I have repeated countless times never to shop online or give sensitive, personal information from a computer. Not ever. No matter what security measures you feel you’ve taken. I stand by that information.
However, what if you are using your own laptop at a wireless hot spot? This is somewhat better, however, there are still dangers. Follow these minimal steps:
- Make certain all of your security programs are current, such as Windows (particularly including Vista). You have a complete suite of security apps, right? Otherwise, get them!
At a minimum, you need to have an anti-virus application, a firewall, and two anti-spyware programs. A spyware blocker tool is also quite helpful since it’s always better to prevent a problem, rather than have to take care of it later.
A custom HOSTS file is good to have too since it will keep you away from known bad and dangerous websites, and help protect you from spyware. Have a look at a search engine for a good one.
If you haven’t ever used one before, it may seem complicated at first glance. It is not. Just take the time to read and comprehend it.
It’s a great idea to upgrade and run all of your security scans before going to the hot spot, which means you understand your notebook is clean, to begin with.
- Before giving sensitive information online, check that you are on a site that begins with [https://. .]. And you find a gold padlock on the lower side of your display (upper right in IE7).
The s means secure and encrypted, while this isn’t foolproof. Criminal sites can be encrypted also, but this is rare.
When you would like to visit the website of your bank, PayPal, broker, utility company, credit card company, etc. you must type the address in your browser yourself. Do not just click a link within an email; you might wind up on a phishing (fake) website. Don’t you dare copy and paste an address from an email address. For that matter, email isn’t secure in any way, so never send sensitive information to a single email address.
- Disable file sharing, so nobody can peek into your shared folders. Right-click your connection and click Properties.
Select the Networking tab and clear the checkbox marked File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks.
- Use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, even if you’re able to.
Do not use anything which may easily be guessed, like your favorite restaurant, nearby faculty, the title of your puppy, your title, birth date, street in which you live, etc. Don’t use the same password for all your websites.
- Finally, here are a few low-tech but significant tips. Watch behind and about you! Before entering IDs or passwords look around and make sure no one is watching you.
Check your bank and credit card statements carefully, once they arrive. If anything seems strange or wrong, contact the company immediately.
Limit the number of individuals who use your laptop at home and the workplace. The more people who use it, the less control you have over it, and also the higher the possibility that something awful will happen.
Give other users limited or guest accounts. This will limit their activities on your device, and prevent them from downloading anything. To install additional accounts, click Start, Control Panel, User Accounts.
If you often connect at wireless hot spots, print out this guide, and slide it in your laptop carrying case. Review it frequently. surfing.
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Industrial Communications is an Essential Service Provider and can be OPEN
On behalf of Industrial Communications, we send our wishes for your continued security and health as we continue to address COVID-19’s impact collectively. As an organization that owns and functions critical wireless communications infrastructure (our towers and Connect Plus Two-way Radio Network) which also maintains and supports critical Public Safety and Emergency Response communications networks as well as major Cell Carrier networks important to E-911 services and mobile phone support, Industrial Communications is a COVID-19 Essential Services supplier under the Public Works and Communications guidelines set forth by the State.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, we’ll continue to evaluate our performance and communicate any changes as quickly as possible. As always, thank you for your business and support, and know we’re here for you during this difficult time. Visit this page and check out a few of the recent blogs we posted.
