Cyberattacks and computer crimes are on the rise and, as technology advances, so too does the ability of diverse groups or individuals to victimize you. Although there is no fail-safe way to avoid computer crime completely, there are some simple measures you can take to prevent you from falling prey to cyberattacks.
Identify and Avoid Scareware Tactics
Have you ever seen one of those ominous notices or messages on your computer screen, claiming that your computer is under attack by a virus? It is more likely to be “scareware.” Internet security experts and writers coined the term to identify worthless software products that try to trick you into believing your computer is at risk of infection. The messages helpfully suggest that you download and pay for their software package to immediately remove the threat. Such messages are alarming and convince many people to download the software, only to find out the software is useless; it was just a hoax to get the victim to pay for unneeded software.
Safeguard Your Personal Data – Use Multiple Passwords
Despite being told to use multiple passwords to protect your personal data, many people use the same password on multiple accounts, as a matter of convenience. However, when using the same password, you expose yourself to hackers who use sophisticated software to steal your personal data. If hackers obtain just one of your passwords, they can access to all your other accounts, and use that information to build an entirely new profile of someone else, using your information.
Stay Away From Questionable Sites
In the real world, you stay away from suspicious places in order to be safe. When you visit internet sites with questionable content, such as adult websites or sites offering fake or misleading news, you put your computer at risk of a cyberattack. Most adult sites are hit with a myriad of “malvertising” campaigns. These are advertisements that continuously pop-up while visiting a website. In most cases, the advertisements are malware attacks, designed to steal your personal data.
Keep Your Sensitive Information Low-Tech
Instead of using spreadsheets and digital files for your sensitive data, such as passwords and banking information, keep it in a paper notebook or an old computer without internet access. Consider using file encryption software or other tools to make your digital files containing personal data difficult for hackers to read.
If you find yourself a victim of computer crime, contact the experienced criminal lawyer Portland Maine who can wade through the complexities of computer crime. Richard S. Berne is a Maine criminal defense attorney who understands the intricacies of computer crime and can help you restore your good name.