Living much of our lives on digital devices has
programmed us to be adept clickers of the mouse or tappers of the finger. Kids
especially do this at lightning speed!
But we have become so adept that we're clicking and tapping way too fast, too reflexively. It would behoove us to be more deliberate, especially when selecting weblinks.
Weblinks from Hell
Selecting weblinks without thinking can get us into big trouble, as one click or tap can cause a computer infection, or worse yet, a completely hijacked machine. (This is more common on Windows computers than on Macs or mobile devices – at least for now!)
So, best practice is to NOT open emails, links, or attachments from strangers, or even people you know if something seems suspicious about the email. When in doubt, delete. If the message is important enough, the person will call, or you can call them.
Careful on Facebook
This applies also on social media sites like Facebook, where clicking a link in a poisoned advertisement can lead to infection.
Don't get Phished!
Phishing is big business in the cybercrime world. Phishing (a twist on the word fishing) is all about trying to hook computer users by clicking/tapping links to infect a computer, scam with a product or service, or hack a computer in various other ways.
The US government created a campaign to promote more careful web use. It’s called Stop.Think.Connect. I recommend you check out their site. (Yes, this link is safe)
Training is key
If you’re an employer, you can print out material from the site or show a video clip to your staff. Education is key to reduce risk of getting hacked.
I give cybersecurity presentations to businesses and community groups. You can contact me to schedule on Hawaii Island.
Last, I’m recommending Malwarebytes Anti-malware 3.0, the paid version, to my clients these days. Training and knowledge is primary, second is good security software.
Here's the site: https://www.malwarebytes.com
After you buy and install it, close all programs on your computer and run a full scan, including your external drives.
Wishing you a safe day in cyberspace!
Thanks for reading.
Thanks for reading.
Sam
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