How to safeguard our personal and financial data?

Nowadays, internet is more and more important in human life. We rely on internet to save our personal data and using online financial services to do financial transactions such as online banking in order to save time. Therefore, safeguard for us to protect our personal and financial data is very importtant. The following tips will help us become aware of how to protect data both at work and at home.

1. Password protect
Use a strong password or pass-phrase to protect the access data.

2. Safeguard your Social Security number
Never carry your card with you, or any other card that may have your number, like a health insurance card. And don’t put your number on your checks. It's the primary target for identity thieves because it gives them access to your credit report and bank accounts.

3. Secure Your Network
If you have a wireless network at home or work, make sure that you secure it. Hacker can gain access to anything you do over an unsecured network in a matter of seconds. If you look at the documentation for your wireless router, you'll be able to find out how to lock your router and encrypt your information. It won't affect the way you use your wireless network, but it will keep intruders from getting a hold of your info. Using the antivirus software may help you to prevent from hacker.

4. Install and update antispyware and antivirus programs
Install an antivirus program such as Symantec and Norton antivirus, AVG antivirus or other more in order to protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer . In order for the well protection, you must must sure to keep your virus definitions up to date.

5. Install a firewall
A firewall is a software program designed to allow good people in and keep bad people out. Most new computers come with firewalls integrated into their operating systems. If you have an older computer or using dial-up, you may need to buy a firewall separately and install it yourself.

6. Avoid accessing financial information in public
Prevent form logging on to check your bank balance when working from a coffee shop that offers wireless access. Although the systems are convenient but we do not know how powerful their firewalls are.

7. Review your payment statements carefully
Make sure you recognize the website and check the purchases listed before paying the bill. If you don't need or use department-store or bank-issued credit cards, consider closing the accounts. Always check the statement carefully before you leave the website.