When you are surfing the wild waves of the internet, you will inevitably run into some sharks. Fishy websites that want to drag you underwater are everywhere. In the best case scenario, you’ll get away with malicious websites – but if you’re unlucky, some cybercriminals may even take over your phone or computer.
In case of emergency, you don’t want to run around looking for last-minute solutions. That’s why you should take security measures, such as downloading antivirus software. It’s best to find good security downloads ahead of time, so you’re prepared for anything cybercriminals can come your way.
Sadly, these precautions are necessary on today’s internet. Phishing attacks won’t go down any time soon, and bad faith actors are floating all around us. Here are three essential cybersecurity tools to help you keep your head above water.
1. Download Anti-Malware Software to Protect Your Computer
The worst thing about harmful files is that you may not even know they are there. Clever cybercriminals can hide them in code, which means you need high-quality security programs that scan your system and clean up dangerous files.
Fortunately, you don’t have to open your wallet for security. When it comes to free options, Windows Defender and Malwarebytes have got you covered.
Microsoft designed Windows Defender for Windows 10 computers. It works behind the scenes and is built into your PC.
Just make sure you’re using the latest version so that you can get the latest protection as possible. Click here to update Windows Defender.
If you use Apple products, your macOS doesn’t come with built-in antivirus programs like Windows Defender. Fortunately, you can download Malwarebytes for Mac, a free program designed to be as fast as possible. In fact, it can scan your entire computer in as little as 30 seconds.
Once that quick scan is complete, Malwarebytes identifies and removes any malicious files. You don’t have to do any extra work as it does the heavy lifting for you.
2. Quad9. Optimize your network security with
Fake websites are everywhere. They may have domain names that appear to be legitimate, which can trick unsuspecting people.
So a reliable DNS – the domain name system – can make a world of difference. It acts like a phone book for the web, translating IP addresses into easy to read domain names. For example, a DNS might translate Google.com to the IP address 74.125.239.2.
Here’s the problem: Hackers can slip between the cracks. They will hijack your DNS settings, redirecting you to malicious websites. Then, your whole computer is toast.
That’s why we recommend you use the Quad9 Domain Name System, a solution from cybersecurity advocates from IBM as well as the Global Cyber Alliance. Whenever you click on a web link, Quad9 checks the website against IBM X-Force’s vast threat intelligence database. Basically, Quad9 does unauthorized DNS redirects right off the bat – hijackers can’t mess up your connection.
Plus, you don’t need to download any additional programs. If you want to use Quad9, simply edit the address in your DNS settings. Tap or click here for step-by-step instructions on how to download Quad9 for your Windows PC or Mac.
3. Is someone spying on your typing? This Keylogger Check Could Keep You Safe
Ever heard of a keylogger? These are invasive programs that can monitor what you type in real time. If that weren’t bad enough, a keylogger can send your keystrokes to hackers.
Cybercriminals use this technology to steal passwords, email addresses and other personal data in the blink of an eye. To protect your PC from this threat, look for anti-keylogging software. A great free alternative is Ghostpress.
This lightweight program runs in the background while you type. If someone tries to record your keystrokes, it blocks them. Ghostpress also prevents hackers from taking screenshots of your personal information.
If you’re browsing on a Mac, we have some additional solutions. Tap or click here for more ways to stop keyloggers from snatching your passwords.
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