Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Technology - Staying Protected

Do you own a smartphone, tablet, phablet, e-reader, or other electronic device? How about a desktop computer or laptop? There are many choices available, and the list continues to grow. For those that may be new to these electronic devices or are unfamiliar with them, selecting the right one can seem almost overwhelming. Let's look at some of these devices and explore one thing they all have in common - keeping the device safe and secure.

Owning a computer or mobile device should be a fun and rewarding experience. There are certain things we can do to help keep it that way. One is to install security software (and, in some cases – security hardware). Almost all new computers, smartphones, tablets, and the like come preinstalled with security software. If you're unsure, refer to your device's documentation for specifics on what it has or has not preinstalled. You may discover that there isn't any antivirus, anti-malware, or security software. Not to worry - several choices are available in the Play Store (Android) and App Store (iPhone, iPad)!

When you purchase a new computer (Windows or Mac), there's a good chance it will come preinstalled with antivirus software. Most often, these are trial versions and will expire if not purchased. You can also delete them to install an antivirus solution of your choice. For more information, perform an internet search for antivirus software or check with your local computer store. Installing antivirus software on your computer is a must to help keep you and your files safe and secure.

The same applies to phones, tablets, and other devices. Typically, iPhones and iPads don't require antivirus software due to the features and protections built into the operating system. However, to be better protected, it's a good idea to look in your device's app store and select an antivirus solution that meets your needs.

With more and more of our daily lives, from banking to work to healthcare, taking place online, it's never been more essential to protect your electronic devices. Remember, keep your devices safe, and they'll keep you safe too.




Posted by Bryan Scheerer