More than ever, hackers are exploiting security flaws to break into home networks, and the United States homes are the most hit. According to Hartford Steam Boiler, one in every ten homes has experienced a cyberattack. Victims of cyberattack have minimal knowledge of security hence the increase in these attacks. However, you do not have to be a security expert to protect your home from cyberattacks. Here, you'll learn how to protect your home from a cyberattack.
Keep your software updated
Many of the security flaws exploited by attackers have been found and corrected by the software developer. However, as a result of software users not having the updated version, they still fall for the attacks. At any point in time, keep your Operating System (OS) and application software up to date and never play with security updates. It is advisable to turn on automatic updates – most programs have this feature.
Secure your network
It is no news that your home network is a crucial target for those into cyber crimes. What is new is how unsecured some people unknowingly leave their home networks. Keeping your home network secured is one of the undoings of cyber attackers. To ensure your home network is safe, you can do the following:
- Keep your home router name private.
- Change its default login details.
- Create a secure password comprising symbols, letters, and numbers.
- Use WPA2 instead of WEP.Make sure you activate your router encryption.
Secure your phone
Your smartphone brings with it a lot of ease. With it, you can control devices in the home through their apps. The disadvantage is that you give an attacker access to the home devices once he/she has your smartphone. To prevent this, secure your phone with a strong password comprising symbols, letters, and numbers.
Set up anti-virus and firewall
One of the ways to protect your home from cyberattacks is by having an anti-virus program on your system. While free anti-virus can protect you, it is best you go for paid ones. Paid anti-virus provide better security and protection. Also, make sure your firewall is on as it can identify and prevent a cyberattack.
Mind what you download and install
This is an essential point many people give little attention to. Before downloading anything from the Internet, make sure the source is credible to avoid downloading software, documents, and other files that may be infected sources. Always read the privacy policy before doing any form of downloading and installation of software. It is essential to avoid carrying out financial transactions on without an SSL certificate.
Back up your data
It is essential to back up your data regularly just in case. Backup should be done weekly and will help in cases you got attacked and denied access to your data.
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