How can you tell if your computer is safe?
There are several ways to tell if a computer is safe. Some giveaways that a computer has been compromised is an extremely sluggish performance, pop-ups, unknown programs being installed, and/or inability to access files. All of these signs can signal an infection and can be indicative of virus.
If a computer doesn’t immediately display signs of infection, there are steps one can take to test the integrity of the computer. Running a virus scan through reliable antivirus software will help detect any viruses or malware on the computer. Ensuring your antivirus is up to date, verifying your VPN, and keeping an eye out for unusual processes in the task manager will also help indicate if a computer has been compromised, or if it’s safe to use.
Describe three ways that computers have made the world safer and less safe.
Less Safe
- Increased privacy risks associated with data storage. Security is a fundamental goal of most cyber domains, however guaranteeing that security is never full proof, there is always a risk of a data breach or information leak
- Cyberbullying – Due to the ability to remain anonymous, the cyber domain computers offer provides an environment that facilitates harassment and bullying, seemingly without repercussions.
- Scams conducted through computers, such as phishing, make the world a much more dangerous place. This is especially true concerning those who may not be as proficient in technology as others, such as the elderly. Phishing attempts and other methods of scamming make computers inherently more risky to navigate if someone is unable to identify and avoid them.
More Safe
- Computers are now able to perform jobs that are hazardous to people, such as SCADA. This helps make the world safer by preventing workplace accidents fro occurring due to unsafe work environments.
- Computers help facilitate the prosecution of criminals by providing data that may aid in investigations and convictions, such as digital footprints or stored data.
- Computers provide innovative security system technology that help businesses and individuals to stay protected from deviant entities.