How to keep pc protected and virus free (offline/online)?

Every user wants to stay safer online and offline. As there are large no of viruses/malware/Trojan roam around on the internet, Apart from using best Antivirus, you can follow these six essential steps to protect your devices, information, and family on the Internet.

Every piece of software is going to have some kind of exploit, but there are several things you can do in order to keep yourself and your device safe no matter what PC or operating system you use.

1. Be careful what type of sites you visit. There are many dishonest websites out there that will readily infect your machine with a virus or adware. 

2. Instead of downloading music, go to the store and buy the CD. Not only will you avoid any financially difficult legal situation, you'll also avoid any website that promises free MP3 downloads but only delivers viruses and adware. 

 

3. Instead of looking for software cracks or serials online, look for coupons. The "cracks" scene is filled to the edge with malicious websites. You're not safe when you're visiting these "seedier" websites. 

4. Do not run in Administrator mode. You should only run in Administrator mode when you're installing hardware or software, but running in a lower security mode you'll avoid a lot of the more invasive attacks.

Now let’s see the steps one can take to avoid internet hacking issues and other cyber crimes. 

Six tips to help you stay safer online

Defend your computer

Keep all software (including your web browser) current with Microsoft Update. You can Install legitimate antivirus and antispyware software, such as Microsoft Security Essentials. (If you run Windows 8 or Windows RT, you don’t need Microsoft Security Essentials.)

Keep your firewall turned on.

Protect your wireless router with a password.

Don't put an unknown flash (or thumb) drive into your computer. If it has a virus, it could infect your computer. Before you open an attachment or click a link in an email message, an immediate message (IM), or on a social network, confirm with the sender that the message is genuine.

Don't click links or buttons in a pop-up window that seems suspicious.

Protect insightful personal information

Before you enter sensitive data in a web form or on a webpage, look for signs—like a web address with https and a closed padlock (combination lock) beside it—that it is secure.

Never give sensitive information (like an account number or password) in response to a request in an email message, IM, or on a social network.

Don't respond to pleas for money from "family members," deals that sound too good to be true, lotteries you didn't enter, or other scams. These fake messages of lotteries are common on mobile phones and email accounts, most of these are spam .So, take care that  do not affect your life and property in any way.

One should learn more about safe and sound websites, how to recognize phishing email messages, links, or phone calls, and how to protect your personal and financial information on the Internet.

Create strong passwords and keep them secret

Create passwords that are made up of long phrases or sentences that mix capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Always Use different passwords for different sites, especially those that keep financial information. There are many password checkers available on net; you can use a legit one.

Take charge of your online safety and reputation

Discover what is on the Internet about you and periodically evaluate what you find. Develop a positive reputation. It’s a good task to learn more about how to manage your online reputation.

Use social networks more safely

Look for Settings or Options in services like Face book and Twitter to manage who can see your profile or photos tagged with your name, control how people can search for you and make comments, and how to block people.

Do not post anything you wouldn't want to see on a public notice. It’s your responsibility to keep your personal matter up to you, and a stranger should see only that which you allow.

Be selective about the friends you accept. Periodically review of who has access to your pages, and review what they post about you. Sending, accepting friend requests to and from unknown people has many disadvantages.

Talk to your kids about staying safer online

To make online safety a family effort, use a mix of guidance and monitoring with your children. Discuss clear guidelines for web and online game use that fit your kids' maturity and your family's values. Pay attention to what your kids do and who they meet.What makes Windows 8.1 different from others?