Modern technology makes life easier, but it also increases your risk for online theft. From accessing bank accounts to stealing your identity, hackers wait around every digital corner looking for an opportunity to strike. According to the IT team at Microworx in Rochester, NY, there are a few simple tricks to reduce your risk of getting hacked. Below, these computer virus removal experts explain the do’s and don’ts of computer security.

Do:

Avoid opening suspicious emails.

Most email service providers utilize technology that catches spam before it reaches the inbox, but that doesn’t mean some dangerous ones don’t get through. In many cases, these emails will look legitimate, but once you click on a link, it creates a backdoor to your system for hacker access. Prevent the need for computer virus removal by avoiding all emails from addresses you don’t recognize. When they show up in the inbox, delete them right away.

Create strong passwords.

A strong password is your first defense against digital thieves. Avoid passwords of names or dates that are relevant to your life. Instead, choose a long phrase that incorporates numbers, special characters, and spaces, if possible. If one of your accounts is hacked, schedule a computer virus removal right away, as there will likely be malware hidden on your system.

Destroy all Hard Drives before recycling computers

IF your computer has personal information on it, make sure the drive is wiped prior to recycling or donating. Either remove it from the computer and take a hammer to it or bring it to someone at Microworx who can perform a DoD wipe on the drive for a minimal charge.

Don’t:

Share personal information.

Whether on the internet or in-person, avoid sharing personal information. Knowing personal details makes it much easier for hackers to navigate their way into your accounts, especially when it comes to security questions. Also, don’t keep copies of personal documents, like birth certificates, Social Security cards, and driver’s license images, on any devices.

Leave devices unlocked.

Always set a password for the computer, even when you only use it for personal matters or school. With the chaos of everyday life, it’s incredibly easy to walk off and leave your device unattended. If it falls into the wrong hands, a password-free computer provides tons of valuable information to thieves.

Taking the right security measures will help reduce your system’s risk of infection. However, if your device is targeted, turn to the team at Microworx in Monroe County for computer virus removal. This locally owned and operated computer repair and sales company offers a variety of services, including data recovery, system wiping, and antimalware installation. Learn more about their computer virus removal process online. Call (585) 271-0050 to schedule an appointment with one of their technicians.