Internet Security Fundamentals - Online Edition
46 Checklist Of Things To Do
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1
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Use a modern operating system if possible (a £9.99 add-in called Start11 will make the Windows 10 or 11 start menu function more like Windows 7). It is important to stop using Windows 8, 7, XP or Vista as they are no longer supported by Microsoft, if you do, please consider replacing the PC. |
| 2 | Make sure that your operating system is set to regularly check and install updates. |
| 3 | Make sure that you are using legitimate up-to-date software and that it is regularly checked and updated. |
| 4 | Remove Oracle Java if you have no obvious need for it. |
| 5 | Remove Adobe Flash Player if installed. |
| 6 | Consider changing your DNS setting to OpenDNS or Quad9 (see Useful Resources chapter). |
| 7 | Use a modern web browser that is updated automatically like Chrome or Firefox. |
| 8 | Pay for antivirus software if you can, otherwise choose a free highly rated one from www.av-test.org |
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9
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Update and increase the strength of your online passwords to something that is not in a dictionary, together with special characters and choose different passwords for any services that involve money. |
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10
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Make sure all your files are backed up to another location, either in the cloud or to a USB hard drive or memory stick. |
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11
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Enable Two-Factor Authentication for all your personal online accounts, preferably linked to an Authenticator app on your mobile, rather than SMS based one-time passwords. |
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12
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Install the Avast Anti-Ransomware Protection & Removal Tool (avast.com/c-ransomware-protection-tool) if you are using the built-in Windows antivirus software. |
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13 |
Show all File Name Extensions so you can spot program files posing as documents like SOMETHING.DOC.EXE or SOMETHING.PDF.EXE as the last dot and 3-4 characters would normally be hidden on Microsoft Windows machines. |
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14 |
Disable Remote Desktop in Windows, if it is not something you ever use. |
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15 |
Re-read the updates of this eBook and re-read it in full every few months as any given advice can change. |
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