SECURITY BASICS
Combat malware and strengthen passwords.
Let’s start with the most fundamental aspect of security: installing anti-virus software. Skip ahead for a rundown of five of the best all-in-one solutions; you’ll also find plenty of free options available, starting with the free version of Avira Antivirus ( avira.com), which provides real-time protection against viruses.
Avira’s free offering does leave some gaps, so install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware ( malwarebytes.com), which can root out infections missed by other anti-virus tools. It’ll install as a fully functional 14-day trial with real-time protection before reverting to a free version that enables you to manually scan your system and remove any nasties you find. Be sure to set yourself a reminder to run a regular weekly scan.
Protect online accounts
Are you still using the same passwords to protect your online identity? Even a seemingly strong password may have been exposed in one of the many online hacks over the past decade.
Don’t believe us? Visit bit.ly/ mac364hibppw and enter each password you use before clicking “pwned?” The shorter the password, the more likely it’s been breached, and if it has, it will be on the hackers’ radar. Now click Home and enter your email address(es) to discover the shocking truth: it’s almost certain that at least one of your online accounts has been compromised.
The fix involves creating unique passwords for each online account you have, and that involves installing