In the first part, we fully explained the importance of securing a computer or mobile device and provided solutions. As you know, securing your computer or mobile device protects your personal information and online privacy. Therefore, it is necessary to try in every possible way to secure these devices. In the following, we will provide useful solutions in this field. Also, use the methods presented in the first section.
Beware of suspicious emails and links
As you know, email is one of the most important communication methods in today’s world, and many people use it to receive and send their messages. However, many hackers also use email to carry out cyber attacks. Some cyber-attacks through email are:
1- Phishing: In this type of attack, hackers use emails like those sent from trusted organizations to direct people to fake web pages similar to real pages and try to access people’s personal and sensitive information through them do
2- Infiltrating the system: In this type of attack, hackers try to penetrate the user’s system by using emails that contain malicious attachments and gain access to their sensitive and personal information.
3- Encrypting files: In this attack, hackers try to charge users to open the file by using emails containing encrypted files and earn profit through it.
4- Unseen attacks: Hackers can use other methods to send emails containing malware to users and try to infiltrate users’ systems.
Methods of preventing cyber sentences through email
To avoid this type of attack, it is necessary for users to manage their email carefully and always use reliable and valid sources to receive and respond to their emails. Also, installing and updating security software such as antivirus is always best. Here are some tips to be careful about suspicious emails and links:
1- Check the transmitter
Check the sender’s email address or username before opening an email or clicking on a link. Beware of emails from unfamiliar or suspicious email addresses.
2- Check the source
If an email or link appears from a legitimate source, such as a bank or social media site, verify that it is authentic before clicking on it. Check the URL and look for any spelling or grammar mistakes.
3- Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources
Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or viruses.
4- Do not provide personal information
Be wary of emails or messages that ask you to provide personal information, such as your login credentials or credit card number. Legitimate organizations will never ask you to provide this information via email.
5- Be careful of urgent or threatening messages
Phishing attacks often use urgent or threatening language to create a sense of urgency. Be wary of messages that demand immediate action or threaten consequences for non-compliance.
6- Use spam filters
Enable spam filters in your email account to help filter suspicious messages and reduce the chance of receiving phishing emails.
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that allows you to create a secure and encrypted connection to the Internet. When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a private server that helps protect your online privacy and security. Here are some ways that using a VPN can help you stay safe online.
1- Protect your online privacy
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it more difficult for hackers and other third parties to intercept and access your personal information.
2- Secure access to content
If you access the Internet through a public Wi-Fi network, a VPN can help protect your sensitive data from being intercepted by others on the same network. It can also help you bypass content restrictions in certain countries or regions.
3- Hide your IP address
Your IP address is a unique identifier that can be used to track your online activity. You can hide your IP address using a VPN and protect your online anonymity.
4- Prevent ISP tracking
ISPs (Internet Service Providers) can track your online activity and use it for targeted advertising or other purposes. A VPN can prevent this by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your activity from your ISP.
5- Securing remote access
A VPN can provide a secure and encrypted connection if you need to access a company network or other sensitive resources remotely.
When choosing a VPN service, choosing a reputable provider with strong encryption, no-logging policies, and other security features is important. It’s also important to keep your VPN software device up to date to protect you from the latest security vulnerabilities.
Disable unnecessary features
Disabling unnecessary features on your computer or mobile device can help improve your security and privacy as well as optimize its performance. Below are some features that you can disable.
1- Bluetooth
Disable if you are not using Bluetooth to connect to other devices. Bluetooth can be a potential security risk that allows attackers to access your device or steal your personal information.
2- Wi-Fi Direct
Wi-Fi Direct allows devices to connect directly without the need for a wireless access point. If you are not using Wi-Fi Direct, disable it to reduce the risk of unauthorized connections.
3- File and printer sharing
If you are not sharing files or printers on your network, disable this feature to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your files.
4- Remote desktop
Disable this feature if you do not need to access the remote computer. Remote desktops can be a potential security risk if not configured properly.
5- Location services
Disable your device’s location services if you don’t use location-based apps. This can help protect your privacy and prevent apps from tracking your location.
6- Automatic update
While keeping your software up to date is important, some apps may enable automatic updates by default. Disable automatic updates for programs you don’t use often, as this can help optimize your computer’s performance and reduce unnecessary network traffic.
Disabling unnecessary features can help reduce the attack surface of your device and improve its performance. However, it’s important to proceed with caution and only disable features you’re sure you don’t need. Disabling the wrong feature can cause unintended consequences or reduce the security of your device.
Back up your data
Backing up your data is an important step in protecting your data and ensuring you can recover it in the event of a disaster, such as a hardware failure, theft, or malware attack. Here are some tips for data backup.
1- Choose a backup method
Several backup methods are available, including external hard drives, cloud storage, and network-attached storage (NAS). Choose the method that works best for you and provides the backup and recovery capabilities you need.
2- Make regular backups
Set up a regular backup schedule to ensure your data is always up to date. How often you back up depends on your needs and how often your data changes.
3- Store backups off-site
Storing backups offsite can help protect your data in the event of a physical disaster, such as a fire or flood. Keep a backup in a safe place away from your original location.
4- Test your backup copies
Test your backups regularly to make sure they are working properly and that you can restore your data if needed. This can help you identify and address any problems before they become critical.
5- Encrypt your backups
Encrypting backups can help protect your data in the event of theft or unauthorized access. Use strong encryption and store the encryption key in a safe place
6- Make several backups
Consider keeping multiple backup copies of your data, especially for critical data. This can help you have a backup available in case a backup fails.
By regularly backing up your data, you can help protect your data and ensure you can recover it in the event of a disaster. Choosing the best backup method for you and testing your backups to ensure they work regularly is important.