Security: 10 Tips to Protect You From Computer Exploitation

Here are 10 tips to protect you from computer exploitation. While no single method will completely eliminate the risks, these practices together will reduce the threat of possible malicious exploitation of your computer.

1. Connect to the secure network. When the computer is connected to the Internet, it will also be connected to millions of other computers. As a result, potential attackers can access it. The information travels from the Internet to your home network through your modem, first, and then through your router to finally reach your machine. That's why it's crucial to protect your router, which is the first secure device to receive information from the Internet. So, be sure to protect it.

2. Enable and configure a firewall. A firewall is a device that controls the flow of information between your computer and the Internet like a router. Most modern operating systems include firewall software. In addition, most home routers have an integrated firewall. Therefore, remember to consult your documentation and choose a strong password to restrict any unauthorized access.

3. Install and use one free antivirus and antispyware. Installing antivirus and antispyware software and updating it is a critical step in protecting you from computer exploitation. Make sure to update them regularly. Note: For advanced users, installing an antivirus is not very valuable, as they take care of the security of their systems according to their own knowledge. However, for regular internet users, this step is important and we encourage them to stick to it.

4. Delete unnecessary software. Attackers can attack your computer by exploiting the software's vulnerabilities  (its flaws and weaknesses). As a result, the less software you have installed, the less potential fields of attack will be available. Remove any software you find unnecessary after you have verified that this maneuver is safe. Removing unnecessary software, disabling unnecessary services, and modifying unnecessary default features also destroys various attack possibilities.

5. Operate based on the principle of least privileges. In most cases of malware infection, malware can only function according to the rights of the logged-in user. To reduce its impact in the event of an infection, consider using a standard or restricted user account for daily activities. Register only with the administrator account (which has access to all operating system privileges) when you need to install or remove the software or change your computer's system settings.

6. Protect your browser. Web browsers generally do not have secure default settings. Securing your browser is another important step in improving the security of your computer. In fact, an increasing number of attacks take advantage of the benefits of web browsers. Make sure to use a trusted server and avoid unnecessary plug-ins/add-ons.

7. Start software updates and enable future automatic updates. Most software publishers publish updates to fix or repair vulnerabilities, vulnerabilities, and weaknesses in their programs. Keep your software up to date because intruders can exploit these bugs to attack your machine.

8. Use the right security practices in the wild world of the Web. Be careful with attachments and untrusted links. Generally, malware is transmitted by clicking on an attachment or link that launches the malware. Do not do this unless you are sure of its reliability, even if it comes from someone around you. Finally, be careful when transmitting confidential information.

9. Do not install or use illegal or unauthorized software. You can compromise the security of your data and break the law.

10. If it is sensitive, avoid keeping it on to protect you from computer exploitation. If some data is too sensitive for you or your company, we recommend that you do not keep it on your computer. Keep them on a work device or on an external device (in encrypted format) that is not connected to a network.