Three Key Steps to Secure PC Software

Secure pc software is the most important factor in protecting your mobile device, computer and your data from hackers. Hackers (also known as cybercriminals) break into your device or computer for a variety of reasons, such as the theft, modification and deletion of information that you consider important. Unlike other thieves, which often have legitimate purposes for the stolen goods hackers have ulterior motives. They are more interested in gaining access to your personal information, usually before you know there’s been a problem.

Passwords and passwords, as well as a virus protection program and firewalls are the three main steps to protect your computer software. If you adhere to these best practices, it’s less likely that your computer will be compromised by malware or hackers (software that locks data and demands payment for its unlocking).

Change the name of the administrator account. Be sure to select an effective password that has upper- and lowercase numbers, letters and computer symbols. Avoid using a simple password like 1234, as hackers can employ automated software to hack passwords that are simple to guess in just a few minutes.

Update your operating system and other programs. Most software updates include security fixes that help protect against hacking. Install all patches and set up automatic updates if there are any, to limit the amount of time you’re vulnerable to hackers.

If you own a laptop, or any other portable device that’s not being used, make sure the drive is encrypted. This is especially important for UF students. Windows allows users to enable encryption by going to Settings > Update and Security > Device encryption. This will make your internal drive and a majority of external drives, such as SD cards.