For many freelancers, freedom is often as important as the work. However, without an IT team, you’ll need to be responsible for protecting your devices from security threats. Each day, hackers are finding new ways to gain control of accounts and earnings. To stay safe, keep impressing your clients, and avoid the need for computer virus removal, consider the following best practices. 

3 Computer Safety Tips for Freelancers

1. Be Wary of Macros

You may use Microsoft Excel® to calculate your finances, or Word® to complete drafts. These programs may ask if you’d like to enable macros, which are automated alternatives to tedious yet common mouse/keyboard command sequences. The problem is, macros are nested in files that may harbor viruses. While they may have been designed to make your job easier, you’ll be better off disabling them. 

2. Create a Separate Email

From college alumni memos to discount newsletters from your favorite store, your inbox may have messages that don’t relate to your freelance work. In addition to being overwhelming, having a single email address will leave your personal information and messages vulnerable to hackers targeting your freelance earnings. For your own safety, make a separate account for your work as an independent contractor. Even if that email is compromised, your private information will remain secure.

3. Anticipate Phishing Scams

If you’re reaching out to clients across the globe for freelance gigs, there is a chance that disingenuous clients will reach out to you. By pretending to be interested in your services, they might trick you into handing over your routing and account numbers, social security numbers, or address.

Avoid these scams by paying close attention to every email or chat message that comes your way. If you don’t recognize the sender, do a bit more research. If there are numerous misspellings or confusing sentences, or if they ask you to resubmit personal information, you may not be dealing with an official brand or company.

If you’re hoping to avoid phishing scams and malware attacks, Microworx in Rochester, NY, will help. They have over 20 years of IT experience, from computer sales to data recovery. They also offer computer virus removal, should your laptop or desktop become hacked. To learn more about this locally owned business, visit the website. Call (585) 271-0050 to reach out to a professional about computer virus removal services. To receive tips or special offers, text JOIN to (585) 484-0755 to enroll in their Text Messaging Program. Need to know their hours? Text HOURS.