Computer Angel | Safety Tips

🛡 Safety Options

Practical tools, habits, and strategies to protect yourself, your data, and your family online.

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Phishing is the #1 Threat

Fraudulent emails and text messages that trick you into revealing passwords or clicking malicious links account for the majority of online fraud. Always verify the sender before clicking any link.

⚠️
Weak Passwords Are a Major Risk

Using "123456" or your pet's name as a password is extremely dangerous. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Small Habits Make a Big Difference

You don't need to be a tech expert to stay safe online. A few consistent habits — like updating software and backing up files — dramatically reduce your risk.

Common Online Threats & How to Handle Them

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Phishing Attacks

Fake emails or messages disguised as your bank, government, or a trusted company asking you to click a link or provide personal information.

  • Check the sender's full email address — not just the name
  • Hover over links before clicking to see the real URL
  • When in doubt, go directly to the website rather than clicking
  • Never provide passwords, SINs, or banking details via email
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Ransomware

Malicious software that locks your files and demands payment to release them. It often arrives through email attachments or unsafe downloads.

  • Never open attachments from unknown senders
  • Keep regular offline backups so files can be restored
  • Keep your operating system and antivirus fully updated
  • Avoid downloading software from unofficial websites
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Identity Theft

Criminals use your personal details (name, SIN, banking info) to open credit accounts, make purchases, or commit fraud in your name.

  • Monitor your credit report regularly (free in Canada)
  • Shred physical documents containing personal information
  • Use unique passwords and 2-factor authentication on all accounts
  • Be cautious sharing personal info on social media
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Malware & Spyware

Software secretly installed on your device that can steal data, log keystrokes, show unwanted ads, or give criminals remote access to your computer.

  • Install a reputable antivirus program and keep it updated
  • Avoid clicking pop-up ads, especially ones claiming your PC is infected
  • Don't plug unknown USB drives into your computer
  • Run regular scans and review installed programs periodically

Recommended Safety Tools

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Bitwarden Free

Open-source password manager. Store all your passwords securely and generate strong unique ones for every site.

However, a Address Book is the best option!

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Windows Defender Free

Built into Windows 10/11. A solid, always-on antivirus that updates automatically with no subscription needed.

However, a Paid for full package is the best option! Contact me for some good options.

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Quality Browser Addons Free

Browser extension that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites. A must-have for safer, faster browsing.

Contact me for some good options.

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Exteral Hard Drive Free Tier

One click backup for your important files. If your computer fails, your data is safe and secure.

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VPN Services

Encrypts your internet connection on public Wi-Fi. Protects your data from snooping at coffee shops and hotels.

Contact me for some good options.

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Malwarebytes

Excellent for scanning and removing malware that standard antivirus might miss. Great for second-opinion scans.

🕒 Your Safety Level Guide

Strong ✅
Unique passwords, 2FA enabled, antivirus active, regular backups, software up to date.
Moderate ⚠️
Some passwords reused, 2FA on some accounts, antivirus installed but infrequent scans.
At Risk 🛑
Same passwords everywhere, no antivirus, no backups, outdated software, public Wi-Fi used unsafely.

💪 Top 5 Things to Do Right Now

  1. Enable 2-factor authentication on your email account
  2. Use an address book to manage and update your top 5 passwords
  3. Back up your most important files to an exteral hard drive today
  4. Install add blockers in your browser
  5. Check for and install all pending system updates

🔒 Get a Free Security Assessment

Not sure how safe your setup is? We'll walk through your devices, accounts, and habits and give you a clear, honest picture — with no obligation.

Book My Free 30 Minute Assessment