12 Computer Security Principles and Practices You Should Follow

If you’re new to computing, there are several security practices that you should learn to make a habit of. Here’s a list of 12 simple principles to follow.

Do

• Use antivirus and internet security software
  Never run a Windows operating system on your PC without installing an accompanying antivirus software. There several great, free antivirus programs like AVG Free, Avira Free and Avast! Free
• Update your operating system and antivirus definitions whenever available
  It may feel like a hassle to perform a system update because it means that you have to stop what you’re doing, allow your system to download the required updates, then spend more time waiting for it to install the updates. But guess what? That’s less hassle than losing all of your files when your unprotected system is commandeered by malware.
• Enable your firewall
  The firewall is your first line of defence against attacks. Plus, enabling it won’t hinder any work at all.
• Perform regular scans
  Antivirus software will continually scan computer for security risks automatically but sometimes, malware slips through especially if you haven’t been updating regularly. Performing manual scans every week helps to make sure that your system isn’t compromised.
• Protect your wireless network
  Having a wireless network compromises security whether you like it or not. When an intruder manages to gain access into your network, malicious programs can be deployed. The best thing that you can do for your network is use a strong WPA2 password.
• Back up your data regularly
  Be prepared. Your data is like a filing cabinet filled with your most precious documents, photos, journals, and personal sentiments. You should do whatever it takes to keep it safe. Back up regularly — it doesn’t matter where to. You could back up your data online or to an external hard drive, as long as you have a copy of your files somewhere else.

Don’t

• Log in to accounts in public places
  Apple stores and Wifi hotspots may seem like a convenient way for you to just hop on a computer and go online to check your email. If you do, use it with caution because you could just leave a browser open and logged in to you online banking service, Facebook, email account; or someone could be using a hijacker.
• Use one (weak) password for all of your accounts
  I’m sure you’ve heard of the metaphor, “A password like your underwear, you need to have more than one and keep changing them.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. Using a single password for all of your online accounts is a recipe for disaster.
• Open emails or attachments from people you don’t know
  If you haven’t figured this out yet, opening attachments or clicking on links in emails from people you don’t know is a big no-no.
• Send personal information, passwords and account details via email
  Once in a while, you’ll receive emails purporting to be from an online financial institution like Paypal or a bank. These emails will ask you to send your details, or perhaps reset your password. This is almost always a scam. Legitimate banks will never ask for sensitive information in this manner.
• Download software from unfamiliar sites
  Everyone loves freeware but caution has to be exercised when downloading new software from unknown sites. Always enable your antivirus scanner when downloading programs. If you can help it, try to only get applications from reputable online sources like Cnet.com
• Openly save confidential data on portable devices
  I know some people who try to disguise their email login and passwords as phone contacts. Some even have their login credentials in a note on their mobile phone. This isn’t a good idea. If you need to have a copy of your private data with you, use a good personal information manager like SafeWallet or 1Password.

Image by °Florian