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How do I Protect Against Computer Hacking?

By Alison Faria
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 38,769
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Computers are used on a regular basis for things like work, school, or leisure activities. These activities, although seemingly harmless, can result in computer hacking. Installing anti-virus software, avoiding P2P file sharing software, deleting emails from unknown senders, and utilizing complex passwords are all ways that computers can be protected against hackers.

When a computer is running without anti-virus software, the chances are greater that hackers can intrude via an Internet connection and steal personal information. Anti-virus software blocks hackers from uploading malicious files onto a person's computer. For additional security, Internet connections can be protected from hackers by enabling a computer's firewall.

P2P file sharing software is often used for computer hacking. This software is usually used to share movies and music. Attached to these movie and music files can sometimes be a keystroke logger, which many people are unaware of. Keystroke loggers transmit anything that is typed on one computer to a hacker's computer, which can sometimes leading to identity theft.

It is not uncommon for an email address to get messages from unknown senders sent to it. In such a situation, these emails should not be opened, since they are often used in computer hacking to gain access to a person's information. This is especially true if the email includes an attachment. Instead, suspicious emails should be deleted upon receipt. Various email providers also have privacy filters that can screen for such emails.

A computer is often used for private information that requires a password to access. Online accounts that require passwords can be at risk, especially in places where financial information is stored. Generally passwords with easily identifiable information, such as names and birthdays, should be avoided. Instead, people can protect against computer hackers by using a mix of numbers and letters in combinations that would be difficult for a hacker to figure out.

Wireless networks are often computer hacking targets. When they are first installed, they usually have no security. A hacker who is in the same area as an unsecured wireless network can invade that network to get information. A wireless network can be secured by logging into its router and setting the security so that a password is required to access the network.

Computer hacking utilizes new viruses on regular basis. As a result, any security software that is on a computer should be updated on a regular basis, such as weekly. Most software will update itself, but in some cases it might also require manual updates.

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Discussion Comments
By anon311393 — On Jan 01, 2013

I download a lot of files though P2P but I try to be smart about it rather than stop altogether. I had a virus once and I then decided to think hard about what kind of antivirus I have on my computer and I decided to use Unthreat Antivirus and I haven't looked back.

By GraniteChief — On Oct 11, 2010

I've been using computers for 15 years and I have never had any kind of computer security issues. I just have one question for you who do. What kind of websites are you looking at? I have heard that certain sites make you more susceptible to malicious attacks but like I said, I have never had a problem before. Perhaps there is a certain type of activity that you can avoid to avoid issues with your personal computer system.

By JoseJames — On Oct 11, 2010

Hacking can exist at so many levels on the computer environment that a complete security package is often the best solution for a home computer use. Even if you use your computer for light use or heavy use, there are security firms that sell comprehensive software capable of securing your system from viruses, malware and even outside network attacks.

This combination is critical when trying to secure a computer from the malicious intent of computer hackers across the globe.

Not everyone can afford this type of security software suite but often there are budget deals as well as free offers that come with new computers or software packages. Either way most computer users can find a secure software package that will secure themselves from the outside world.

By MrPolitic99 — On Oct 11, 2010

I think that one of the most effective use of computer security is a software firewall. While they are still susceptible to being disabled there is a layer of security that a firewall provides that no other system can.

When a firewall completely disables a system from connecting to a hacker's attack, the result is a secure form of complete disconnection. If an attacking computer is simply denied any connection access then any weird and backdoor way of controlling the target computer is simply not possible.

Because of this quality, firewalls are the first line of defense in computer security but they can be the first and final if use in a proper way.

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