I have repeated countless times to not shop online or supply sensitive, personal information from a public computer. Not ever. Regardless of what security measures you think you’ve taken. I stand by that advice.
However, what if you’re using your laptop at a wireless hot spot? This is a bit better, but there are still dangers. Stick to the following minimal steps:
- Make sure all your security programs are up to date, such as Windows (especially including Vista). You have a complete suite of security apps, right? If not, get them!
At a minimum, you need to have an anti-virus program, a firewall, and two antivirus programs. A spyware blocker tool can be also quite useful since it’s almost always better to prevent an issue, rather than have to take care of it later.
A custom HOSTS file is good to have too, as it is going to keep you away from known dangerous and bad websites and help protect you from spyware. Have a look at a search engine for a great one.
In case you have never used one before, it may seem complicated at first glance. It is not. Take the opportunity to read and understand it.
It is a great idea to update and run all of your security scans before visiting the hot spot, so you understand your notebook is clean to start with.
- Before giving sensitive information online, check that you are on a website that starts with [https://. .]. And you see a golden padlock on the lower side of your display (upper right in IE7).
The s means secure and encrypted, while this isn’t foolproof. Criminal websites can be encrypted also, but that is rare.
Do not simply click a link within an email; you could wind up at a phishing (imitation ) site. Do not even copy and paste the address from an email address. For that matter, email is not secure at all, so never send sensitive information in a single email.
- Disable file sharing, so no one can peek into your shared folders. Click Start, Control Panel, Network Connections. Right-click your link and click on Properties.
Click on OK and restart your computer.
- Change your passwords every month or 2. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, even if you’re able to.
Do not use anything that can readily be guessed, like your favorite restaurant, a nearby college, the title of your dog, your title, birth date, the road on which you live, etc. Do not use the same password for all your websites.
- Finally, below are some low-tech but important tips. Watch behind and about you! Prior to entering IDs or passwords, look around and be sure no one is watching you.
If anything seems strange or wrong, contact the company immediately.
Restrict the number of individuals who use your notebook at home and the workplace. The more people using it, the less control you have over it, and also the greater the chance that something awful will occur.
Give other users limited or guest accounts. This will limit their activities on your device, and prevent them from downloading anything.
If you frequently connect at wireless hot spots, print out this article, and slide it into your laptop carrying case. Review it frequently. surfing.
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Industrial Communications is an Essential Service Provider and can be OPEN
On behalf of Industrial Communications, we send our wishes for your continued security and health as responding to COVID19‘s influence collectively. As a company that owns and functions critical wireless communications infrastructure (our towers and Connect Plus Two-way Radio Network) which also maintains and supports crucial Public Safety and Emergency Response communications networks in addition to significant Cell Carrier networks essential to E-911 providers and mobile phone service, Industrial Communications is a COVID-19 Essential Services supplier under the Public Works and Communications guidelines put forth by the State.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, we’ll continue to evaluate our performance and convey any changes as rapidly as possible. As always, thank you for your business and support, and please know we’re here for you through this challenging time. Visit this great section on their site to learn more.
