We can’t help you with losing those few extra holiday pounds, but we have prepared a list of New Year’s resolutions to keep your computer, tablet and/or smartphone secure and functioning well. We can almost guarantee that if you make and keep these resolutions you will be less likely to need troubleshooting help down the road.
So now raise your right hand and repeat the following:
1. I resolve to use a backup program.
Our good tech friend says there are two types of people when it comes to backing up computer files – those who back up regularly, and those who wish they had. Are your important files safely backed up? If not, make it a priority to set up a system for keeping your documents, photos, emails and music safely backed up. There are both physical and cloud-based options for making and keeping backups.
2. I resolve to protect my computer against malware.
Malware is short for malicious software. It includes viruses, worms, spyware, adware and other nefarious tech bugs designed to disrupt, corrupt or disable your computer. Anti-malware scanning programs like Malwarebytes, Avast and AVG can detect and “quarantine” suspicious code in your computer’s operating system and keep it running safely.
3. I resolve to organize and safely store all my passwords.
There is hardly a week that goes by where we don’t hear the “I forgot/changed/don’t have/lost my password” blues. So common is this scenario that we started handing out small spiral password notebooks at our classes and on service calls. For this new year, collect all those scraps of paper you’ve written passwords on and assemble them all in one paper or digital document – and be sure to safeguard that document!
4. I resolve to keep the operating systems of my computer and mobile devices updated.
We know, we know, those system updates can be annoying, and sometimes new updates bring unwanted changes to the functionality of your computer or smartphone. But it is important to keep your operating system updated because the older it is, the more vulnerable it becomes to security issues. We often encounter clients who tell us that they usually ignore the update notifications, but we encourage you to start agreeing to them. If you’re not sure whether a prompt to update is legitimate, or if you have concerns about adjusting to a new, updated operating system, ask for help.
5. I resolve to never open email attachments (or click on links) from people I don’t know.
Email provides an easy venue for scammers, who embed links and attachments that can infect your computer, and in some cases trick you into entering sensitive personal information on what looks like – but is not – a legitimate website. We have received emails that claim to be from our bank and even from Apple, but are actually imposters looking to get financial or other sensitive information. Best practice is to never click on an email link or open an attachment from someone you do not know.
Keeping your tech devices safe and secure is worth the time and effort, but the process can be confusing and at times a bit stressful. A good tech professional or a tech savvy, trustworthy friend or family member can help you implement these these tech resolutions and give all your digital devices a healthy and happy 2018.
Happy New Year from Jay and Jacci
