Windows Defender is good enough to fish out basic attacks and stop them from attacking your computer. But it can only do so much. And it is much more restricted than you might think at stopping attacks. In fact, it needs the user’s input on how to deal with a potential threat.
This precious window is what most viruses use when attacking your computer. You could install a paid, 3rd party software to protect your computer. But the first step in protecting your PC is prevention. In this blog, we will discuss how you can avoid and prevent malware and viruses from getting onto your PC.
And if you do happen to get a virus on your PC, then you can consider getting the help of IT services. Zeeks IT is the go-to IT support service in Brisbane.
Now, onto the blog:
Preventing Computer Viruses
1. Strong Passwords
You might have heard this before, but even today, some of the most common passwords are just “12345678”, “password,” or a birthday or name. These are too simple, and anyone can crack them with ease.
You can take all other steps to protect your PC, but if your password is too easy to crack, then the hacker or virus could easily be fed into your computer. Always make sure to have a strong password with different kinds of characters.
2. Hard Drive FailuKeep Software Up To Date
The world of viruses and malware is ever-evolving. Every day, hackers come up with new ways to break or penetrate a system or parts of it. And because of that, companies like Windows, Google, Apple, and more constantly release security patches and updates. They ensure that your user experience is safe from even the most imperceptible threats.
But if you don’t update your OS or the software installed on it, then you are leaving it massively vulnerable. Always keep everything on your PC up to date.
3. Use Antivirus Software
Antivirus software help. No antivirus will ever guarantee you 100% protection, but there are many popular choices that offer protection close to it. So, it is highly recommended that you install antivirus software on your PC to add that extra but essential layer of security.
4. Keep An Eye Out For Email Phishing Scams
Email phishing scams have been around for as long as email has been around. But even today, they still happen. Over 30% of all security breaches are caused by phishing scams.
And hackers have gotten very creative too. It can be really hard to tell these days whether the email you received is legitimate or not. Still, there are some tell-tale signs that you can use to identify whether an email is legitimate or not.
How To Identify A Phishy Email:
- The email address claims to be from Netflix or PayPal but ends in @gmail.
- Poor grammar.
- Spelling mistakes.
- Unexpected or suspicious attachments.
- Unrecognized buttons or hyperlinks.
- Asking for personal or billing information.
5. Educate Those Around You
A child or someone who isn’t exactly tech-savvy won’t be able to tell the difference between a legitimate email or a phishing email. They will open it without much preamble. And that is how most phishing attacks happen.
So, whether you have employees or whether it’s your family, make sure they understand the difference between a legitimate or phishing email. And if they are too young to understand, then it is best to keep your PC locked or away from them.
To Sum Up
Sometimes, despite all your best efforts, a virus or malware is unavoidable. So, if your PC does get infected, then you should contact Zeeks IT. We will send out our technicians, and they will perform an on-site virus removal or fix for your computer.
Zeeks IT provides IT solutions in Brisbane for very affordable rates. Avail today!