Only the lazy and inattentive should fall victim to security
problems, with a couple of exceptions.
In short turn off, clean up, filter what you can, and
take your personal security seriously.
Turn off devices when you are not using them. This includes your phone. Do you really have to have a phone or tablet powered
up overnight? The bad guys do, for that
is when they work most.
Clean up your files on your phone and all computers; in
fact, do the maintenance that all the experts tell you from running virus checks
to double deleting spam email. It should be regular, not spot.
Most protection systems can be intrusive, but not all. Actively manage your spam filters and file
filters to suit your use, but put them in place both on your devices and at the
system host. You can always switch them
off when pressed for time, but then turn the filters back on.
Two pieces of advice on personal security. First, have multiple accounts (both financial
and email) to direct transactions or communication to a serious account for serious
matters, and to other accounts for anything that can be risky. Gmail accounts
are for silly things…and let the spam go there.
As for money, a small balance credit card or small balance PayPal
account is perfect for small transactions. Keep your bank account to yourself,
unless you have several, and find a no fee credit card to use as a spare.
The second piece of advice pertains to passwords. Yes your dog and your mother’s maiden name is
OK for silly things, but if confidentiality and finance is involved you should
invest your time is complex password creation and updates. The experts say that 14 characters using
phrases with numbers is best. Your dog won’t do, you never know what you might
step in.
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