The convenience of online banking, online shopping and other online interactions that involves money and payments comes with a big responsibility on users’ part to keep their identity and money safe online. One of the ways to ensure online safety is to keep your internet connection protected. Here are some tips to do it:
Use and Regularly Update Your Anti-Virus Software
An anti-virus, anti-spyware and/or firewall software program can help safeguard both your computer and internet connections. Computers usually come with standard firewall programs, but you can also use third-party paid services. However, make sure you don’t use two firewalls at once, as they can interfere and affect the performance and efficacy of one another.
Turn off File Sharing and Network Discovery When In Public
When using public internet connection, make sure to turn off your file sharing and network discovery to keep your files and system safe from risks for being opened by anyone in the wireless network with you, not just hackers.
For Windows computers, you can turn off the file sharing option by going to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
For Mac OS X users, go to System Preferences > Sharing.
If you’re within the range of a wireless network but don’t need to use your computer or go online, simply turn off your wireless capability. Some notebooks and laptops can turn off their internet through an on/off switch. Other devices needs manual configuration (Mac computer users for example, can simply click the WiFi icon and turn of AirPort).