Worried about ransomware?

Most people will have seen the news over the last few days about the high profile attack on computers around the world that as had a huge impact on bug organisations such as the UK's NHS.  A lot of people are worried about things like this; we hear about hacking, viruses and ransomware more and more, but don't always know what we can do about them.

At Horizon, we have a number of important steps we recommend everyone follows:

• Make sure the 'Windows updates' or 'Mac updates' are installed on your computer regularly.  This is important and you should check for updates at least once a month, and any time you hear about a major exploit or virus.
   
• Make sure you have good Antivirus software installed.  There are even free Antivirus tools available if you don't want to pay!  Anyone who connects to the Internet need anti-virus software.
   
• Make sure your data is backed up.  No matter how many patches and antivirus tools you have, there is always a chance that you get hit by an exploit that has no fix published for it yet.  If the worst happens, you need to know that you data is safe.  Backup is vital.  There are low cost online tools to automate backups for you, or you can schedule copies to memory sticks and external hard drives to allow you to keep a copy of your data safe away from your computer.
   
• Stay educated about the latest risks on the Internet.  Lots of exploits and hacks require you as the user to trigger them.  If you know not to open that strange e-mail attachment, or not click that link from the e-mail, then you will be far better protected than if you happily click anything you see.  If you are unsure, seek out help, advice and training from a professional.

If you have any concerns about your IT security, or would like to have come help checking your systems, contact Horizon for help and advice.  Horizon have a skilled team, experienced in IT security and ready to help protect you.