Tips for Safe Web Browsing Using Free Anti Virus Programs
Nowadays, browsing the Internet has become a norm. No matter where we are, with just one click, we can easily look for information, share our thoughts on social networks, communicate with our colleagues, buy things, or even do banking. The Internet allows us to simplify our daily tasks. However, are we aware of the potential dangers it presents?
Criminals are now using the World Wide Web to exploit human and technical neglect. With this advancement, they saw opportunities to steal data, access your financial information, spread viruses, or take any action that will benefit themselves. To counter these cyber threats, it is critical to practice safe web browsing and use free anti virus programs. Here are some ways on how you can keep your computer free from viruses and ensure that your personal information is always secure.
Be Careful What You Download
Paying attention to what you download is one surefire way to avoid getting into trouble online. Do not download unknown or untrustworthy files from random websites. Doing this may lead you to accidentally installing malicious software or malware onto your device. Malwares can disguise as an application or program. It could gather your personal information and compromise your files. To recognize malware links, you should be familiar with the different downloadable file types such as:
- exe Files
- pdf Files
EXE files are pieces of software that can be installed onto your device when you execute them. Keep in mind to only download .exe files from legitimate websites. Avoid sites that offer illegal downloads as they often contain links and buttons that lead you to malwares.
Another common downloadable file type is Portable Document Format or PDF. It is a useful file type that may contain high quality text or image that looks like a document. It is typically used for academic papers, business documents, e-books, and more. However, take note that there are some security gaps in the .pdf format so you should avoid downloading such files especially from untrustworthy sites.
Use HTTPS
HTTP is a protocol that enables communication between different systems like a website and a computer. You can usually see http:// at your web browser’s address bar, as it is part of every website address. This protocol basically makes the internet work. However, it can easily be intercepted and read by unauthorized people as HTTP traffic is not encrypted.
For instance, when you send an email to someone over the Internet and you use HTTP, hackers could possibly read your message and monitor your internet activity. To prevent this, some websites use HTTPS to ensure security. The S stands for secure and it means that the data you transmit is encrypted. This encryption makes it harder for any third party to access your data.
Keep Your Privacy Settings On
Advertisers and hackers like to know more about you and the easiest way to do this is by monitoring your browsing and social media usage. But do not fret as you can still take charge of the information you share.
Web browsers and websites have settings that you can modify to protect your privacy online. In fact, major social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have privacy-enhancing settings. When using such, see to it that you have enabled these privacy safeguards.
Make Online Purchases from Secure Sites
Whenever you buy something online – clothes, appliances, or plane tickets – you need to input your credit card or bank account information. Since cybercriminals are very eager to get their hands on these sensitive data, you should always be cautious. Only provide these pieces of information to sites that have encrypted connections. There should be a padlock icon next to the address bar to ensure that the checkout page is secure.
Keep Your Programs Up to Date
Although free anti virus programs cannot fully protect you against every threat, it has the ability to detect and remove most malware. For this reason, you should ensure that it's always up to date. Your operating system and the applications installed on your device should always be current as this provides a vital layer of security.
If you are looking for free anti virus programs, look no further. Comodo Internet Security is one of the leading security software in the market today. It comes with protective features such as antivirus, anti-malware, anti-rootkit, anti-spyware, bot protection, auto-sandbox technology, and memory firewall. It is ready to deliver reliable security solutions that can safeguard your network and data against malicious programs and online threats. You can never go wrong with Comodo Internet Security.
