In this day and age, cyber security is more important than ever. Computer security is essentially protecting your computer and the information it contains from unauthorized use.
Unfortunately, protecting your computer can be a difficult task. Hackers are experienced and are often able to bypass firewalls that claim to be able to protect your computer. Securing your computer is an absolute must if you want to keep private information private.
Why Browser Security Matters
When browsing the internet on your computer, there’s a good chance you’re using the web browser in default settings, without having set up the proper security measures.
It’s important to note that enhanced browser security is vital for everyone, including everyday users. If an unauthorized user gains access to your computer, they have the potential to steal valuable information, including your identity, and cause permanent damage to your computer’s system. An online criminal is aware of vulnerabilities in a computer system that allow them to steal your personal information, cause damage to important files, and even install software that will steal data right from your computer. None of those things are ideal.
Your computer is at risk for more than just thieves. You also have to worry about viruses and malware. A virus is a software specifically created to damage your computer system. Malware is software created to copy valuable information or even take control of your computer.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can protect your computer system from the numerous threats it faces every day.
How to Protect Your Browser
There’s a long list of options to choose from when it comes to protecting your computer and your personal information. For one, it’s important to be aware of the sites you’re visiting. If a link seems suspicious or the website appears to be a bit sketchy, it may be better to avoid it all together. It’s not worth the risk.
Along the same line, you want to be extremely cautious about any and all downloads. Only download software from their mother sites and avoid any downloads without a trustworthy reputation.
When it comes time to check your email, don’t even open junk mail or suspicious links. As tempting as some subject lines may be, it’s not worth the potential damage it could cause. It’s also helpful to use a spam filter to prevent spam emails from getting into your inbox, so you don’t accidentally allow a virus or malware or gain access to your computer.
If you haven’t yet installed a popup blocker, close any popups that appear on your screen. Whatever you do, don’t click on them.
As much as it may make sense to add more than one antivirus program, you’re much better off sticking to just one. If you have to programs running at the same time, it could cause a conflict, essentially making both systems useless. Just double check to make sure the antivirus program you use has anti-malware software included for optimal safety.
It’s also important to activate your firewall. Firewalls are responsible for monitoring every access made to your computer. It works as an extra security measure to activate your computer’s original firewall, as well as a third party software firewall if you have one.
Firefox Plugins for Enhanced Browser Security
You can rest a little easier knowing there are hundreds of apps available to help keep your computer safe. For internet users who prefer Firefox as your web browser, we’ve created a list of some of the top-rated plugins and their features for enhanced browser security.
Adblock Plus
- Blocks ads, banners, and more annoying pop-ups
- Blocks all known malware domains
NoScript Security Suite
- Winner of the “PC World World Class Award”
- Allows JavaScript and Java to run only from domains you trust
- Protects against XSS, Cross-zone DNS binding, router hacking, and other Clickjacking attacks
Ghostery
- Individual tracker control allows you to trust or block a tracker based on individual features
- Instant reports of the trackers for each website you go to
- Large tracker database
Webutation
- Quickly find out how safe a website is
- Popup score shows how safe the website you’ve visited is based on a 0-100 score (100 being the safest)
- Information collected from Google Safebrowsing, Norton Antivirus, Web of Trust, phishing and malware blacklists, and more
Security Sanitizer
- Uses three techniques to clear web browser cache:
- File system simple deletion, “US DoD 5220” method, and random data overwriting
Disconnect
- Prevents tracking cookies
- Allows you to disable social and content tracking
- Blocks identifying cookies
Seek Professional Help
If the thought of trying to protect your computer and your information on your own is nothing short of intimidating, don’t panic. There are companies whose sole purpose is to ensure your computer is safe from malicious threats. Cyber security companies work tirelessly to protect your valuable software and information.
Like with many other tasks, it may be most beneficial to hire a professional to make sure the job is done correctly and in the best way possible. Cyber security isn’t something to take lightly. Unless you’re sure you’re able to take necessary measures yourself to protect your computer system, it may be better left in the hands of a professional security expert working for a cyber-security company.
Keeping Your Computer Secure
As technology advances so does the vast knowledge of hackers and other threats to cyber security. It can seem a bit overwhelming to think about trying to protect your computer and personal information. But rest assured, if you take necessary precautions and use the right software and programs, your information is safe.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if the task is too overwhelming. You’d much rather be safe with the peace of mind that your information is protected from the numerous threats it faces every day. Cyber security is essential in today’s world and there are far too many options available to keep your computer secure, not to take advantage of as many of them as you can.