If you want to keep your device more secure, there are some standard things you need to do. And this applies to all modern devices such as PCs, laptops and your personal or work smartphone. Fortunately, all steps are easy. But they require a proactive approach to be safer.

Make Sure You Have Good Antivirus Software

Malicious programs can damage your computer or steal your personal information. But antivirus software can find and get rid of them before they can. Some devices already have virus protection software on them. McAfee is a good example. But you might want to use an existing subscription. So it's best to get rid of them (https://setapp.com/how-to/how-to-uninstall-mcafee-on-mac), so they don't cause a conflict.

Keep Your Device More Secure with OS Updates

For security, it's important to keep your device up to date. Developers of software often put out updates and patches to fix known security holes that attackers could take advantage of. Hackers are always looking for and taking advantage of weaknesses, so if you don't install updates, your system could be open to attacks. You can set up your device to update itself so that your operating system and software are always up to date with the latest security patches.

Get to Grips with Proper Passwords

A strong password is at least 12 characters long and has a mix of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't use common words or phrases, personal information, or patterns like "123456" or "password" that are easy to figure out. In addition to using strong passwords, it is important to use a different password for each account. This way, if one account is broken into, a hacker won't be able to get into all of your accounts and sell your data to criminals.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

With multi-factor authentication, you need more than just a password to get into an account. This step could involve getting a text message with a code, using an authenticator app, or using a physical security key. Even if your password is stolen, an attacker won't be able to get into your account without this extra step. MFA is a standard feature of many online services, such as email providers, social media sites, and financial services, in a bid to reduce malicious access.

Use a Reliable VPN App

A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, encrypts your internet traffic. This makes it harder for hackers to read your data and steal it. VPNs are great for giving your online activity an extra layer of security. Here are some important things to know about using your VPN software:

VPNs hide your IP address, which makes it hard to keep track of what you do online.
Choose a reputable provider that doesn't keep track of what you do on the internet.
When using public Wi-Fi, a VPN can add an extra layer of security.
VPNs can't protect you from every kind of cyber threat.
It's important to use more than just a VPN to keep your information safe.
The best VPNs that work well (like NordVPN) aren't the ones that are free.
A VPN alongside a poor internet connection can make your speed very slow.
Good VPN packages offer great security when working from home.
Most packages are compatible across a wide range of devices with one subscription.

Usually, you need to install VPN software on your device and connect to a VPN server in order to use a VPN. There are many VPN providers, both free and paid, to choose from. And it's important to choose a provider like NordVPN that doesn't keep a record of what you do online.

Stay Aware of Harmful Links

When you click on links or download files, be careful, especially if they come from sources you don't know. To keep your PC and personal information safe, you should not click on suspicious links or download unknown attachments. Cybercriminals often use phishing scams to trick people into clicking on malicious links or downloading malware, which can compromise the security of your PC, steal your personal information, and sell it for money on the dark web.

Keep Your Firewall On

A firewall is a program that keeps an eye on and controls both incoming and outgoing traffic. It can help stop people from getting in without permission. Most modern operating systems, like Windows and macOS, come with a firewall already set up. But you can turn it off by accident. Or you can use firewall software that is separate. A hardware firewall is another option. A hardware firewall is usually built into a router or other network device, while a software firewall is installed.

Don't Use Public Wi-Fi to Keep Your Device More Secure

Public Wi-Fi is often not safe because it is not encrypted. And about 25% of people on vacation have their private information stolen through the public internet. So, don't do sensitive things like banking or shopping online when in public. Public Wi-Fi networks, like those in coffee shops, airports, and hotels, can be dangerous because they are often not secure. This means that anyone on the same network could steal your personal data by intercepting your internet traffic.

Regularly Back Up Data

Make regular copies of your important files and documents so you won't lose them if your computer is hacked or if the system crashes. You can store your backups in the cloud or on an external hard drive. You can also store your files online with a cloud storage service like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox. This lets you get to your files from anywhere and gives you extra security in case your PC gets lost or stolen. Also, you should test your backups and passwords.

Summary

Cyber threats are everywhere. And having your data stolen is a nightmare. Also, in many cases, it cannot be recovered. However, you can take some steps to keep your device more secure. Install reputable antivirus software, use a reliable VPN package and back up your data often.