Your Guide to Preventing Cybersecurity Threats in 2021.

Online security is not something you should underestimate. Plenty of people think that they will avoid potential threats on their network because most hackers target companies, governments, and even non-profit organizations, leaving individuals alone. However, the reality is quite different. You need to spend some time investing in a proper cybersecurity strategy. And in case you are looking for suggestions on how to do prevent cyber security threats, this article should be of good use. 

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Step #1 – Get Reliable Antivirus Software

Start with reliable antivirus software. Whether you are using a personal computer or a laptop, it should come with a default antivirus. Now whether that is good enough is difficult to tell. For the most part, default antivirus software should do its job. However, you should consider upgrading it for that extra bit of security.

Ask recommendations from tech-savvy people you know or spend time researching the subject on the internet. You should find both free and paid antivirus software that can do a better job than your default antivirus. Becuase, one of the most impactful tool of hecker is computer virus. and having a contemporary Anti virus tool can greatly help to prevent the cyber security threats.

Step #2 – Stick to Virtual Private Networks

using vpns

The second most effective tool to prevent the cyber security threats is VPNS. Which usually hecker use too. Virtual private networks encrypt data when you access content on the internet. You get a different IP address and surf the net as if from another location. Potential attackers will have a difficult time tracking your steps and exposing you.

As a rule of thumb, you should avoid free virtual private networks. They are not secure, and, to be honest, why bother with unreliable services when good VPN providers offer a plethora of networks for only a couple of dollars per month? 

If you are a Mac owner, look for the best vpn for macbook. If you have Windows, look for reliable services for that operating system. And if you are concerned about cybersecurity while using a smartphone, find a good VPN provider for smartphones.

Step #3 – Install an Ad Blocker Extension

An ad blocker extension may not seem like a means to fight against cyber attacks. However, it can still come in handy in protecting you and other people who may use a computer.

Some online sites have aggressive ad policies. You need to click on an ad to continue viewing pages or close them to access the content. But the problem is that someone may click on an ad accidentally. 

There are ads that will redirect you to a landing page that is full of malware and viruses. In some instances, even reliable antivirus software may not be enough to prevent these threats.

You can solve the issue by installing an ad blocker. Doing so will prevent ads from appearing on the feed, and you will not click on them.

Step #4 – Create Complicated Passwords

Be smarter about creating and using online passwords. For starters, avoid the same combinations for all your accounts. If somebody finds out your password on a random online forum, they may access the social media profiles and emails.

Also, do not use personal information, like birthdays, children’s names, or anniversary dates. If you are struggling with creativity and need some help, take advantage of available online password generators.

The combinations that these generators create can be difficult to memorize. In that case, write passwords on a piece of paper and keep them there until you can remember. 

Step #5 – Shop on Reliable Online Stores

There are many online stores out there, and it is difficult to figure out where you should do your shopping. The best deals that you find may not necessarily translate to a good shopping experience.

Some websites are not that reliable, and sharing your credit card details may backfire. Therefore, stick to online shops that you know to be reliable or if they were recommended by someone you trust.

Step #6 – Install Software Updates

It is always wise decision to update software to latest versions to prevent the cyber security threats. Whether it is a smartphone or a computer, installing system updates should be one of the priorities to ensure that the device is not missing safety patches.

It may take a while to download and install updates, but you need to have some patience and wait for the process to finish regardless. Besides security, most OS updates also introduce some stability and performance improvements. 

Step #7 – Create Data Backups

It is better to be safe than sorry. Thus, you should create data backups in case something happens to the device that causes the system to wipe the files. Sure, you could argue that it is possible to restore the files, but that is not the case all the time.

Take advantage of external hard drives, memory sticks, or cloud storage and transfer your most important files there.

Step #8 – Keep up With Cybersecurity News

New threats appear regularly, and keeping up with the latest cybersecurity news will give you an advantage as you will know what to expect and take the necessary precautions.

There are multiple websites that cover cybersecurity events regularly. A quick search on Google should give you plenty of suggestions for such websites. 

By Safar Ali

Safar Ali is an Entrepreneur, Marketer, and writer. He has been writing for more than three years. And his pieces have appeared on some of the high-authority sites, including HubSpot, Mashable, Business.com, Business Insider, TechCrunch, Makeuseof, CNET, and many more.

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