How to Prevent a Computer From Being Hacked
Today more and more people are using their computer for everything from education to online bank accounts. It would be great if there were no risk online, but there are. You should take steps to prevent hackers from accessing your personal details on your computer.
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Instructions
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1
Always make backups of your files and folders and store them in a separate place than your computer.
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2
Make sure you have a good firewall. This will prevent worms, Trojan viruses and spyware from infecting your system. Some applications require that you disable your firewall, so use good judgment.
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Review your browser and email setting for security. Make sure to constantly erase your "Cookies" folder. Cookies pose almost no threat for damaging computers. Nevertheless, they do track your daily actions online. Set your "Internet Zone" for high and your "Trusted Sites" for at least medium-low security.
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4
Disable unnecessary ActiveX and JavaScript file content. Hackers often use ActiveX and JavaScript to plant viruses and other harmful elements in your programs.
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5
Install an antivirus application and make sure to set it for automatic updates. New viruses are found everyday, so make sure you update regularly.
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6
Don't open unknown email attachments. Many of these contain viruses and allow hackers to access your system.
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Only run and download programs from places you trust. Never send files from unknown sources to friends and coworkers due to the high virus risks.
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8
Turn off your computer and disconnect from the Internet. Hackers can't get into your system if your computer is off.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't perform credit card or bank transactions over a public wireless hot spot.
References
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Comments
View all 36 Comments-
Phew, thank you.
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spencd1011
Oct 03, 2008
Great steps to keep me up and runnin. -
rcamp004
Sep 14, 2008
I think the most important thing to remember is that no system is 100% safe unless you are not jacked into the net. Good common sense stuff here. On a lighter note this people are usually called Crackers since they crack systems and their defenses - hackers are only after knowledge. Switching to Firefox 3.0 and not saving your passwords help add extra security.
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Simone Hardy
Sep 13, 2008
Absolutely, common sense reminders. I had no idea hackers could gain acess even if computer is off but still plugged in. Thanks a bunch!
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Alisiane
Sep 11, 2008
Step 8 is so true and yet something I am guilty of not doing. Can't get robbed if the robbers can't access you....thanks for the commons sense but important reminder.
