Computer Safety Tips by Guardian

Maintaining good system security can seem intimidating. Fortunately, following the few simple steps listed below can provide good security in very little time.
 
1.Use antivirus software and keep it up-to-date.
Check for new updates frequently. We recommend using Malwarebytes (link back to Malwarebytes article here) and Bitdefender Gravity Zone which is a part of our Guardian Security Bundle.

2.Keep Windows & Programs up-to-date.
​Vulnerabilities in software are constantly being discovered, which put you at risk.  It’s not just Windows Updates, but updates for all the software that you use. We recommend updating your computer at least once to twice a month.

3.Use Windows firewall.
​No system that’s connected to the internet is safe without a firewall. Fortunately, Windows comes with a built in Firewall that is enabled by default.

4.Do not give out sensitive or personal information.
Do not provide your social security number, credit card information, bank account info, passwords, etc, to any websites, unless it’s displays a secure URL, with “https.” The “s” stands for “secure.” Even then, be cautious of the website you’re giving out sensitive information on. Make sure the site is well known and trusted. (i.e. Amazon, Bank of America, Chase, etc.)
Be aware of how much information is shared on social media. Identity thieves and other criminals exploit social media accounts to gain sensitive information. For example, your mother’s maiden name, other information that could be used in security questions for your online banking.

5.Keep an eye on your email.
Avoid opening unexpected email attachments, no matter who appears to have sent it. Contact the person who sent you the attachment to confirm it is legitimate. (Files to be wary of are .ZIP, .EXE, .BAT, .CMD, .VBS, .JS, and more.)
 
Most malicious emails try to spoof the sender’s name. Make sure your email client isn’t leaving you open to infection. (Keeping your email client up-to-date helps with this immensely.)

6.Be careful of Internet Scams.
Criminals think of clever ways to trick you into giving them sensitive information, or even money. Don’t get fooled by emails making unsolicited job offers, such as get rich quick schemes, or promised lotto winnings. Also, be aware of emails masquerading as someone from your bank, etc.

7.Don’t fall victim to Scareware.
If you ever find yourself browsing the web and you click on a link to a website and a big pop-up display’s claiming you have a virus and that you need to call a number to have someone fix it. This 99.9% of the time is a hoax. A quick simple fix for this is to restart your system.
 
Likewise, be careful of hoax emails claiming problems with your computer. These are designed to spread fear and uncertainty about non-existent threats.
By following these tips, you are keeping yourself better protected. Which should also prolong the life of your computer.
 
A lot of these tips and be taken care of and maintained autonomously with our Guardian Security Bundle. You can read more about it here.

Notes: If you have any issues, please contact us here. ​