How to prevent a Security Threat
Everyone’s worst work nightmare
So, you’ve got a good thing going. You’re getting through your to-do list at the speed that you’re chugging coffee. Suddenly the weekend doesn’t seem like such a distant place. Until the worst thing that could happen, happens. The computer starts slowing down and… crash. Something harmful has wriggled its way onto your system and who knows what data it’s stealing.
Increase in Security Threats
I hope for your sake that the scenario above doesn’t sound familiar. However recently, we’ve noticed a drastic increase in security threat cases (dodgy emails, suspicious phone calls etc) from our clients. And, although we’re sure you love talking to us – you probably have a lot on, without a security breach getting in the way. Let us help you now before you use up your precious time, money and effort to fix any problems.
Protect your information
There are common ways that fraudsters use to steal your information. The reason that they keep using them and we keep knocking on about them is because they work. Percentages of cyber-attacks are just going up according to the ‘Internet Security Threat Report 2018’ by Symantec. Below are some simple precautions you can take to protect yourselves.
- Emails
Don’t open attachments if you’re not expecting the email. Don’t trust an email even if it’s come from your sister, boss or it uses your first name. Lots of email scams make the email looks like it’s come from a big company like PayPal, eBay or Microsoft. Before you press any links or open any attachments, have a good look at it. Has it come from the official email address? Does the email look a bit off? Are there spelling/grammar errors? Is the link that they want you to press actually sending you to the verified website? If you’re unsure if it’s a trustworthy email – contact the sender directly. See Lynn’s blog for advice on spotting fake emails https://bit.ly/2t9HKcR
- Phone Calls
If you receive a phone call about a problem with your computer or internet – put the phone down. Even if they sound like they know about your computer/device, if you haven’t contacted them first – it’s not true. Huge companies like Microsoft, Apple or BT are not going to call you to tell you about problems on your device. (Even though I’m sure you’re a total laugh and have some great ideas to share with them.) See Lynn’s blog for further tips on dodgy phone calls https://bit.ly/2I2yOdS
- Public Wi-Fi
If you’re anything like me, your face lights up when you see your phone connect to public Wi-Fi when you’re in a shopping centre, hotel or coffee shop. Time to check your emails, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram etc… However, the risks of people accessing what you’re looking at and stealing your information aren’t worth it. See Lynn’s blog on the dangers of using public Wi-Fi https://bit.ly/2ynRjtX
- Pop-Ups
Now, you’re an intelligent human. You know not to claim your million-pound prize when it starts flashing at you on your computer in a red box. But, how about a reliable looking box that politely tells you that your system is infected? That trustworthy-looking button that you need to press to fix the problem is a trap. Do not be fooled. Give us a call if you’re worried about any infections on your system.
- Updates
I know I know, they’re a pain. Yet, lots of programmes need to be updated because of security. If you’re not on the latest version of a programme/software, your information is not as secure until you update it.
Trust your gut
We can’t possibly name everything you need to be careful of. Just remember: don’t open, answer, click, tick or submit anything that looks or sounds a bit off. Trust your gut – delete it or hang up. If you’re worried that it’s something important, there’s no harm in asking us and we can check it out for you.
Software Solutions
There are ways to make the risks of you being victim to an online security threat a lot lower, which we use ourselves. Many businesses are ramping up their security to avoid a data breach (especially since GDPR came into force). If you’ve considered using proper anti-virus before but it’s never happened, now is the time to act.
Anti-Virus Protection – Panda Adaptive Defence 360
Panda AD360 guarantees complete protection for devices and servers by classifying 100% of processes. Contact us for more information on using this software.
Panda Systems Management
Systems Management is a tool to manage and monitor all the devices that your company uses. This means you can pinpoint any trouble or updates quickly and effectively. Contact us for more information on using this software.
Some more helpful blogs…
Can you spot the fake? https://bit.ly/2t9HKcR
“Someone’s been on the phone saying there’s a problem with my computer” https://bit.ly/2I2yOdS
Risks of using Public Wi-Fi https://bit.ly/2ynRjtX