Free advice
Why am I giving free advice – simple really – It is far better for everyone if we avoid problems occurring, or to take steps to minimise the impact of a problem should one occur. Read this page and look at is some general guidance on what you can do to help yourself before something goes wrong.
Passwords
Always use a good password and if possible use multi factor authentication (MFA).
Do not use things like your name and date of birth or variations on that – it’s too easy to break, and yes I have had to help folk out where someone did and ended up with all sort of problems as some naughty third party had used their email account to send out fraudulent scams.
Two factor or multi factor authentication adds a critical higher level of protection. You may think its an annoying additional stage to go through, but believe me they are worth it for the peace of mind they bring. Many systems include some form of biometric authentication such as fingerprints as an option – personally I like that! If you need help setting MFA up give me a call.
Always use a password vault
Do NOT rely on keeping a little book in your handbag with all your accounts and the current password written next to it. I know of at least one person who did that and kept the notebook in the laptop bag with the laptop – guess what – the bag was stolen with both in it……… Also – think what would happen if you lost that book! How many systems would you have to reset your password on – you would change your password if your notebook had been stolen – wouldn’t you? Please say yes!
Many 3rd party anti-malware products include a password vault – but if your one does not, consider buying one of the many available.
Take system backups
Always run system backups. This is so much easier today than it was just a few years ago!
Many systems come with optional cloud backup features which allow you to backup your system to the cloud for a minimal cost. Most of these have a free initial level which will cover a small system. A good backup is vital so you can recover your vital information (accounts, photos, genealogical research etc etc) after some sort of major problem – Disks fail – houses burn down, Thieves steal your stuff. A good backup helps you get stuff back. If you need help setting this up give me a call.
Always keep your system up to date.
Windows and MacOS will usually be configured to automatically update the system with the free fixes that the vendor/supplier sends out to supply security fixes and product enhancements. While you may find this a little annoying (my own pet hate is the way MS Office keeps updating then needing to verify the product especially when I need to do something fast) – but do NOT disable this feature unless you have a very good reason, and always make sure you re-enable it as soon as possible if you do. The patches to your systems that are installed in most cases provide vital security fixes to prevent some nasty person exploiting a bug that has been discovered.