Protection

There are some key principles to consider for keeping your computer or network secure.

They are as follows:

 

Install and Use Anti-Virus Programs

We recommend Kaspersky Internet Security, download here.

 

Keep Your System Patched

Download and install all main Updates for your Apple or Microsoft machine and don't forget to keep your other programs up to date too.

 

Use Care When Reading Email with Attachments

Don't click on anything unless 100% sure about the content and the origin of the email.

 

Install and Use a Firewall Program

Kaspersky covers that but if you use a different Internet Security Program make sure yours does too (and yes, we love Kaspersky around here).

 

Make Backups of Important Files and Folders

Backup, Backup, Backup, Backup, Backup and Backup! It could not be stressed enough how important is to have at list two copies of your important files. A lesson which unfortunately most people learn when years of memories or crucial business records are gone for good!

 

Use Strong Passwords - "John123" is not a password, "a@MqB&YLajP#nEae2AUjo7S" is!

We are now past the time where 6 character passwords would suffice. As computers become ever more powerful and hackers get ever more inventive you shouldn’t settle for anything that includes fewer than 12 characters, lower and upper case letters, numbers and symbols.

 

Use Care When Downloading and Installing Programs

When in doubt - check the name of the program on Google for its reputation or give us a call for a free piece of my mind.

 

Install and Use a File Encryption Program and Access Controls

If you own a file or files that are for-your-eyes-only you should use some encryption software to prevent anyone from accessing them or/and at the very list use a strong password for your computer. A password alone will not help if your system is lost or stolen or when a determent person is left alone with your machine for more than few minutes! Encryption however will render the information on your machine “useless” to anyone who doesn’t have your encryption password

 

It should be remembered that threats to your computer may not just be those found online. If your computer were to be stolen, or accessed in your absence, how hard would it be for the perpetrator to access confidential information? Does your computer even have a password to log on?