As the online landscape changes, and new cyber threats emerge, cyber security has to adjust and change. Using just the security software that comes pre-installed with your Windows computer is not enough. I have been looking for solutions to the following items that I have seen customers become victimized by in the past few years.
Patching outdated software
A key component of staying safe online is keeping your computer up-to-date. Hackers and virus writers love targeting outdated software. Outdated software often contains security vulnerabilities, bugs, and performance issues that are often resolved in the latest version. These are some of the reasons why it’s essential to keep the apps updated (or “patched”). Finding an easy way for my customers to update their outdated software, like Java and Adobe Flash which hackers were actively exploiting, lead me to become a contributor for Patch My PC.
Identity Theft
Reusing the same password on different sites was not an issue until hackers started selling compromised data which identity thieves have used to compromise other websites. It is now imperative to use different, unique passwords on every website that you visit. To help with this daunting task I can install and demo a password manager program which stores your passwords and other data in a “vault” and which you need to remember only one password to access the saved password info. It can also give you a “security score” which helps identify reused and weak passwords.
Tech Support Scams
Tech support scammers have victimized unsuspecting users through rogue ads and malicious websites. Installing an ad-blocker and an add-on that blocks malicious websites, clickbait links, unwanted cryptocurrency miners can help reduce the risk of a tech support scam or a browser hijacker taking over their computer.
Ransomware
Ransomware continues to be a major concern. Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts a victim’s files. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim to restore access to the data upon payment. Anti-ransomware software should be installed, as well as taking extra precautions and having offsite backups. I have partnered with Malwarebytes and Dr. Backup to provide my customers with affordable solutions to address these issues.
Please contact Esser Consulting, LLC at (920) 735-1806 for help with addressing these cyber threats.
