Computer Security Ideas for College Students

Computer Security Ideas for College Students

Over the past decade teens and young adults have been the two groups most likely to be online. Studies show almost all teenagers have access to a smartphone and 45% claim they’re online „almost continually‘.

With the increase in the amount of technological advancements that the internet offers, cybersecurity is more important in the present than ever before. Keeping your networks, systems and programs safe from digital attacks is a growing security concern, particularly for college students.

In any location wherever you are, a laptop is essential to complete projects, studying materials and even taking classes! Without having a laptop, you’ll be impossible to complete your duties in the classroom, so it’s crucial to keep your computer as well as its contents secure and safe.

While safety on campus is a major concern for the majority of parents, parents are likely to be concerned about their security on the internet.

Okay… there’s Computer Security Day, so we’ve collected a checklist of guidelines to help keep your computer and account safe from hackers and thieves!

1. Make sure you are using a firewall and antivirus and antispyware system

Many universities offer security applications for free in particular because some campuses offer just one or two wifi networks across the entire campus, making it even easier for hackers and hackers to access your personal information and allow hackers to access hundreds of users with just one breach.read about it companionlink.com from Our Articles

2. Be wary of clicking on links or attachments included in emails or messages

If you get an email or message from someone else you do not have contact with (or even someone you know) that contains links or attachments that appear like they may be spam… do not open them! Take it down immediately and put them in your trash container. The trash can be full of harmful viruses.

3. Place your money in a credit-card

This may seem crazy… as I’m sure many of you have heard about the debt credit cards can be a source of debt if not paid off correctly, but shopping online using a credit card is much more secure than with a debit card. The debit card that you use to shop online is tied to your bank account. That means when someone steals your debit card details, they will have complete access to all the money in your account. Be sure to look over the credit card statement regularly and notify your bank as soon as possible if you experience any suspicious activity. If you’re approved for credit card, ensure you be sure to keep your monthly payments on track to ensure you aren’t charged expensive fees for making payments late.

4. Make backups of your files

We highly suggest investing in portable hard drives, especially during the time of the finals. Nothing is more frustrating than being unable to complete months of work as a result of security breaches. There are always risks, and you should be prepared to deal with any eventuality. While you’re unlikely to be victimized, you might spill a cup of coffee on your laptop and end up losing everything. Better to be safe then sorry!

5. Lock your dorm room

Never leave your dorm room unlocked! Not only is your laptop stored there, but it also houses all your personal items (and your roommate’stoo, if they have one). Be careful who you provide access to your space as well. Although someone might appear friendly but you need to be certain that nobody has access to your bedroom without your presence. Don’t keep your laptop in your vehicle because it might be taken away and broken into.

6. Wipe old devices clean

If you purchase a brand new laptop or phone while on campus, you should make sure to scrub your old one completely clean prior to reselling. It’s sometimes a challenge performing this task correctly so be sure to follow the directions on the internet closely. You can also make sure you take your device to a local store or library to get additional assistance.

7. Use strong passwords and make sure to mix it up

When you create passwords for your accounts, select one that includes capital letters and unique characters. Don’t use phrases like „password“ or „123456′. Make sure to make different versions of your password for different accounts. By using the identical password for all accounts it could lead to the security of all your accounts.

8. Be smart on social media

While social media is an excellent platform for updating the family and friends of what is happening to you personally, you’re prudent to track who’s you follow on social media. Based on the number of followers you have you ought to think about snooping your posts on social media. If you have many people following you, be mindful of posting the location of your home, etc. because this could give people an indication that are not home as well as your belongings home are left unsupervised. We suggest keeping your profile private and monitoring your followers to ensure your pictures and information are safe.

9. Enable two-factor authentication

Most email providers are now offering this option to secure accounts. Although it may seem unimportant but it is a great way to increase the security of your password and also protects you from being hacked. It is possible to set this up on your mobile device or by using an app.

10. Don’t give out your passwords

They exist for a reason They are created to be confidential and for your eyes only. Be cautious of sharing your password, because giving someone this private information provides them with direct acces to all your account. Sharing your password on Netflix is caring however, when your password for Netflix is also your password for all your accounts… perhaps it’s better to keep it to yourself.