Top Five Tips to Stop Computer Hackers

There are dangers everywhere online. Far too many people don’t take the threats seriously. They feel that simply not opening attachments or keeping away from adult websites is all it takes to keep your computer safe. That is absolutely false. The most harmless looking sites can and do install what is known as “drive-by” Malware. Much of the time, you don’t even know it has been done. Having an Anti-Virus just isn’t enough these days.

What exactly is “hacking”? That’s a very good question. A hacker is someone who tries to ‘break into’ a computer or network in order to steal information (such as passwords or banking info), changing information (such as replacing your message with a smutty one) or destroying files and documents. A computer is only susceptible to a hacker while it is connected to the Internet. Let’s go over some ways you can keep yourself safe.

• Use a Firewall What’s that? You have a hardware firewall? That is excellent, but I still recommend using a software one, as well. Antivirus software will scan incoming files and e-mails but a fire wall stands guard outside the system to block any communications or information exchanges from sources that don’t have your permission. There are a few good free firewalls available, or you can purchase any number of reputable ones.
• Heighten your Browser Security Settings Most hackers target browsers such as Internet Explorer or Netscape. You can find the security feature by going to “Tools” or “Options” on your task bar. You’ll want to set custom settings, so that YOU control your level of security. Why trust it to the company who made the browser? It’s your computer, and your data.
• Consider Port Knocking Port Knocking is a method of externally opening ports on a firewall by generating a connection attempt on a set of pre-specified closed ports. In some routers, this is called a “Port Trigger”. This makes it MUCH more difficult for a hacker to gain access.
• Add a BIOS Password This is a password of your choosing that must be entered before booting the operating system. Also set the Supervisor password in the BIOS so BIOS Setup can’t be entered without it. Also, If you leave your own account logged in, use the Windows Key + L to lock the computer (and/or set the screensaver/power saving) when you step away from the computer and require a password to resume.
• Set Specific User Account Restrictions Make other users “limited” or “regular” accounts. There is an excellent tutorial on the Microsoft website that will guide you through doing this. If it’s your computer… you should be the only one with full administrative access.

These are only a few tips from my perspective to help keep you safer. If you would like more in-depth help, consider ordering and reading the The Hacker’s Nightmare. This is an excellent e-book full of information about absolutely all types of computer security topics.

Happy (SAFE!) computing!