Over the past decade teenagers and young adults have always been those two groups that are most likely to be online. Research shows that 95% of teens have access to a smartphone and that 45% of them say they’re on the internet ‘almost daily’.

With the increasing presence and data that the internet has security is becoming more crucial more so than ever. Making sure that your systems, networks and programs protected from digital threats is now a more pressing issue, particularly for college students.

Wherever you’re studying across the globe, a laptop is essential for completing assignments, study materials, and even taking classes! Without having a laptop, you’ll be impossible to complete your duties as a student. Therefore, you must ensure that your laptop and its contents secure and safe.

While campus safety is often a major concern for the majority of parents, they may also worry for their security on the internet.

Okay… there’s Computer Security Day, so we’ve made a list of strategies to help you keep your computer and account safe from hackers and thieves!

1. Use a firewall, antivirus and antispyware system

Many colleges offer to install a security application for free with the understanding that some campuses have only two or three wifi networks to all of the campus, making it even more easy for hackers to steal your personal information and allowing them to target hundreds of users via just one breach.Read here companionlink At our site

2. Don’t click on suspicious links as well as attachments contained in emails and messages.

If you get an email or text message from someone you do not know (or even someone you do know) that has links or attachments that appear to be like spam… do not open the email or attachments! Clean up immediately and remove them from your trash can. These can contain harmful viruses.

3. Make an investment in a credit card

It may sound crazy… as I’m sure you’ve heard about the debt credit card can induce if they’re paid back in full, but shopping on the internet using a credit card can be safer than using a debit. Your debit card is connected to your bank account. So, if someone steals your debit card’s details it will be able to gain an immediate access to every money that is in your account. Check your credit card account frequently and inform your bank immediately in the event of any suspicious or suspicious activity. If you’re able to obtain a credit card, be sure to keep your monthly payments on track to ensure you aren’t charged high fees for late payments.

4. Backup your files

We strongly recommend investing in a portable hard drive, especially during finals season. Nothing is more frustrating than the loss of months of hard work as a result of security breaches. The unexpected happens, which is why it’s important to be prepared for anything. Although you’re not likely to be compromised, you can spill a cup of coffee on your laptop or computer and then lose everything. It is better to be secure than sorry!

5. Lock your dorm room

Never leave your dorm room unlocked! Your laptop is not the only thing kept there, but also all of your personal belongings (and your roommate’sas well, if your roommate has one). Be cautious who you allow access to your space and also. Even though someone may appear friendly However, you must make sure that nobody gets access to your room in the absence of you. Additionally, don’t store devices in your car, as it could easily become a target for theft and break-in.

6. Wipe old devices clean

If you buy a fresh smartphone or laptop while on campus, you should make certain to wipe the old device clean prior selling. It’s not always easy making this process work so be sure to comply with the instructions provided online or take your device to a local store or library to get additional assistance.

7. Use strong passwords and create a mix of passwords

When you create passwords for your accounts, choose one that is comprised of the capital letters as well as unique characters. Avoid using phrases such as “password” or “123456′. Also, make sure you use different variations of your password on different accounts. If you use the identical password for every one of them can lead to hackers’ access to all of your accounts.

8. Be smart on social media

Although social media is an excellent medium to inform your friends and family on what is happening in your life, it’s definitely beneficial to check who’s using your profile. Based on the number of followers you have you ought to think about snooping the content you post with your social network. If you have a large number of followers, take care when posting your locations, etc. as this could give someone an indication that you were away and that your belongings back at home are not being watched. We recommend keeping your accounts private and monitoring your social media accounts to ensure that your images as well as information are secure.

9. Enable two-factor authentication

Most email providers now offer this feature to protect accounts. Although it may seem unimportant but it is a great way to increase the strength of your password and protects you from being targeted by hackers. This can be set up through your mobile phone or with an application.

10. Don’t divulge your passwords

The reason passwords exist is that they are important and are intended to be secret and for your eyes only. Be careful when sharing your password, as divulging confidential details gives them direct control over your online accounts. Sharing your password with Netflix is a sign of caring however if your password for Netflix is also your password for everything… may be best to keep it to yourself.