Throughout my career I have been asked the same question a million times, “Is my computer safe from hackers?” It’s hard to answer positively when, in reality, 77% of home and small business computers and networks are not secure.
Most people think that simply buying a security suite such as Internet Security keeps them safe. Although it is a good start, it’s not a comprehensive security solution. The biggest problem seems to be that users purchase a wireless router off the shelf and set it up using the factory defaults because that’s what the “quick setup” manual advises. The factory defaults may be secure enough to keep your neighbors from connecting to your wireless internet, but a true hacker driving down the street with a laptop can get into it in less than 15 seconds. In another 15 seconds, they could have your bank account information and credit card numbers.
Most wireless routers that can be purchased in a retail store or online are perfectly capable to provide solid security. It just takes a little more time to read the entire manual and use some of the advance options to setup good encryption and security. Of course, tech support is always helpful if further instruction or advice is needed. Just remember, using a family name or birthday as your password doesn’t qualify as a good measure of security.
Another situation that puts users at risk of falling victim to stolen identity is online shopping. Anytime users pay for purchases on the internet with a bank account or credit card without ensuring the website is a secure or trusted site may be putting you at risk. If you use Internet Explorer, Microsoft adds a gold key to the browser windowto let you know if the website you are using during checkout is secure. You can also look on the checkout page to see if the website is using encryption methods to protect your information. Paying for an item on a non-secure website is like calling each number in 100,000 phone books and directly giving them your bank account information.
As for email, the rules are simple. Don’t give anyone your bank account or credit card information through email. This includes sending an email with your account information in it as well as calling a number that you receive in an email asking you to verify that information. No trusted company will ever ask for your financial information via email.
Computer technology and network connections have grown to become a staple in our lives. With increased use and dependability on our computers, cyber-crime has also risen significantly. As a result, hacking has become a prevalent issue, and most of the time the consequences of a hack have such negative results that victims spend months or years trying to reclaim their lost identity. To prevent becoming a victim, it’s important to take your time when setting up personal security systems and ask for help when needed. It’s better to be safe than sorry!