Is your computer safe from a cyberattack? Could your computer and its data be held for ransom? Is your identity at risk of being stolen? Are your passwords available on the DarkWeb? So many things to think about! Will antivirus software help? We have put together a list of 5 reasons to use antivirus software.
No matter how robust your antivirus program is, common sense still rules the day. Don’t click links in emails. Don’t forward messages. Don’t open attachments. If your bank sends you an email with a message to “click here to verify account information.” Your bank won’t do that and if it suspects a breach it will advise you to go to the website, not click a link.
5 Reasons To Use Antivirus Software
Antivirus software may help protect your data BUT keep in mind antivirus software is reactive. It doesn’t know what new threats are brewing; once it does, it will update its service but if a threat gets onto your computer and you click or follow a link, your software may ask, “are you sure you want to go here?” but it may not protect your computer, your data or your identity.
Here are reasons to consider an antivirus program.
- It’s a line of defense against scams and phishing emails. “Send money now or your nephew/grandson won’t be released from jail!” “You’ve won $10,000 you just need to click here and fill out this form.” Chances are you have seen emails like this or similar ones. These are phishing emails and are designed to frighten you or convince you you’ve won some amazing prize (you didn’t!). Once you click, you open your computer and all its data (your passwords, bank accounts, photos, your email contacts, etc.). Viola your computer is now vulnerable to spyware, malware, viruses and more.
- Your computer performance may benefit. If your computer is slow, it could be a number of reasons, but if you don’t have an antivirus software, it could be because your computer has malware. Keep your computer software updated, check your storage capacity and run a virus software.
- An antivirus software can block dangerous websites from your children. Let’s face it, kids get into trouble without even knowing it or asking for it and that could be anything from going to a website that isn’t secure to seeking out and installing a video game or software that has malware embedded. You can choose websites to exclude from your family to protect them and your data.
- Protect. Your. Data. Antivirus software can safeguard your personal and professional data. A virus or malware can destroy all your data, crash your device or even lock up your data. Additionally, scammers who get into your device will have access to everyone in your email account and can send emails “from you” to them and infect their computers. It’s a vicious cycle and your computer will have been ground zero.
- Protect your bank accounts and credit cards. When you shop online – and who doesn’t! – your credit card and bank account information is available for the stealing. An antivirus software will enhance your own ability to shop at sites that are secure.
No matter what type device or operating system you are running, select an antivirus software solution from a reputable and well-known company. This software shouldn’t be relied upon to provide all the protection you need but it can work hand-in-hand to protect you and your data.
Clients who are on our 360 Protect Data Now Managed Service plan DO have protections in place to greatly reduce the chances of these things happening, and the severity and impact if they get compromised. You should also know there is absolutely no way we, or anyone else, can 100% guarantee you won’t get compromised – you can only put smart protections in place to greatly reduce the chances of this happening, to protect data so it IS recoverable and to demonstrate to your employees, clients and the lawyers that you WERE responsible and not careless.
DM us or schedule an appointment to talk with our President Seth Melendez. Protect your company’s most valuable asset – its data.
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