How Much Security is Enough?

One of the most commonly asked questions from computer owners is how much security is enough to prevent contamination by viruses and bugs and infiltration by hackers and malicious software. When it comes to protecting one’s computer, individuals fall on both sides of the fence. Some fail to perform the basic required steps to protect their computer whereas others go to the other extreme and pay hundreds of dollars for extraneous anti-viral software and programs.

The following is a list of the items to consider when securing your computer as well as the methods by which this can be achieved.

Malware

Malware consists of software which can damage your computer as well as spread to your contacts and other computers on your network. This can be successfully avoided by using an anti-virus program, like System Optimizer Pro, which regularly scans your computer with current detection signatures as well as using scanners and software to ensure that no malware is missed. In addition, do not install unnecessary and unknown software and use a program which monitors the system and prevents unwanted changes from occurring.

Vulnerabilities

These include weaknesses in the software and other services which our computer utilizes. If there is a glitch in these systems, it is possible for them to become infected. To avoid this, frequently install security updates and use a firewall. Use a scanner to make sure that the security configuration is in place and that there is no missing required updates.

Spam and Fraud

Spam and fraud includes emails or websites which send fake messages that could allow your PC to become infected. You can protect your computer by generating secure passwords and changing them regularly. Enable your email’s and internet’s spam and fraud filtering protection systems and do not click on unknown links and be wary of providing financial or personal information.

Software or Computer Failure

This can include glitches in the software, improper shutdowns of the PC, as well as failure of the hardware which can result in loss of data. If a part of the system is having issues and the computer shuts down, select System Restore in order to reboot the computer. In addition, back up the system with an external hard drive or using an online back-up. Also, defrag your hard drive and eliminate unessential files frequently.

Social Engineering

Social networking has increased dramatically in popularity leading to higher exposure of personal information providing an invitation to identity thieves. Limit the number of social networks you belong to, if you must belong to any at all and make sure that your privacy settings are set as high as you can reasonably set them. If you have children, make sure to caution them about social networking sites.

Network Intrusions and Hackers

When computers are on weak settings or there are open ports available, your network is the most susceptible to intrusion. To protect your computer and information, use a firewall in order to block access and make sure that you are not allowing distrusted computers to access your network. When using a public computer or connection, make sure to log-out of your websites and delete your tracking history.