Archives - Laptop Security


Update your BIOS when necessary — but not when it isn’t

Your motherboard’s functions are determined by its Basic Input Output System, or BIOS. It’s common for BIOS firmware to receive updates via the motherboard manufacturer’s website to enable support for new components, especially CPUs. Before you install any component into your motherboard, ensure that the two pieces of hardware are compatible. If not, you may […]

Keep all your important drivers updated

Most people know the importance of keeping their OS updated, but drivers are seldom automatically updated. Some examples of drivers you should keep updated are motherboard chipsets, video cards, sound cards, and networking equipment such as Wi-Fi connectors. You can do this manually by searching out new drivers online or investing in software that searches […]

Be sure to safely discard old devices and drives!

They say that deleting something from a computer or hard drive doesn’t really get rid of it, and unfortunately, it’s true. If you get rid of a hard drive or give away an old PC, you should be careful – people could recover your past activities and files. Using a deep deletion utility first, or […]

Get a new phone, laptop or tablet if it’s no longer receiving security updates

Devices such as these only receive security updates for a certain period of time, generally three to five years. Take note of whether your device is still receiving security updates (it may automatically inform you when time expires), and don’t use it beyond its intended lifespan.

Turn off your webcam and microphone when not in use

Cybercriminals can potentially access the feeds from your webcam and microphone without your permission. Turn both of these off when you’re not using them, or even better, disconnect them entirely. Also, if you work from home and need to join conference video calls for work, think about keeping your private home protected by using background […]

Use a PIN to protect your Windows account

While you can opt for the convenience of having no security checks before logging into Windows, this leaves you vulnerable to anyone else walking up to the machine and looking at your data. This can be especially problematic if you live with other people who don’t need to see what’s on your computer. Adding a […]