We live in a world that is increasingly dependent on technology. The Windows operating system is the most widely used in the world, making it more vulnerable to malicious hackers. Malicious individuals are becoming more cunning and using devices to access our personal information. That’s why you should take steps to protect your data and your computer. If you do not take these steps, you will be more vulnerable to malicious programs and hackers.
Update Windows 10 and Software
Microsoft continually updates its software to fix any vulnerabilities. Updates in Windows 10 are automatic, but you should make sure they work properly by going to “Settings” and then “Update and Security,” and then clicking “Windows Update.
Encrypt your Data
Data encryption is critical, especially if you store highly sensitive information on your device. In case you lose your device and information falls into the wrong hands, your data is safe. You can use BitLocker to encrypt your data. To access BitLocker, go to Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption and enable BitLocker by clicking “Turn On BitLocker”.
Use an AntiVirus
Every device running on Windows 10 must have an antivirus. This helps identify and get rid of malware before it can cause file damage, slow performance, or cause a system crash. Installing an antivirus is not a one-time event, you must still update to the latest version. You also need to keep updating it to keep your data safe.
Read: 5 Ways to Protect Your Privacy Online and Surf without Leaving a Trace
Use Ransomeware Protection
Viruses are among the biggest malware threats, but ransomware attacks are growing rapidly. Attackers of these programs deny you access to your PC by encrypting your own data. They then proceed to demand payment, mainly in Bitcoin, before decrypting the data. There is no guarantee that after payment they will decrypt everything, if at all.
Go to Windows Defender > Virus and Threat Protection > Virus and Threat Protection Settings. Turn on the control folder access option.
Disable Ad Tracking
It is possible that hackers track your online trends while you are surfing the Internet. Sellers use this to create your user profile based on your web history. They use it to send you advertisements based on the information collected.
You can disable this under Settings > Privacy Settings > General and disable all options.
Download and Install Only Verified Applications
You should always avoid downloading and installing applications from unverified sources. Be sure to download applications from their official and verified websites. In the case of Windows 10, the application store is verified by Microsoft, which ensures that the applications do not contain malicious code.
Windows 10 has a feature that prevents users from installing applications from any unverified source except the Microsoft store. This feature ensures that no harmful programs can be automatically downloaded and embedded on your computer, without your knowledge or consent.
Also Read: 7 Tips To Protect Your Online Data and Information
Another alternative is to use a standard user account, instead of an administrator account. This prevents malicious code from trying to run by taking advantage of the administrator status. Create a new administrator account, and then from this new account, change the original account to standard.
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