Covid-19 is Not the Only Virus to be Concerned About

While more people remain working from home during Covid-19, our browsers have been opened up to a sea of hackers. As most of us work from home, we are all exposed to many viruses and other online dangers that may not make us physically sick, but could put our business at a higher risk of these nasty computer viruses. I know what you’re thinking, “How is this going to affect me?” According to tech coach, Burton Kelso, there has been a spike of internet scams that are so realistic that most fall into the trap. He explains that while we are at home, we are vulnerable to these scams. Based on the technology behind it, these scams could be a simple change to the URL or to make a duplicate website encrypted with a terrifying virus waiting to get a hold of your personal information. Now that you know about these possibilities, how can you keep yourself safe from these hackers? 

Ensure Strong Internet Connections

You can always check your internet speed with an outside source. For example, we have used speedtest.net. If you come to find that your speed is less than 30 mbps, you may have a one-way ticket on the scam bus heading to virus city! If you are using your home-wifi, the best tool to use to gain a faster Wi-Fi speed is Google’s Wi-Fi ‘mesh’ router system. This tool can blanket an area with a stronger signal! If you are in public space, make sure to use a personal hotspot. If you are using an insecure network, you are opening yourself up to possible virus attacks. One lesson here is to never use Mcdonald’s public Wi-Fi! If you have no other option, make sure to enable a VPN service to keep your data more secure. 

Be on the Lookout for Phishing Scams

 The majority of cyber attacks require your interaction. This basically means that hackers are trying to wheel you in using a type of click-bait. As these usually seem normal to the naked eye, try not to fall victim to these scams. Fraudulent links are the #1 cause for the spread of a virus. While possibly finding information for a work-based study, blogs, etc.. you may come across Phishing scams. To protect yourself, be sure to measure your defense protocols. The best recommended tool for this is opendns.com/phishingquiz! Make sure you don’t take the bait in any phishing scam that may come your way. 

Strong Passwords

By using strong passwords, you can put up your own defense against these hackers. Consider using a paraphrase for your passwords as these would be harder for a scammer to guess. Make sure to add numbers, special characters, and avoid using weak passwords tied to your personal life! Some good advice would be to never reuse passwords! Just imagine, if someone gets ahold of your one and only password, that could mean that they have access to all of your accounts and information. 

By following these tips, you can keep yourself and business safe from scams!