Email is still the most popular way for sending and receiving documents in the workplace. However, it’s also a convenient and effective way for hackers and scammers to infect your computer with viruses, wipe out your data or even steal your personal information. A virus that gets into a company network can have serious and costly consequences as well as damaging your brand and reputation. In this article, we look at some simple steps you can take to protect your company network or home PC.
For ultimate piece of mind though we recommend using our spam filtering service and anti-virus software.
- Be cautious opening email attachments
Just because an email looks like it has come from your mum, best mate or a longstanding client doesn’t mean that it has. Some viruses are very clever and can ‘spoof’ the return address making it look as though it has come from someone else. So if the attachment is unsolicited, uses an odd subject heading or just doesn’t seem right then it’s best to be on the safe side and check with the sender before opening. - Delete spam emails from your inbox
As well as being annoying, spam emails may potentially contain viruses or malware. Don’t let curiosity get the better of you. Simply delete them or identify them as spam without opening them. It is also important is to keep an eye out for ‘phishing’ emails. If you receive an email saying that your account will be closed unless you confirm billing information or account details, it’s unlikely to be genuine. Don’t click on any links and instead check with the sender. - Be wary of downloading from the internet
Only consider downloading documents and files from reputable websites. Before you do, make sure that your anti-virus program has checked the files are safe to be opened.
Be very careful when downloading free software from the internet, especially screensavers, games or browser add-ons as they often come with unwanted adware content. - Update and backup regularly
Keeping your operating system, web browser and email program updated is an important first line of defense. In addition, regularly backing up your files means that even if a virus does infect your files, you can always replace them with the latest backup version. - Change passwords often and make them strong
It’s a bad idea to have the same password for years on end, especially if it’s a weak one that identity thieves can easily decipher. Avoid using birthdays or initials and instead be creative and use random combinations of words, numbers and symbols. - Install the latest anti-virus software and spam filtering
Here at Belton IT Nexus, we understand how important it is for you to have confidence in the security and safety of your computer systems. In addition to the common-sense steps we’ve outlined above, we recommend installing our anti-virus software and using our spam filtering service. As well as being easy to install and setup, our anti-virus software has the best detection record of any product in the market. Our spam filtering service will save you time, as well as giving you piece of mind.
It’s our job to keep on top of the latest internet security features and we are constantly updating our products and services in response to new threats. Let us deal with the headache of cyber security for you.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help.
