5 Ways to Prevent Computer Hacking

We’ve talked specifically about the dangers of thieves getting their hands on your physical letters and documents, but have you thought about your virtual documents? How safe and secure is your computer right now? Most of us will leave some sort of private information on our hard drives at some point, such as a letter to a creditor or bank. Does this letter contain personal details? Of course it does. I’ve created a ‘5 Step Protective Plan’ checklist for you to take a look at. Almost all of the recommendations are available free and will go a long way to preventing anybody from infiltrating your computer.

1. Windows Automatic Updates

Once you have your anti-virus installed and running you’re safe to go online and update your Windows operating system. Today’s versions of Windows come with a handy ‘Automatic Updates’ feature which lets your computer update itself when required. If you turn on Automatic Updates, your computer will simply let you know when an update is ready to install. I strongly suggest you always have this switched on!

2. Anti-virus, anti-spam and anti-spyware software

These programs should be your top priority after setting up your computer. It will immediately provide a layer of protection against damaging viruses that can destroy your computer, spyware that can be used to steal your personal information and even phishing scams. You’ll find a whole host of different programs with wide ranging price tags. You don’t have to pay a fortune to get good protection. 10% Off - 1 YR - Trend Micro Internet Security 2009 - Coupon Code: TrendIS.

3. Wireless Net Security

This is a really big one that we have mentioned earlier! If you have a wireless network at home then make absolutely certain you have wireless encryption enabled, preventing any unauthorized computers from connecting to your network without a password. You do not want anybody leeching off your connection! It’s entirely possible for a dedicated hacker to connect to your network and access your files if you don’t have the encryption enabled, remember?

4. Activate Your Firewall!

Windows has a built in Firewall that protects unauthorized connections to and from the Internet, but make sure you have it turned on. You will get a personal Firewall as part of the package if you decide to purchase either version of Trend Micro’s Internet Security, but if you prefer not to, you can use the standard Windows Firewall which is reliable and dependable.

5. Passwords, passwords, passwords

I know, I know, we’ve heard it all before right? Then why is it that so many of us still insist on using simple, sometimes obvious passwords? Do NOT use your children’s names, your date of birth, your dog’s name or anything else that can easily be figured out. Try and think of a password that has no meaning to anybody but you. And then make sure you password protect your computer as well as your wireless network.

Computer Hacking Defensive Tips

Trend Micro products won a recent award from Consumer Reports and I would highly recommend their Internet Security program. It’s easy to install, updates automatically, and won’t slow your system down. It even has protection to help you avoid unsafe wi-fi hotspots and wireless networks! 10% Off - 1 YR - Trend Micro Internet Security 2009 - Coupon Code: TrendIS.