In the last 10 years teenagers and young adults have always been the two most likely groups to use the internet. Studies show the majority of teenagers have access to a smartphone as well as 45% who say they’re online “almost continuously’.
With the growing presence and tech that the internet can provide it is essential to be secure more than ever. Making sure that your systems, networks and programs protected from digital attacks is a growing problem, especially for college students.
Wherever you’re studying all over the world, a laptop is crucial for completing assignments, study materials, and even taking classes! Without having a laptop, you’ll be impossible to meet your obligations as a student. So, it’s crucial to keep your laptop and its contents secure and safe.
While campus safety is often an important concern for a lot of parents, it’s normal to also worry for their security on the internet.
We’re here to help you… it’s Computer Security Day, so we’ve created a list with tricks to keep your laptop and accounts safe from thieves and hackers!
1. Use a firewall, antivirus and antispyware system
Many schools offer the security software for free with the understanding that some campuses only offer one or two wifi networks across the entire campus, making it even easier for hackers to compromise your personal details and allow them to target hundreds of users in just one vulnerability.Join Us companionlink website
2. Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments within emails and messages
If you get an email or message from someone else you don’t know (or maybe someone you know) that contains links , or attachments that appear like they might be spam… Don’t open the email or attachments! Eliminate immediately and dispose of the trash can. They may be infected with harmful viruses.
3. Place your money in a credit-card
This could sound absurd… since I’m certain you’ve heard of the debt credit cards can be a source of debt if not paid off correctly, but shopping on the internet with a credit cards can be safer as compared to using a debit. Your debit card is connected to your bank account, and this means that if someone gets your debit account information the bank will have immediate access to all of the money that is in your account. You should be sure to examine your credit card statement frequently and alert your bank immediately when you notice any suspicious actions. If you’re approved for credit card, make sure you be sure to keep your monthly payments on track to ensure you don’t pay high fees for late payments.
4. Make backups of your files
We recommend investing in an external hard drive that you can carry around, especially during the finals time. Nothing is more frustrating than having to lose months of hard-earned work due to security breaches. Things happen, so you need to be prepared for anything. Even if you’re not breached, you could spill coffee on your laptop , and then lose everything. Better to be safe rather than sorry!
5. Lock your dorm room
Never leave your dorm room unlocked! Not only is your laptop being kept in the room, but also all of your personal belongings (and those belonging to your roommate, if your roommate has one). Be cautious who you allow access to your space as well. Although someone might appear friendly It is best to make sure no one has access to your bedroom without you being there. Don’t keep computers in the vehicle, as it could easily become a target for theft and break-in.
6. Clean old devices
If you decide to purchase a new laptop or phone at school, make sure to wash your old device clean prior selling. It’s not always easy getting it done correctly, so make sure you adhere to online guidelines carefully or go to a local store or library for assistance.
7. Use strong passwords and be creative with your passwords
When you create passwords for your accountsmake sure to use one that contains distinct characters and capital letters. Avoid using things like “password” or “123456′. Also, make sure you utilize different versions of your passwords for multiple accounts. By using the same password on all your accounts you may risk the hacker’s ability to gain access to all of your accounts.
8. Be smart on social media
Although social media is an excellent tool to update your friends and family on the latest happenings with you, it’s definitely sensible to be aware of the people who are being followed by your accounts. Based on the number of followers you have be sure to take note of the content you post through social media. If you have many followers, make sure you are careful about sharing your location, locations, etc. because it could give someone a heads up that you are not in town and that your belongings back at home aren’t being looked after. We recommend staying private and monitoring your followers in order to ensure that all your pictures and other information are secure.
9. Enable two-factor authentication
Most email service providers now offer this method to safeguard accounts. This may seem unnecessary but it is a great way to strengthen your password and can protect you from being compromised. It’s possible to set this up on your mobile or use an app.
10. Don’t give out your passwords
Passwords are there for a reason they’re created to remain private and are for your eyes only. Be careful to not share passwords as divulging confidential details gives them direct into your passwords. Sharing your password with Netflix can be a good thing However, if your password for Netflix is also your password for everything… may be best to keep it to yourself.