Considering the fact a cyberattack has been estimated to occur roughly every 39 seconds, cybersecurity should be at the forefront of every computer user’s mind. Ensuring that your computer privacy settings are properly configured is a key, but frequently overlooked line in your defense against cybercriminals. Because of the many ways in which hackers can take advantage of poor configurations, it’s essential that you keep your settings up-to-date to maintain robust security. Here’s how.
What Are Computer Privacy Settings and Why Do They Matter?
Computer privacy settings are the controls and configurations that manage how your data is shared and accessed by applications, websites and other services. These settings can dictate everything from app permissions and data-sharing policies to how your computer interacts with networks and any connected devices you use.
These settings are vital for keeping your personal data safe and reducing the risk of any would-be cybercriminals gaining unauthorized access. With strong privacy settings, you limit who and what can access your data, reducing your vulnerability to identity theft, phishing attacks, and other forms of cybercrime.
How Cybercriminals Exploit Poor Privacy Settings
Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for weaknesses in privacy settings and easy ways to infiltrate devices. Here’s how this can be done:
- Malware – If your privacy settings allow unauthorized apps to run or install themselves, malicious software can easily install itself onto your device.
- Data harvesting – When you permit apps and websites broad access to your data, attackers can then collect this information for identity theft or to sell on to third parties.
- Phishing – Weak email and network privacy settings can make you more likely to be struck by phishing scams, designed to trick you into revealing passwords, financial details, and other sensitive information.
Even something as innocuous as sharing your device’s location can be leveraged by attackers to compromise your security, so it’s important to understand your privacy settings inside out. We would also recommend installing software such as our System Shield to help any viruses from infecting your device.
Windows 10 privacy settings that can protect you
There are four main areas within Windows 10, under Settings and Privacy, where customization can bolster your security.
- App permissions – here you can control what information apps are allowed to access, such as your location, camera, microphone and more. Limit permissions to only the apps that genuinely need them.
- Diagnostic data – by opting for the ‘basic’ setting instead of ‘full’ you can limit the data being shared.
- Advertising ID – turning this off prevents you from being bombarded with personalized ads based on your activity.
- Activity history – uncheck any options that allow Windows to collect and sync your activity across different devices.
How to Keep Your Privacy Settings Updated for Maximum Security
Privacy settings need regular reviews and updates to stay effective, as software updates and new features can change default configurations and sometimes reset your settings. In order to avoid being caught out by this, you should always review your settings after any system updates, to make sure everything is still the way you like it.
Despite the way they can sometimes modify your existing settings, it’s important to stay on top of the updates for your operating system and any software you use. Updates often patch vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit if left unchecked.
Additions tools for enhanced protection
If you’re looking for some additional security measures to boost your defenses and ensure a secure online experience, there are tools you can use.
- VPNs – Using a virtual private network (VPN) such as ours encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept your data.
- Secure browsers and extensions – Consider using a browser that prioritizes security. You can also download browser extensions designed to block pop-up ads and limit tracking.
- Antivirus software – Install reputable antivirus software to keep your computer safe. There are various products available, designed to target different things, such as ridding your device of existing malware, or protecting your browser from online tracking, profiling and data mining.
Set yourself up for optimal security
Your computer’s privacy settings are the ready-made barriers between your device and cyberattacks. Staying on top of these settings by understanding and actively configuring them can make the difference between being a secure user, or an easy target. By staying vigilant and making use of the tools at your disposal, you can better protect your personal data and enjoy a safer online experience. Look to the experts at iolo for more privacy advice.
