to protect you from hackers
Since IT faces relatively higher number of security issues, it is necessary to have the following security tips handy to avoid being a victim of theft, phishing or hacking. Contrary to what most people think, you don't have to be a technical guru to fortify your PC against all kinds of security issues.
Most people get it wrong with their password
You have to take your passwords seriously. One common mistake most people make is not logging out of all their accounts. They feel it is not necessary since nobody else uses the laptop with them, so why should they always log out. They can just close it. Yes, so many sites automatically log users out after about 5 minutes of inactivity. But sites like yahoo and Facebook don't log users out. This makes it easy for hackers to have remote access into such accounts. They can even use such them to send phishing mails to all the email addresses in your address book.
Since statistics now show that the internet is now more accessed via mobile devices than via laptops and desktops, so hackers now target mobile devices. To that end, you should be careful on the kind of free games and apps you download on your device. A lot of them come with viruses, Trojan horses and several kinds of malwares. The malwares give hackers remote access to your device. Some malwares even search for vital information like password, pass code, PINS and credit card details. The more you download free apps the higher your chances of downloading malwares. The message here is to avoid free apps/games as much as possible.
Keep your system up to date with the latest software
Another simple tip is to set up your computer to allow automatic software and OS updates. This is because most updates always include upgrades in the security facilities of the software. It could be that the owners of the software have discovered some security lapses or loopholes which they intend to plug with the updates.
Keep your data backed up
Another simple security tip is to back up all your files regularly. If all your important data and files are well backed up, it is easy for you to format your whole system when you notice the presence of virus or malwares in your system. But if your files are not backed up, even if you notice some virus activities, you will be reluctant to format your system.
Firewalls are your friend, don't let down your guard
Firewalls should never be taken for granted at all. Your firewalls should always be on at all times. Fortunately, both Windows and Macintosh operating systems come with very effective firewalls. If they are set properly during installation they will go a long way In protecting your computer. And these firewalls get upgraded regularly.
Information is key to security
Finally, the most important tip is to stay informed. Hackers embark on researches everyday and they come up with new technology driven strategies to execute their plans everyday. What wards them off today may become ineffective tomorrow. This is why you have to always get as much security knowledge and tips as possible.
