Protecting your assets should be a top priority for most of us.  Whether it’s a prized possession, expensive electronic gadgets, or your digital data, you should always ensure you have given thought to its protection. Disaster can come about with even the slightest carelessness. You’ve probably dropped a device and cracked its screen at some point.  Oftentimes there is more damage to the internal components and a finding a service that does computer screen repair in Toronto won’t be what you need.  Aside from physical damage, the chances to get some type of malware continue to rise.  When considering protecting your electronic items like computers, we’ve put together a short guide to keep it safe.

Make Sure Your Desktop Is Password Protected

Our computers have become a storehouse for all kinds of documents and information.  Securing this is imperative on your part. When you open your computer, it should ask you for a password every time.  In the case of theft, a password might be the only thing between the malcontent and your personal data. With no password to keep unauthorized access out, the thief can get through your documents, bank details, and other information. Creating a decent password is key. It will not only restrict others from stealing vital data but also negates many other security concerns as well.

 Install Antivirus Software and Keep It Updated

Malware attack on computers are common these days.  Once that you run into one, you may not be able to stop it by just turning off your computer or unplugging the internet.  It will likely begin affecting many of your computer functions. Generally inhibiting proper use and often relaying data to those who shouldn’t have it. Slow response, erratic stoppages of applications, internet connection failure are some common symptoms. Use of a strong Antivirus will keep these hackers at bay.  At the same time, be sure to regularly and upgrade to ensure you have the latest and strongest protection.

Do Not Click on Pop-Ups

There are many tricks used to get you to download viruses.  Everything from online games or recipe downloads, to pornography and online gambling.  There are several ways hackers will breach through your firewall and most of it comes from ‘click bait’.  If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Don’t click on that pop-up that gives you exactly what you want and more.  Don’t click the link to a story that sounds so interesting or to find out what you won’t believe about number 5. These are tricks to get you closer to a download, an infected site, or another way to steal your information.  If you’re interested, go to Google and search the topic or go directly to the advertisers website.  This will avoid the chance to be taken advantage of.

Use a Spam/Antivirus Filter on Your Email

There are millions of spammy emails sent to across the globe daily.  Your inbox may have a large chunk of these.  Many will contain viruses or damaging software. Spammers and hackers are getting smarter and looking more and more like a real person.  Some will even seem like a company that you are currently using.  They may seem like an old friend or a company providing a refund you didn’t know you deserved.  These are all dangerous.  Adding a spam/antivirus filter to your email will help you sift through the crap. Still, if you don’t know exactly who the sender is or it sounds suspicious, just don’t click on it.  Delete it and move on.

To sum up, if you follow these tips, they could save you from unnecessary hassles and the potential of having your information stolen. If you have run into issues with malware or data breaches, look up our computer repair services in Toronto. We’ll help you get back on track.