Tag Archive for: Mistakes

Browser Mistakes Tech Experts Say You Should Stop Making To Protect Your Device From Hackers And Viruses

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You may spend more time thinking about your apps these days — which apps are more likely to sell your data, which apps are killing your battery power, etc. But your browsers like Safari and Google Chrome may continue to fly under the radar a bit more. If you’re like most of us, you may take advantage of your browsers and assume they’re just there and that they require zero maintenance or thought. But this isn’t the entire truth. 

What you aren’t doing to your browser could be contributing to putting you at greater risk for hackers and viruses. Tech experts say these are the top browser mistakes you should stop making. 

Not Updating Your Browser

Browsers are similar to apps in that both need to be updated whenever updates become available. Your browser may show signs of little issues, like bugs, that can make it more vulnerable to hackers and viruses. App developers will release updates when they discovered problems with the apps, and downloading these updates can ensure your app is safer and more secure. If a browser update becomes available, make sure you download it ASAP.

Saving Passwords In Your Browser

 

At first, it seems like an extreme convenience. Your browser offers to save your passwords, and what could go wrong? At worst, this will allow you to not have to keep track of yet another complex password. But think of this from the perspective of a hacker who gains entry into your phone or computer — you’ve handed them your most important passwords on a silver platter when you save them in your browser. Even if a website asks to save your password in your browser, don’t give into the temptation.

Never Clearing Your Cookies and Cache

 

Your browser can get loaded down fast with information from websites that it stores in its cookies and cache. Although this isn’t an immediate security problem or one that leaves you more vulnerable to hackers, not clearing your cache can result in glitches when you visit certain sites and it can slow your device down. Resolve this by clearing your cache in Safari by going to Safari > Preferences > Advanced tab > Preferences > Empty Cache. On Chrome, go to More > Clear Browsing Data.

 

Keep these three browser mistakes in mind when…

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5 dumb tech security mistakes you’re making

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You might think you have a solid cybersecurity plan. You use strong passwords and defensive measures like VPNs and firewalls. But even the strongest shield gets dented from time to time.

It’s hard to remember all the settings you’ve adjusted and the passwords you’ve made over the years. Let this be your reminder to go in and make a few quick changes to protect yourself. 

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YOUR SMART ASSISTANT IS LISTENING, BUT DOES THAT IMPACT THE ADS YOU SEE?

1. Using the same PIN for your phone lock screen as your bank

You don’t want to remember a bunch of codes. They’re easy to forget, so you keep it simple and reuse the same PIN.

Don’t give in to temptation! It could lead you to financial ruin. Say you’re relaxing in the coffee shop, and you open your phone. Someone standing behind you could notice your code, write it down and start using it to access your bank account within minutes.

To protect yourself, use different PINs. If you’re struggling to remember them all, consider a password manager. 

A mobile phone passcode security screen

A mobile phone passcode security screen is seen in this photo illustration. (Photo by STR/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

2. You keep Bluetooth on 24/7

Bluetooth is a short-range wireless radio technology that works similarly to Wi-Fi and cellular networks but performs simpler tasks at shorter ranges. You don’t need a cellular signal or network connection to use Bluetooth, and it doesn’t use data.

As with a Wi-Fi network or other connection, Bluetooth has vulnerabilities. Hackers and scammers must be close to you to use Bluetooth to hijack your phone — but in just about any public space, you’re arm’s length from strangers.

There are a couple of ways to disable Bluetooth on your iPhone. Go to Settings > Bluetooth and switch it off. You can also swipe down from the top right of your screen to open the Control Center and tap the Bluetooth icon.

TO DO: CHANGE YOUR SMART SPEAKER SETTINGS BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS

The same steps work for Android phones: Go to Settings > Connected Devices >…

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I’m a Wi-Fi expert – don’t make five huge security mistakes that can put security and speed at risk

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WI-FI users have been urged to not make five security mistakes that can cost them.

It’s no secret that Wi-Fi has greatly improved the way we browse the internet.

Wi-Fi users have been urged to not make five security mistakes that can cost them

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Wi-Fi users have been urged to not make five security mistakes that can cost themCredit: Alamy

But, as with all things technological, Wi-Fi routers are also susceptible to hacking.

By breaking into vulnerable servers, devices, and networks, hackers can steal your data and eventually your money.

To help mitigate this risk, cybersecurity experts have shared with Wi-Fi users some important tips that can help.

PLACE IN CENTRAL LOCATION

Experts recommend placing your Wi-Fi router in a central location in your home.

There are many benefits to this, including improved speeds and better connectivity with devices.

However, what many users aren’t aware of is that this can also keep your Wi-Fi network more secure.

That’s because the signal is not being sent outside of the confines of your home, therefore cannot be accessed by others.

USE A VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across your Wi-Fi network.

This allows users to safely share and receive data without the prying eyes of nefarious third parties.

VPNs work by scrambling your personal information so that without the correct decryption key, it can’t be read by hackers.

As such, enabling VPN software can help to keep your network secure.

CHANGE WI-FI PASSWORD OFTEN

You are likely aware that having stronger passwords keeps you safer from hackers.

But did you know that experts also recommend changing your password often?

Changing your credentials frequently makes it harder for threat actors to hack your system.

What’s more, if your password is compromised or breached without your knowledge, this rectifies that problem.

NOT UPDATING ROUTER FIRMWARE

It’s important to update your router regularly so it runs smoothly and also has the latest security software uploaded.

Generally, you need to find out your router’s IP address and type that into a web browser to access an admin page.

Use your router’s username and password to log in and access the settings.

Check if there are any software updates available and select to download them when…

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7 Ransomware Mistakes Enterprises Make Before, During and After an Attack — Redmondmag.com

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7 Ransomware Mistakes Enterprises Make Before, During and After an Attack

Date: Thursday, March 30 at 11am PT / 2pm ET

Do you want to know what everyone else is doing wrong when it comes to ransomware? At Veeam, our experts have seen it all—both big and small. Join us and we’ll share a mix of ransomware related business, organizational, procedural, and technical decision we wish enterprises just wouldn’t.

Register now!

Date: 03/30/2023

Time: 11:00am PT


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