Read This So You Don't Get Hacked

This is a guest post by Allison Brenner.

Computer usage, and more specifically the internet, has become an integral part of our daily lives. We use it to connect to others, discover new information, handle monetary transactions, keep up to date on the latest media, and so much more. It is also no surprise that because we are so entwined with this technology that those who have less than noble actions are using this worldwide connection to perform dishonest acts.Hacking, spamming, and phishing are all ways in which people find their way into uncovering personal information about other people. By creating their own spyware, they grant themselves permission to access other people’s information. Thankfully, there are ways you can prevent your information from falling into the hands of the hackers.

Choose Your Password Carefully

Passwords are typically our number one choice of a defense tactic, which is why hackers try so hard to crack them. Unfortunately, people end up being less than creative when it comes to selecting theirs. When selecting your password, try not to use your name or the names of anyone close to you. Those are easiest for someone to guess. Also, don’t choose numbers or letters that form a predictable pattern. “QWERTY” and “1QAZ2WSX” are easy to guess. Instead, select a combination of numbers and letters (alternate capital and lowercase) so it becomes harder to guess. Frequently changing your password also enhances your safety.

Update Your Protection System

Keeping your firewall up to date is the first line of defense against letting in Trojan viruses, worms, spyware, and malaware. By constantly ensuring this protection is in place, you are taking precautions to ensure your computer is not compromised in any way. Another way to make sure your computer stays safe: clean out your cookies. While cookies themselves are not harmful, they do keep a record of your most visited sited and can store passwords and other identifying information on them.

If It Looks Suspicious – It Is

If someone posts something on your Facebook that seems out of character for them, don’t open it. Same goes for e-mails and other forms of communication. Also, be mindful of when and where a site asks for a change in your password or to write in your credit card number. If it seems suspicious and doesn’t sit well with you, chances are your gut is right. More than likely it’s someone fishing for your personal information.If you’re careful and cautious, you will find yourself protected and safe. If not, you’ll have a lot of explaining to do as to why your e-mail sent out an advertisement for male enhancement pills – or worse. Just follow your gut and be smart and you can prevent being hacked.

About the author:

Allison Brenner is a copywriter for an online career school. Visit our website to learn more about computer hacking careers.