5 Tips to Keep Your Devices Secure From Hackers

Cyber threats are becoming more common nowadays and your devices are vulnerable to attacks by hackers and malware. It is always essential to install security solutions on your devices and follow some safe practices to protect your data and privacy. There are some essential tips to protect your devices from hackers:

5 Tips to Keep Your Devices Secure From Hackers

  1. Keep your Operating System and Firmware updated

You should always keep your device’s operating system updated with the latest security patches. Generally, Windows releases security updates which contain fixes for major vulnerabilities that can expose your device to hackers. You should keep checking the official page of your operating system vendor to see if there are any new patches available. Similarly, Android and iOS also release new updates frequently which will help to fix any security flaws in the existing software. Don’t miss out on such updates and be sure to reach when you receive any notification regarding new security update. You should also update the firmware of other devices in your home or office such as Wi-Fi routers, sensors, IP cameras, VoIP phones, Smart TVs and other IoT Devices. You should also keep your Antivirus software and other security Apps updated frequently. Some Antivirus tools like Bitdefender provide periodic updates with the latest virus signatures which help you protect your devices from zero-day attacks and newly identified malware.

  1. Install VPN Software

VPN stands for Virtual Private Networks which is a software tool that sends your data encrypted inside a secure tunnel. It helps to establish a secure communication with your device and the VPN server. VPN allows you to browse the internet anonymously and conceal your real location and identity which protects your device from getting exposed to hackers. They will not be able to steal any confidential when you browse internet using VPN software as it will be encrypted and sent across a secure tunnel making it difficult for hackers to perform any eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks. You can find the best VPN software for Windows and Mac books by going through online reviews. Even in your smartphone, you can install VPN software so that all your mobile browsing traffic will be encrypted and secure from any data theft by hackers.

  1. Install Antivirus software

Viruses and malware are used by hackers to gain unauthorized access to devices and steal sensitive data. According to a recent Security report, it was found that almost 17% of all Android apps found in Google Play are really malware in disguise. You should avoid installing such fake apps on your mobile device. Installing reliable and powerful antivirus software like Bitdefender can help you to protect your device from hackers. If you have a MacBook, you should consider installing Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac, which offers completion protection from all possible threats including spyware, Trojans, worms, viruses, rootkits and ransomware etc.

  1. Use of Strong Passwords and Data Encryption Tools

You should always consider using strong passwords for your device whether it’s a smartphone or laptop. Avoid using common names and default passwords as hackers will be able to gain unauthorized access using brute force techniques. You should use a strong password with a combination of numbers, capital letters and special characters which cannot be guessed by anyone. Also, you should not write down your password anywhere. If your smartphone or laptop supports biometric authentication or facial recognition, you can use such advanced security mechanism to lock your device.

Most operating systems support data encryption which makes it difficult for hackers to steal your data. In Android and iOS devices you can encrypt your data and use a PIN or password to decrypt it when required. Similarly MacBook also provides the FileVault option in Sierra OS which allows you to encrypt all the data stored in your hard disk using your iCloud account. In your smartphone, you can use tools like Document Locker and AppLock for Android and Signal for iOS devices to protect your important files from unauthorized access.

  1. Avoid use of Public Wi-Fi

It might be really tempting to use a free Wi-Fi at the coffee shop, airport or bus station. But most of these public Wi-Fi networks are completely unsecure as you can login without using any password. It is very easy for hackers to eavesdrop on such open Wi-Fi networks and they can steal your confidential info, including credit cards details, bank account credentials etc. Always use your mobile network or a secure Wi-Fi connection in your home or office only and avoid public Wi-Fi since it is unsecure and prone to attacks by hackers.

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