How to Avoid Hacking

Protect your computer system with security software.

Hacking is a growing concern. Vast networks of malware-controlled PCs, called botnets, can hack unprotected computers automatically. Online accounts like Yahoo and Gmail can be hacked, even if your computer is secure. Computers aren't the only devices at risk -- your cell phone's voicemail can be broken into, and mobile devices such as smartphones, notebooks and tablets can be targeted by hackers. Some basic precautions can make your security much tighter.

Protect your Computer

Keep your software updated, especially your operating system. Install a firewall. Many wireless Internet routers have a hardware firewall, while operating systems such as Windows include a software firewall that you can turn on. Install and maintain anti-virus and anti-spyware software; some malicious software can give hackers a back door into your system. You can find both free and commercial security software to download online. Consider a less virus-prone operating system such as Ubuntu.

Passwords

Always choose a strong password. Passwords like "secret" or "12345" are too easy to guess, as are names or dates. Real words are vulnerable to a dictionary attack, where a program tries every word in a dictionary as your password. Choose a long password -- 12 characters at least, if possible -- containing letters, numbers and symbols if possible. Consider using a password manager such as LastPass or KeePass.

Secure Your Online Accounts

Choose a strong password. Make sure your computer is free of malware. Don't leave your account logged in on a shared or public terminal. Don't write down your password where other people can see it or tell anyone what it is. Inform yourself about scams designed to steal your account, like phishing. Make sure you always know the answer to your security question in case you need to recover your account.

Website Hacks

Your website is quite valuable to online criminals: Your webspace can be used to host ads that make money for them, rather than for you; illegal material such as pornography or phishing pages that steal others' information; or to host malicious code that can turn your visitors' computers into part of a botnet or steal their data. Protect your website by using a strong password and adjusting your settings to prevent common attacks.

Cell Phones

If you have remote-access voicemail set up on your phone, someone else could access it if they know the pin. Mobile providers' default PINs tend to be simple and easy to guess, such as 0000. Change the PIN to something only you will know. Don't use obvious numbers such as dates of birth.

Smartphones and Other Mobile Devices

Choose strong passwords for your smartphone, tablet or notebook; don't store your passwords on the device. Turn off your GPS, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when not in use; criminals can use these connections to steal data or take over your device completely. Never send sensitive information from your mobile device unencrypted. Be careful when installing applications; these can contain malware that makes your devices easier to hack.

References

• "Hacking For Dummies"; Kevin Beaver, et al.; 2010
• The Bitbag; Helpful Tips To Protect Your Online Data; Timell Grant; July 2011 http://www.thebitbag.com/2011/07/08/helpful-tips-to-protect-your-online-data/
• 25 Years of Programming; Website Security Precautions; Steven Whitney; April 5, 2011
• The Guardian: How to Avoid Getting Your Phone Hacked; July 8, 2011
• Advanced Network Systems: Seven Tips for Securing Mobile Workers; May 2011
• ITworld: How to Prevent Your Smartphone from Being Hacked; Jim Lynch; July 21, 2011

Resources

• ScienceDaily: Protect Yourself From Computer Hackers
• LastPass: Password Manager, Form Filler, Password Management
• KeePass: Password Safe