HK Computer Technology

Introduction

In today’s digital world, cyber security is no longer optional—it is essential. Every computer user, whether a student, office employee, business owner, or home user, is exposed to online threats daily. Hackers, malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and data theft are increasing every year.

Many people believe cyber attacks only happen to large companies, but the truth is individual users are the primary targets. A weak password, unsafe download, or careless click is enough to compromise an entire system.

This guide explains essential cyber security tips that every computer user must follow, using real-life scenarios and practical steps that anyone can understand and apply.

1. Use Strong and Unique Passwords Everywhere

Real Scenario:

A user uses the same password for email, Facebook, and banking. When one website is hacked, attackers gain access to all accounts.

Best Practices:

• Use different passwords for each account
• Minimum 12 characters
• Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols

Example of a strong password:

combine random words with numbers/symbols
(e.g I<3MyDog_S5! )

Avoid:

• Your name
• Birthdate
• Mobile number
• “123456” or “password”

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Real Scenario:

Even if hackers steal your password, 2FA stops them because they cannot access your phone or email.

Where to enable 2FA:

• Email accounts
• Social media
• Cloud storage
• Banking and payment apps

Types of 2FA:

• OTP via SMS
• Authenticator apps
• Email verification

This single step blocks 90% of account hacking attempts.

3. Keep Windows and Software Updated

Real Scenario:

Many cyber attacks exploit old system vulnerabilities that already have security patches.

What to update:

• Windows OS
• Browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
• Office software
• Drivers

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Windows Update
2. Enable automatic updates
3. Restart regularly

Delayed updates = security risk.

4. Avoid Clicking Unknown Links and Attachments

Real Scenario:

A fake email claims “Your account will be blocked today.” The attached file contains malware.

Red flags:

• Urgent threats
• Unknown sender
• Spelling mistakes
• Suspicious links

Safety Rule:

• Never click links from unknown emails
• Hover over links before clicking
• Verify sender address carefully

5. Use Built-In Antivirus (Windows Security)

You don’t need expensive antivirus software. Windows already includes Microsoft Defender, which is powerful and free.

Steps to check protection:

1. Open Windows Security
2. Ensure:
   • Virus & threat protection: ON
   • Real-time protection: ON
   • Firewall: ON

Real Scenario:

A user downloads a cracked software file. Defender blocks it instantly before damage.

6. Download Software Only from Trusted Sources

Real Scenario:

Free software websites often bundle malware with installers.

Safe sources:

• Official websites
• Microsoft Store
• Well-known developers

Avoid:

• Cracked software
• Torrent downloads
• Unknown “free tools”

Using pirated software is illegal AND dangerous.

7. Secure Your Internet Browser

Your browser is the most targeted application.

Browser security tips:

• Keep browser updated
• Install only necessary extensions
• Remove unused add-ons

Real Scenario:

A malicious browser extension tracks keystrokes and steals passwords.

Recommended:

• Review extensions monthly
• Remove suspicious permissions

8. Be Careful on Public Wi-Fi

Real Scenario:

Public Wi-Fi at cafes or airports allows attackers to intercept data.

Do NOT do on public Wi-Fi:

• Online banking
• Password changes
• Business logins

Safe practice:

• Use mobile hotspot when possible
• Log out after usage
• Avoid sensitive activities

9. Lock Your Computer When Away

Real Scenario:

An unlocked PC in office allows someone to copy files or install malware.

Steps:

• Press Windows + L when leaving desk
• Set auto-lock after 5–10 minutes

This prevents unauthorized access instantly.

10. Backup Your Data Regularly

Real Scenario:

Ransomware encrypts files and demands money.

Best backup strategy:

• External hard drive
• Cloud backup
• Weekly or monthly schedule

Backup rule:

If data is not backed up, it is already lost.

11. Protect Yourself from Phishing Websites

Real Scenario:

A fake website looks exactly like a bank login page.

How to identify phishing:

• Check URL spelling
• Look for HTTPS
• Avoid links from emails

Never enter sensitive information unless you typed the website address yourself.

12. Use Standard User Account (Not Admin)

Real Scenario:

Malware running under admin account can modify system files.

Best practice:

• Use standard account for daily use
• Use admin account only when required

This limits malware damage.

13. Disable Auto-Run for USB Devices

Real Scenario:

Infected USB drives automatically run malware.

Steps:

1. Open Settings
2. Disable auto-play
3. Scan USB before opening

Never plug unknown USB drives into your PC.

14. Monitor Account Activity Regularly

Real Scenario:

User ignores security alerts; attacker stays unnoticed for months.

What to monitor:

Login alerts
Password change emails
Unusual activity warnings

Respond immediately to security notifications.

15. Learn Basic Cyber Awareness (Most Important)

Technology alone cannot stop cyber attacks. Awareness is your strongest defense.

Key habits:

Think before clicking
Question urgent messages
Verify before trusting
Never share OTPs

Most cyber attacks succeed due to human mistakes, not system failure.