The best way to safeguard your computers, mobile devices and data from hackers is to use secure PC software. Hackers (also called cybercriminals) are able to hack into your computer or other device for various reasons, which include the theft, modification and deletion of information that you consider important. In contrast to other thieves, who usually have legitimate reasons for the stolen goods hackers have ulterior motives. They are most concerned about having access to sensitive data that is not authorized. This can happen before you realize there is something wrong.

The three key steps to secure your computer software include passwords, firewalls and virus protection. If you adhere to these best practices your computer will be less vulnerable to being hacked by malware, hackers or ransomware (software that encrypts your information and demands payment in order to unlock it).

Change the name of your administrator account. Be sure to select an extremely secure password that includes lower and uppercase numbers, letters, and computer symbols. Do not use a password that is simple like 1234 because hackers can use automated software to hack passwords that are easy to guess in a matter of minutes.

Keep your operating system (OS) and other software up-to-date. The http://www.pcinfoblog.com/how-to-build-a-security-environment-with-virtual-data-room majority of software updates include security patches to help guard against hackers. Install all patches and turn on automatic updates if available, to reduce the amount of time you’re vulnerable to hackers.

If you own a laptop or any other portable device that isn’t being used, ensure that the drive is secured. This is especially important for UF Students. You can enable encryption in Windows by opening Settings > Update & security > Device encryption. This will protect your entire internal drive and most external drives, including SD cards.