Social Networking and Security Tips

Unfortunately, we live in a world where some individuals think that causing virtual aggravation and loss of time and money is entertaining and productive. Ever since we have been connected to the digital highway through internet access, computers have been vulnerable to malicious intrusion by programs that were designed with intent to do harm. The amount of money that organizations and consumers have spent in securing their computer data and company networks is overwhelming. Everyone can protect himself or herself by making sure they have a security plan in place by equipping the computers with the necessary defense mechanisms.
Social Engineering Awareness:
One of the major elements of a security plan is to increase the knowledge of the common user and to make sure they are aware of the risks and how to take precautions. Consumers must be aware of the different methods that are used in order to breach the security system in place. Surprisingly, many of the tactics are not very technical at all. It is very important to know whether or not the sites you are visiting are secure and how your data is being used while you are visiting these sites. One should definitely use extra caution when downloading files and even clicking on links. Consumers should also beware of direct social engineering tactics used to persuade you to willingly give your information to unauthorized individuals. Never share your passwords with anyone. Do not be willing to give out private information without verifying the individual who is requesting the information. Always remember to log out of your viewing sessions and system especially when using public facilities. Although going online leaves you susceptible as a target for hackers, it is very important to understand that the common sense things that you do can help protect you before you even have to use the security programs.
Appropriate User Profiles:
Setting a user profile with limited rights is also another way to keep files from downloading onto a computer. Corporate organizations have commonly used this method to restrict employees from accessing, authorizing or allowing certain online activities. Individual consumers should be familiar with setting up administrative account, user accounts and guest accounts. Based on the designated security level, administrators can block the user from being able to download, modify or access programs. Special privileges would be setup in order for them to be able to override the security settings. Setting up user profiles is the sure and simple method that needs to be included in a security plan. One of the drawbacks of user profiles is that they may be too restrictive and have to be modified to keep up with the changes in accessibility and authorization.
Proactive & Reactive Malware Protection:
Do not wait until your system has been compromised to try to find programs to help get rid of malware. Because malicious programs are rapidly created and duplicated, it is very important to be proactive in securing your system and data. Many solid free programs that exist can help protect consumers against viruses, spyware, etc. Many times consumers have the software installed but for some reason forget to turn it on. In order for the software to be effective, it has to be in effect at the time of any possible attack. In addition, it would be wise to have a copy of these programs on a flash drive just in case you are unable to access the original system to clean it up. It is best to be proactive and to avoid malicious intrusion, but always important to have a plan B and be able to clean up the system and bring it back up to working condition without too much trouble. When all else fails, please highly consider having a BACKUP. Backup your data as often as possible and keep the backup in a safe location separate from the original system just in case the system has to be restored.