The term unauthorized access means invading the privacy of someone’s computer without their consent. Such a situation can arise if you leave your system unattended or you are using your Internet without any firewall to protect against malware and viruses. To protect your data, you can take preventive measures regardless of the operating system you use.
Today, users are aware of password protection that is essential for wireless networks and systems. Irrespective of the fact that cyber rogues can access your private data, there are still a few loopholes that most users aren’t aware of. Therefore, the shortcomings are utilized by cybercriminals to gain access to your system.
In this article, the best tips and techniques are covered to prevent unauthorized computer or network access:
Install all Security Patches
People who are using Windows PC often ignore Microsoft updates that ensure the security and protection of your confidential data. These usually pop up during work – thus, users tend to ignore them to avoid interruptions. However, they are not aware that these updates are critical as they include updated security patches that ensure better data protection. If you are concerned about why these updates are required, it is because the operating system and browser that you use have certain susceptibilities, which may give unauthorized computer access to hackers. In addition to this, hackers can easily determine the loopholes to invade a computer. It is recommended to set the Microsoft Updates to automatic so that you save your time.
Browsing the Internet? Pay Due Attention to File Sharing
This is critical if you are surfing the internet on a Local Area Network (LAN) where the file-sharing feature is enabled for unlimited users. To keep your data protected, you should disable this feature. In case you do not want to disable it, share files and folders only with users and systems you know. Leaving it enabled can make your system an easy target for hackers to invade.
Keep the Firewall On
If you understand the concept of a firewall, you should know its significance as well. This basically acts as a protective wall or layer between you and the internet. Before sending, a firewall’s primary responsibility is to track and scrutinize all the data exchanged between the computer and the server. In instances where your firewall thinks there is a threat, a pop-up warning message may appear to notify you. Having a firewall turned on, you can easily stop potential threats in the form of malware or virus.
Carefully Read Your Email MEssages and Know the Senders
The majority of the users tend to ignore or neglect email security despite knowing about it. It is imperative to ignore email messages you receive from unknown sources. Further, do not open any attachments included from a source that you do not trust. One of the oldest methods to send malware and viruses is through email attachments.
Maintain a Proper Backup of Your Data Online
One thing that you should avoid doing is surfing the internet for important data on a computer that is infected. It may further create trouble as hackers can easily invade your computer to get unauthorized access to your valuable data and information. It is recommended to create and maintain a backup of all your data online. There are different platforms available to store your data on the server. Rest assured, such platforms are reliable as they offer limited or unlimited storage space for a specific amount.
Make Use of Strong Passwords
It is essential to use a personal password for all your accounts to prevent unauthorized access. A user has to be more careful about this if they use a shared system. Apart from this, make sure to change passwords often.
- Use antivirus software. “Do not avoid security patches.” Download a strong antivirus to prevent viruses, worms, and others. This will prevent your computer from being hacked.
- Keep the software up to date.
- Verify your software security. Do not allow any application to make changes to your computer.
- Back up early and often. Make use of websites that provide storage and allow you to keep a copy of your information. It will help to keep the data safe.