Cybercrime is on the rise and one of the main reasons for this is that users are not thinking about security enough. Usernames are fairly easy to discover, with most being related to names/email addresses which can be found with just a simple Google search. So, when combined with a commonly used password, hackers will gain access to private, ‘secure’, files easily. In 2019, the most commonly used password was 123456. This was used by 23.2 million people who had their accounts hacked. The next most popular password was 123456789, which was used by more than 7.7 million hacked...

The exact definition of the Internet of Things has consistently been evolving and up for debate. However, broadly speaking, it refers to the way a number of normal everyday devices are able to connect to one another as a part of a network and transmit data via the internet. What are the pros and cons of this increased level of connectivity? Pros First, let's discuss some of the most common benefits of the Internet of Things. Convenience - The Internet of things has made the transmission of data instantaneous and efficient, across domestic and commercial applications. This applies to...

It might sound self-explanatory, but many people often forget that wifi is wireless. This means the signal from your router isn’t necessarily confined to the four walls of your house, apartment or business premises. You might never have given it a second thought, but it’s actually quite easy for neighbours to share a wifi connection – particularly if there is no password in place. This in itself isn’t just a bad thing on paper: if you get on with a neighbour, it might even seem beneficial to share a connection to save money – but what are the drawbacks?...

Online storage today is cheaper and easier than ever before – but temporary file sharing remains something of a technological headache. Many of the services we use and take for granted include a certain amount of free storage, and some will even include a sharing option. However, it’s very common to feel a pang of unease about how long this link will last for, whether the link will be shared beyond the intended recipient, or how secure the content is. Furthermore, even offline file sharing – passing a USB to a colleague for example - is not without its...

There are many factors that can affect the speed, efficiency and security of a PC. Computer owners should complete regular maintenance checklists so that any potential issues are stopped in their tracks. Ideally, this should be done on a weekly basis. Update your anti-virus software Viruses can cause extensive damage to a computer. Often, this will be irreversible. The latest malicious software finds flaws in outdated security systems. This is why it is essential that you are running the latest version of your chosen antivirus software. Run anti-spyware/anti-malware programmes It is also important to do a scan of...

We all own precious family photographs, health and legal documents that are private to us. Once upon a time you could simply lock your home or build a wall of physical security around your business in order to keep your personal information safe. Over the last 20 years, our lives have increasingly moved online. A bolt on the door doesn’t protect our online data. That is why encryption matters. Online digital security matters to us all When it comes to the internet and networking, it’s not just our own personal computer or business ethernet which needs guarding. The very...

The hard drive or solid state drive of your computer holds a lot of sensitive information. This includes your account passwords, personal details, financial records and personal files and photos that no one but you should see. When you want to sell or dispose of your old computer, you need to wipe out all the sensitive data. This will protect you from identity theft. Simply deleting files and folders and emptying your recycle bin or formatting your computer does not wipe out all the data, however. You may no longer be able to access the deleted data, but...

When your data becomes inaccessible or lost for any reason, you better have a backup - an effective way of preventing data loss. Unfortunately, even backups can suffer from malfunctions at times, especially when you rely on SD card or memory stick. When such a thing happens, you’ll need the services of a data recovery specialist to salvage all of your important information. So, how do you choose a good firm? Here are some tips to help you land the best data recovery company: Consider reputation Problems with portable memory cards or hard drives need expert assistance....

Protect yourself from attack, and make sure your anti-virus software protects you from these dangers. While giving us the option to connect to the entire world, and learn anything at the drop of a hat, the internet can also be a place that leaves you vulnerable to malware, identity-stealing scams and more. How can you protect yourself from these dangers? Anti-virus protection is a real way to protect yourself from the dangers of surfing online. Here we’ve collated some of the most important benefits of installing good anti-virus software. Protection from Viruses The clue is in the...

Key benefits of anonymous email services An anonymous email service does what it says on the tin; it allows the user to share a message with one or multiple recipients without also sharing their contact information. There are many benefits to using an anonymous email service, with good intentions, and in many ways it's more beneficial for everyone involved. Here are 3 key ways anonymous email services can benefit you. Freedom of expression The sad reality of things is that people often don't really want to be told the truth. They may say they do, but the minute...