Your device is like the Alamo. It’s fortified and sits in one place. But there’s also a gigantic army just outside its walls, eager to break through and destroy everything within. That army will never rest or retreat. The moment you crack a window open, the enemy will swarm you.
1. Do the two-step
First, enable two-factor authentication (2FA for short). So many people don’t do this on their favorite sites and apps. Frankly, it’s just dumb not to take action with all the data breaches at this point. Once enabled, to logon to your accounts, you must enter your password as well as an additional verification, such as a one-time access code usualy sent via text to your cell phone.
2. Use the right Wi-Fi setting
An unsecured Wi-Fi network is one of the biggest security risks. If your network isn't adequately protected, anyone with basic security know-how could break in, rummaging freely through your personal data. The most widely used standard is Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (or WPA2).
3. Choose an effective password
Most of us have the wrong idea about passwords. We think they have to be convoluted messes, like F$%Th5l2K!&. The theory that passwords should be nonsensical and hard to remember reigned for years.
4. Have a good defense
My top pick ships with the PC you’ve ordered: Windows Defender, Microsoft's internally developed anti-malware application. Not only does this program thoroughly scan your computer for harmful software, but it's the first program to get updates and zero-day defenses from Microsoft's cybersecurity labs and partners.
5. Keep on top of things
No matter what your operating system, you need to download the latest version. Not only does this provide the latest features, but these updates frequently include security patches for zero-day exploits.
These bugs, often found by researchers, are critically dangerous. In many cases, frequently patching your system is the only way to combat critical security flaws, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for updates as they come in.
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