Today, in this era where the doors of the digital world are opened, phones, tablets, computers, smart homes, cars, and artificial intelligence reach us everywhere we touch, perhaps making us think about how protective the security measures or the measures taken are. We read, see, watch and unfortunately experience what the unnecessary and misuse of this technology that makes our lives easier costs.
Every year, 30 November is celebrated as “Computer Safety” in order to raise awareness about the safety of our computers, which are a part of our lives. Although there were not yet computers in many homes or workplaces in 1988, it became quite difficult to keep these powerful machines safe in the late 1990s, especially in the business world and government/public institutions, and finally with the internet reaching our homes. Some of them contain lifetime data, valuable and irreplaceable photos, diaries, novels, passwords. It is vital to protect even some of this information.
More importantly, data stored on computers and servers means more valuable information for hackers, which means more high-profile security breaches. Online security is becoming a bigger concern, which is why National Computer Security Day was created to raise awareness about computer security.
Have you ever wondered what lurks in the digital shadows? Let’s shed light on these threat types:
- Malware: A threat to your computer
- Phishing: The Art of Deception
- Spear Phishing: A Targeted Deception
- Man-in-the-Middle Attack: Intercepting Communications
- Denial-of-Service Attack: Overwhelming Systems
- Usability Breach: Unauthorized Access
- Privacy Breach: Unsolicited Disclosure
- Integrity Breach: Data Inconsistency
- SQL Injection: Database Usage
- Zero-Day Exploit: Unpatched Vulnerabilities
- DNS Attack: Altering Web Traffic
Computer Security Day provides an excellent reminder!
It is also important to periodically review the security of your computer. You can use the checklist below to keep your computer secure. If you use social media, this is also a good time to review your settings. Social media is another avenue through which identity thieves, viruses and computer fraud can be perpetrated.
- Enable operating system automatic updates.
- Install antivirus software and keep it running.
- Use a firewall.
- Keep all software up to date.
- Always use strong passwords.
- Do not share your passwords and do not write them down.
- I need a password to access my computer.
- Uninstall unused programmes.
- Secure your wireless network.
- Back up critical data.
- Be careful when surfing the Internet.
- Log off the computer when not in use.
- Periodically remove temporary Internet files.
Some of the questions about computer passwords;
Question1: Is it appropriate to write down my passwords?
It depends on the situation. As long as you do not have the habit of reusing passwords, there is no harm in writing down your passwords. If you use the same password for everything, you run the risk of all your accounts being hacked instead of just one. Don’t forget to keep your written passwords safe!
Question 2: I use the same password for everything. It’s easier to remember, is it safe?
If you use only one password and that password is compromised, all of your accounts will be compromised. Create a different password for each account.
Question 3: What if I only use numeric passwords?
Most accounts today have minimum password requirements. For a strong password, consider;
- Minimum 8 characters
- At least one number
- Lower and upper case letters
- At least one symbol
Identity theft, fraud, ransomware and viruses are constantly attacking our computers. Targeting the most vulnerable users, they can take us offline in an instant and derail a lifetime of success. Protect your family and your business by having your computers security checked.
