Computer Security Best Practices

Securing Your Computers

• Avoid using cracked software versions, as they can pose a significant threat to your data and computer security.

Secure Browsing Settings

• Browsers are a common target for hackers and malicious attackers, who exploit vulnerabilities to commit cybercrimes such as data theft, identity theft, and ransom attacks.
• Popular browsers include Google Chrome, Windows Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Netscape, each with its own capabilities and security features.
• Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox release security patches and software updates more frequently than other browsers.
• To secure your browser:
  • Set privacy settings to a high level.
  • Use separate strong password-based user groups.
  • Avoid saving passwords on browsers.
  • Do not login as an administrator unless necessary.
  • Activate safe browsing settings.
  • Attach "Do Not Track" requests to your browsing traffic.
  • Activate SSL and HTTPS settings.
• Additionally, deny or require permission for pop-ups, plugins, and other activities, and set strong computer resources and content access settings.

Scan Devices Before Data Transfer

• Devices such as flash drives, CDs, DVDs, and external hard drives can transport viruses, worms, and Trojans, and should be scanned with updated antivirus and anti-malware software before transferring data.
• Scanning devices fully reduces the threat of viruses infecting your computer.

Social Engineering Attack Precautions

• Social engineering is a cybercrime tactic that targets your data, personal information, and bank account information through media such as text messages, chatting, group discussions, telephone calls, and emails.
• Hackers use professional manners to exploit your innocence or ignorance, and may spread malware through emails, attached documents, and messages.
• Be cautious of in-person communication that may seem sincere but aims to extract sensitive information from you.

Miscellaneous Tips

• Adopting good computer security behavior is crucial, as security is a continuous process.
• Follow industry guidelines and computer security standards and procedures to keep your computer free from viruses.
• Additional tips include:
  • Avoiding free software and cracked software.
  • Not saving passwords on your computer or browsers.
  • Not providing critical information on telephone, email, or SMS.
  • Not opening files sent by unknown people.
  • Not visiting faulty websites.
  • Setting your browser settings at high security and privacy.