Secure PC software is essential to safeguarding your mobile device, computer and data from hackers. Hackers (also called cybercriminals) are able to hack into your computer or other device for various reasons, which include taking, altering and deleting information you value. As opposed to other thieves, who often have legitimate uses for the stolen items hackers are motivated by malicious motives. They are most concerned about having access to sensitive data nord vs express that is not authorized. This could occur before you realize there is something wrong.
Passwords, a virus prevention program and firewalls are the three main steps to secure your PC software. If you follow these recommended practices, it’s less likely that your computer will be hacked by malware or hackers (software that locks data and requires payment for its unlocking).
Change the name of the administrator account. Be sure to select a strong password that contains upper- and lowercase letters, numbers and computer symbols. Do not use a short password like 1234 as hackers are able to use automated tools to break passwords that are easy to guess in just a few minutes.
Update your operating system and other software. The majority of software updates include security fixes that protect against hacking. Install all patches and turn on automatic updates if they are they are available to reduce the amount of time you’re vulnerable to intrusions.
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 you to enable encryption by going to Settings > Update and Security > Device encryption. This will secure the entire internal drive as well as most external drives like SD cards.
