12 security tips to prevent data loss, theft or destruction

Author: A. I. Admin

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Data security is a major issue nowadays, not only for big companies, but also for home users. Considering all the threats out there (hacking attacks, phishing, viruses and malware, bloatware, dialers), it's obvious that one has to take all the measures to protect the data stored on a computer. Since one can never be too careful, we've put together a list of fifteen basic security tips to prevent data loss, data destruction or data theft.

1. Protect your computer by installing a physical computer lock. Click here for an example.

2. Try not to leave your desktop or laptop unattended. Log off every time you leave your computer unattended.

3. Always lock your computers with a password. Thus, no one can log on unauthorized on your computer while you are away. Try and use alfanumeric combinations for your passwords, these are difficult to crack (example: instead of using 'johnsmith' or '453211' as a password, try using 'john1984smith23')

4. Never share your passwords with anyone. Keep your passwords in password manager applications' containers and never keep them in text files saved randomly on your desktop or in document folders.

5. Always install an antivirus and firewall on your computer and make sure that they are constantly updated. Antivirus and firewall programs prevent hacking attempts, phishing or identity theft attempts and acquisition of all kinds of malware.

6. When inserting USB memory sticks, CDs, DVDs, Blu-Ray disks or any other removable drives, make sure to scan them with an updated antivirus tool in order to make sure they don't mess up your computer.

7. Make sure your installed software (including operating systems) are updated regularly. Higher software versions always provide enhanced security than the previous ones, especially when it comes to Web browsers.

8. When shopping on the Internet, try to make sure you make payments using secure connections (usually URLs start with https://).

9. Never respond to emails requesting user names, passwords or any other security codes.

10. After checking your email or shopping on the Internet, don't forget to log off or sign out from your accounts.

11. Install a backup software and regularly create backups of your critical data in order to prevent it from damage or accidental loss.

12. Never throw away any hard drive (or entire computer) without deleting all the information. There's lots of applications that can help you delete all data beyond recovery. This way you make sure no one will recover any critical data or personal information you do not wish to disclose.

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12 security tips to prevent data loss, theft or destruction

Author: A. I. Admin

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