Welcome to Cybersecurity in 31 Days. I’m Malan Faya, your host. Today is Day 20. To view previous posts, click here.

To cybercriminals, an unprotected computer that’s always connected to the Internet can seem like an unlocked door. Malicious attackers can scan computers online for undefended systems.

You need to protect your home computer. Use a password that doesn’t appear in the dictionary (combine letters and numbers). On a regular basis, change the password. Also, install a firewall on your desktop or laptop computer to protect your equipment against unauthorized access from hackers. This way, whenever or if ever cyber attackers run scans for unsecured ports on your computer, the firewall would block them.

When you are not using your computer, turn it off or put it to sleep.