It’s something that has certainly stepped into the mainstream media over recent times, with high-profile data breaches making the general population sit up and take note of the perils that cybersecurity problems can prompt.
Of course, while these big cases might be the ones that grab the headlines, the typical computer user is also at risk. In fact, some would suggest that the risks are even more prevalent, for the simple reason that most users just don’t protect themselves adequately.
To make matters even more concerning, there is a whole host of misinformation doing the rounds about tech security. Through the course of today’s post we will now mull over some of these fabrications and tell you what you should believe when it comes to the topic of tech security.
Myth #1 – You are completely protected with a Firewall and antivirus
There’s no doubt that internet security software is getting more powerful by the day, and most can stop any virus or malware firmly in its tracks.
However, to say that this is all you need to do is a gross understatement. Firstly, you need to make sure that such software is always kept up to date, with hackers constantly releasing new versions of this software which can bypass anything which is remotely old.
Then, there is your own internet usage. If you open yourself up to threats, such as not following basic phishing signs, there’s still a good chance that your security will be compromised. In short, don’t leave anything to chance.
Myth #2 – The Mac is completely secure
We’re not sure where this came from, but there is a big rumour doing the rounds which suggests that the Mac is completely secure, and immune from being affected from any sort of virus.
Well, let’s debunk this once and for all. Let’s not forget that the first ever computer virus was found on the Mac, all the way back in 1982. The misconception seems to have arisen due to the fact that it can be a more secure platform than Windows, but to suggest it cannot be infected is pure exaggeration.
Myth #3 – You are a small player, and won’t be attacked
Unfortunately, this is another myth that’s completely false. Hackers don’t target individuals, they usually attack computers on scale. This means that they will have picked up your details from somewhere, and initiated the attack from there. Just because you are a casual internet user, and not a large corporation, doesn’t mean to say that you won’t get attacked.
Myth #4 – Apps are a more secure way of using your phone
There’s no doubt that apps have become hugely popular over recent times, but there is no evidence to suggest they are more secure than a browser. On the contrary, you are still using the internet, and you actually might be even more at risk. This is because apps are more likely to be created by an unknown party, which obviously prompts its own concerns.