Take care of your device’s security
Remember to download recommended updates from your device manufacturer or operating system provider, especially for important software such as your web browser; these are also important tools for defending your device against attacks. Regularly update your system, browser and important applications, using automatic update features whenever available. These updates can eliminate software vulnerabilities that allow hackers to monitor your activity or steal information. Windows Update is a service offered by Microsoft. It downloads and installs updates for the Microsoft Windows operating system, Internet Explorer and Outlook Express, as well as providing security updates. Patching can also be performed automatically for other systems, such as the Macintosh operating system. For mobile devices, install Android or iPhone updates, which are distributed automatically.
Install antivirus software
Antivirus software protects your device from viruses that can destroy your data, slow down or cause your device to crash, or enable spammers to send emails through your account. Antivirus software scans files and incoming emails for viruses and then removes all malicious content. You must update your antivirus software to deal with the latest “worms” circulating on the Internet. Most antivirus programs include a feature for automatically downloading updates online. In addition, make sure that the software is always running and checking the system for viruses, especially when you download files from the Internet or check your email. Set your antivirus software to check for viruses every day. You should also thoroughly scan your entire system at least twice a month.
Take care of your antispyware software
Spyware is software installed without your knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect personal data while you are online. Some types of spyware, called keyloggers, record everything you enter, including passwords and financial information. Signs that your device may be infected with spyware include a sudden increase in the number of advertisements, redirection to websites you do not want to visit, and general slowing of performance. To avoid spyware in the first place, download software only from websites you know and trust. Make sure that applications installed on your mobile device come from the Apple App Store for iPhones or Google Play for Android devices.