If you are like other families, you will have multiple devices that you use in your home and while you are out. It isn’t just about cell phones, but tablets, laptops and many other devices that can connect to the internet. Although computers were previously the main target, there are now viruses and other threats that can attack all other types of device. To protect your data and make sure you don’t fall victim to a cyber-attack, here are things you can do.

Your Laptops and PC’s

Most people have a laptop or a PC in their home; they can be handy if you need to work or if you must send emails as it is easier to use a keyboard. Protecting them from an attack is straightforward if you are using the right tools. The first thing they need is a good and reliable anti-virus software, as it will scan your laptop or PC and check for any threats against its database. Anti-virus software, including the free versions, are designed to detect viruses and delete or quarantine them. They can also be used to scan emails and websites in real-time as you use them, which will prevent any threats getting into your computer.

If you are using your laptop outside of your home, you should also use a password to protect it in case is it accessed without your permission or stolen. If you do have a breach of security such as a virus infecting and damaging your computer, then you can try to retrieve the information by taking it to a company to recover the data. For example, there are Secure Data Recovery locations all over the US that can take your computer and try to recover your lost data.

Cell Phones and Tablets

There has been a steady rise in the number of viruses that are now cropping up on cell phones and tablets. It has led to some anti-virus companies creating mobile versions of their software that you can get from the app stores. As with the computer versions, they scan your device and prevent attacks from emails. There are other ways that your information can be obtained that is unique to mobile devices. For example, there have been people who have attempted to obtain data via a phone’s Bluetooth if it is active.

Changes in the Bluetooth protocols have lessened these threats, but it is still advisable to monitor your Bluetooth use. Because these types of device are also small enough to easily lose or to be stolen, you should also make sure that they have adequate password or pin protection. Some manufacturers also now offer a way for you to wipe your phone remotely if you lose it. That means no personal data can be obtained and it also renders the phone unusable.

Stay Protected

If you have these devices, it is important that you protect your data and personal information. With people doing more on their devices such as banking, shopping and working, there has never been a more important time to keep your devices safe.