Tips ⯈ Cybersecurity
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By Kim Komando
We rounded up some of the best ways to protect your computer against viruses, cyberattacks and other threats. We’ve got you covered if you aren’t familiar with how cybersecurity threats work. Tap or click for a quick breakdown of the five most common digital threats you’ll encounter.
There are plenty of ways to protect your devices from harm. You can take preemptive measures like security software or scan your system for malware. Keep reading for the best ways to keep your devices safe — without spending a dime.
1. Spot unwanted devices on your network with Angry IP Scanner
What it is: Angry IP scanner keeps track of everything connected to your network. It scans your network for IP addresses and other information about the devices connected to your network.
Why you want it: It’s helpful in troubleshooting tech issues and catching hackers since it pinpoints unknown or suspicious devices on your network. Have trouble connecting a device to your network? Angry IP Scanner can show the exact IP address of specific devices, which will help you fix the issue.
What you need to know: For Angry IP Scanner to run, you must have Java installed.
2. GlassWire checks your network
What it is: Free firewall software that detects malware from people trying to access your computer from afar.
Why you want it: You can use GlassWire to disable malware-ridden apps. Even better, it can stop you from downloading a virus in the first place. These free firewalls make your computer safer, especially when using the internet.
Do you have a Mac instead? This is one of the best free security downloads for you
Just check outNetdata, which you can use on macOS and Linux.
It’s our favorite Glassware alternative for Apple users. Use it to quickly monitor your network’s infrastructure. Overall, it’s a great troubleshooting solution that provides thousands of real-time metrics. Put simply, it empowers you to monitor your network and see how healthy your system is.
There’s just one caveat: You must create an account and sign in before you can download NetData.
3. Use TeamViewer for remote IT help
What it is: This remote access software lets you connect to any PC or server. You can control computers from afar — or, on the other hand, someone can control your computer from afar. This is incredibly helpful for IT and troubleshooting solutions.
Why you want it: Maybe you’re not tech-savvy, but a friend is. You can ask them to control your computer and fix tech problems through Team Viewer. Or maybe you’re tech-savvy but struggling to talk your friend through their tech problems. Both of you should download this program so you can control your computers remotely and fix the issue.
What you need to know: Only use this with someone you know and trust. Cybercriminals can use tools like this. Scammers often bait you into downloading programs like this so they can take over your computer. Use this tool wisely — if you let a stranger use it, they could infect your device with malware.
Don’t miss out on more of the best free security downloads
You can also use Chrome Remote Desktop and Microsoft Remote Desktop to remotely control your computer. They aren’t for troubleshooting tech issues, but they’re still helpful. Tap or click here to safely access and control your computer via your phone.
4. Need to send personal documents over email? Use 7Zip to stay safe
What it is: This file compression software lets you package large files before you send them.
Why you want it: Sometimes, you need to share highly sensitive documents over email. Use 7Zip to compress your important files into an encrypted folder you can protect with a password. This way, hackers who get into your email can’t open the folders and steal important documents.
What you need to know: Only download it from its official website. You might get a mimicry embedded with malware if you download it from an unauthorized source. Click the yellow button below to download it safely.
5. Stop creeps from tracking what you type with GhostPress
What it is: Ghostpress is anti-keylogging software that stops malicious software from capturing your keyboard presses. It also prevents hackers from taking screenshots of your computer.
Why you want it: Ghostpress will stop invasive keylogging programs from monitoring what you’re typing in real-time. It also prevents keyloggers from sending your keystrokes to hackers, which is how cybercriminals steal passwords.
What you need to know: This program is pretty lightweight. It runs in the background while you type and blocks anyone who tries to record your keystrokes.
Liked this guide to the best free security downloads? Check out these free tools
If you’re craving more freebies, we don’t blame you. Here are a few valuable resources worth checking out.
Sure, they aren’t securitydownloads. But it can be dangerous to go looking for things withoutknowingwhat is safe to use. Scammers often buy top spots in Google Search to trick you into downloading malware.
Here are some excellent tools to check out. Best of all, they’re as free as sunshine.
- Audacity: This free audio editing program helps you create podcasts, songs and more. It’s not as robust as Adobe Audition, but it gets the job done.
- Thunderbird: Use this to get a free email client.
- Libre Office: We love this free Microsoft Office alternative. It meets all of your productivity needs. Here’s how it can revolutionize your work life.
- Blender: Want to flex your artistic skills? Use Blender for free 3D modeling. This is great for animators, designers and scientists.
- Calibre: This e-book manager is a lifesaver for those with too many files on their hands. It converts different files, which helps when you have files that won’t work on your Kindle or other tools.
Here at Komando HQ, the only thing we love more than sharing tech tips is sharing freebies. Sadly, there can be time limits on the best freebies. Don’t waste any time: Grab these 10 tech freebies while you still can.
Tags: audacity, cybersecurity, cybersecurity threats, digital threats, Firewall, freebies, Mac, malware, protection, remote access, security, security software, software, TeamViewer, tech tips, thunderbird, tools, viruses, Windows
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