Cyber security while downloading files

The internet is full of information and everything under the sun. So people tend to download a material or two from it. However, in the age where cyber security is given prominence, it is extremely important that you pay close attention to what you are browsing on the internet. You need to practice good habits to keep your personal information safe. You are always going to have new software or app downloaded directly from websites hosting those files. But, you are prone to getting hacked if you don’t pay close attention to the places from where you are downloading the files. Even a trusted platform can get hacked, so you never know what could happen. 

Often times, files over the internet are tampered with to include malware and other back-doors for the hackers.     

For those, who have no idea about how things work and just browse the internet for fun, downloading songs, games, and other related activities, here is your opportunity to learn about the digital dilemmas, ways to avoid them, and how to determine what is real and what’s fishy, so that you can enjoy secure downloading.

Let’s jump right into it before checking out courses in Cyber Security.

#1 Check the website address

Whenever you are internet browsing, you must have prior knowledge to tell the difference between an unsecured and secured website. So, when you are downloading a file or software from a website, determine the website address. Look for a lock symbol at the beginning of the address or alternatively, look for an HTTPS at the start of the web address. Websites with a lock symbol or an HTTPS – often both – are secured through SSL/TSL encryption. This means that the website owner has purchased the certificate to validate this fact. SSL encryption means the site is far more difficult to hack. That ultimately means anything you download from an SSL encrypted site is safe to use. 

However, there are instances when you click on a link, and it redirects you to a new web page. In most cases, these sites don’t have the lock symbol or HTTPS. So, immediately close the tab and refrain from clicking that link again. 

#2 Install proper tools 

Whether you are using a PC or a mobile device, you need to ensure that your device is safe from external internet activities. If you are using your smartphone, always use Google Protect when downloading apps from the Play Store. Most importantly, use a quality web browser on your phone, as well. Never save the passwords or IDs when you are browsing the internet through your mobile device, and refrain from using public WiFi networks. 

On the contrary, if you are using desktop, ensure that you have installed all the important tools like antivirus and malware scanners into the system. If you frequently use a desktop for most of your internet browsing times, you are advised to invest in a quality antivirus. Ads are other aspects that pose a threat to your system. Use a quality adware removal as well. Quality tools are never free, especially when they are designed to protect your system. So, you are recommended to buy a subscription for these safety tools for your system. 

#3 Find the right source for downloading 

Pirating copyrighted content is something that not every internet user can do. It requires some reverse-engineering tricks and exclusive access to pre-release material. Their first point of release would be BitTorrent trackers, Usenet groups, and Internet Relay Chat (IRC). Hence, you need to do some research to find the right source. Once you have downloaded the file, scan it for viruses. This is extremely important. 

Final Words 

If you download any file without any verification, we can assure you that you will be exposed to some serious danger. Stay away from any illegal or unethical downloading practices, and always use a secure internet network.