Every day, cybercriminals around the world develop new ways to attack computers and steal information. Malware, ransomware, and viruses cost individuals millions of dollars every year, with time and money spent on computer repair accounting for a major part of those expenses. Staying one step ahead of hackers and protecting your valuable data starts with avoiding some of the most common security mistakes PC users make.

What Mistakes Can Compromise Your PC?

1. Poor Password Management 

Using the same password for all your accounts makes logging in easier, but it also leaves you vulnerable to being hacked. When hackers are successful with a password, they will try it everywhere to see what they can get — and in many cases, it's a lot. 

Use a password manager to securely create and store unique passwords for your accounts, and when possible, use two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection. 

2. Not Updating Software

When you receive a notification that your computer's operating system or software needs an update, do not ignore the message — doing so could lead to computer repair. Updates usually include patches and other fixes that address security vulnerabilities, and failing to install them could give a hacker a point of entry to your machine. 

3. Not Backing Up Your Computer 

If something goes wrong and you need professional computer repair, a cloud backup of all your data ensures that you can access files from another device and restore your computer to its previous state once it's repaired. 

Cloud storage solutions allow you to schedule backups, ensuring that all of your documents, photos, and other data aren't lost if something goes wrong. 

4. Clicking Unfamiliar Links 

Even computer-savvy individuals can fall prey to sophisticated phishing attacks, which can infect their computer with a virus or ransomware. Antivirus software will block most phishing and spam messages, but there's always a possibility that something could slip through. 

Never click on links in unsolicited emails, and when in doubt, reach out to the supposed sender to ensure they actually sent the message. Remember that no business will ever ask you to share your password or personal information via email. 

5. Not Encrypting Your Hard Drive 

Encrypting your hard drive prevents prying eyes from seeing your data if your computer is stolen. Invest in a program that scrambles all the data on the drive and protects it with a password. This way, only someone with the right credentials will be able to read the information, rendering it useless to a thief. 

Implementing these security measures can help protect your computer and data against hackers. If something does go wrong, and you need computer repair,  turn to the technicians at RadioActive for help. They can fix your computer in their Kalispell, MT, shop or a team member can come to you. Learn more about their services online, or call (406) 257-5999 for an appointment.