It may be hard to believe but yes, you can just download an innocent-looking file off a website and your computer could shut down in a second. That's how easy your system can get infected and if you're not careful enough, you'll end up losing important documents every now and then. Worse, you could end up being robbed of your identity. Many things could happen in between and if you simply want to avoid any of these cyber menaces, it is crucial to ensure that your computer's security settings are up to date. Common sense also goes a long way in deciding whether or not a file is safe for downloading. If you're simply not sure, don't risk it.
If you're using Windows Vista, XP, 2000 or ME, you can easily select an option for automatic security updates while earlier systems must be done manually. A firewall is always basic in protecting your computer as well as anti-virus software which, when set to automatically scan email attachments, could help much in preventing hackers who might be snooping around for your personal information such as banking passwords, social security number and the like. Those spam emails should be blocked as well to further control the number of potentially harmful emails.
If malware such as viruses, worms, trojans and the like do manage their way through your computer, the only thing you can do is get rid of it them as soon as possible. Remember that the longer they stay in your system, the more damage they're able to create. If you're a computer whiz, you may as well take out those malware yourself either manually or with the use of a software intended for the purpose. If you're not an expert, there's no reason trying to act like one. Besides, you might only end up risking your computer's safety even more. Do seek out the help of a professional when dealing with this type of problems.
It is definitely a good idea to protect yourself while you're online by updating your security settings regularly as well as scanning your system for malicious codes or programs that you may have downloaded unknowingly. You can also get these unwanted elements through links in your email which you may have clicked. Because things can get very shady around the Internet, it's never advisable for one to have the least thing to do with any link or file whose integrity is unknown. All it takes is one false move and you could be compromising your whole system in a matter of seconds. This is, of course, something you'd never want to happen so always be sure about the things you do online.
Another way of protecting yourself online is by installing a software that allows you to change your IP address while you surf. When you have your real IP hidden, you can be sure that no hacker will find his way to your computer. After all, that path has been put out of view which means the hacker may try to make you his victim, but he'll never be successful because he'll never know the right path to you. In fact, he could be mislead by the fake IP which your software supplied for you to use.
In other words, when it comes to online security, anonymity can save your system and if this is exactly the level of safety you want, get an IP changer.
