Downloading of software is something that people do frequently. If it comes to the productivity tools, entertainment applications, or system utilities, users can find a wide variety of options on the Internet.
However, this convenience has its challenges, including; malware, phishing, and hacking attacks on user accounts. Hence, it is important to observe all measures that can be taken to avoid compromising your safety while downloading a software.
Here in this blog post will be explaining the basic steps that should be followed to ensure safety and security.
Unearth the Truth: Investigate Before You Install
As with any software, it is highly recommended to do your homework before downloading it. This step is the first barrier against the penetration of viruses and other unwanted elements into your computer. Begin with the reviews and ratings given by the users on the reliable websites such as CNET, TechRadar, and PCMag. Search for software that has a good rating and has been recommended by many people who have used it. Also, do not overlook the reputation of the developer of the particular application. Software developed by a well-known and reputed developer is safer and more reliable compared to software developed by an unknown developer.
Stick to the Known Path: Use Official Sources Only
Piracy software and other software that are downloaded from the internet may contain malware, whereas, downloading the software from official website and app stores minimizes the chances of getting the software containing malware. The official websites are usually safer to use since they employ strict measures to protect the users. For mobile devices, go to app stores such as Google Play for android devices and App store for iOS devices. These platforms have measures in place that ensure the software is genuine and safe for use by the consumers. Do not download software from third-party sites as they contain lots of malware and other security threats.
Authenticate Before You Activate
When downloading from the official sources, it is still necessary to check the authenticity of the software. Look for the integrity of the software by checking the digital signature to avoid being tricked into installing a contaminated software. An encrypted digital signature ensures that the software is from a genuine source and has not been tampered with since it was signed. Often, the information about the digital signature is located in the properties of the respective software. Furthermore, check the file size and the hash values displayed on the download page with the ones of the downloaded file. Any difference can be a signal that the file might have been tampered with and is therefore unsafe to use.
Understand Your Agreement: Don’t Skip the EULA
The End User License Agreement (EULA) is a legal contract that defines the rights and the restrictions of the software usage. Even though it is possible to just scroll through the EULA, this section defines what the program is capable of and the data it may gather. Be especially careful with the clauses that refer to data gathering, sharing with the third parties, and user consent. In case the EULA looks too invasive or dubious, it is better not to download the particular software. It also enables you to make a better choice and also protect your privacy since you will have a clue of what the EULA entails.
Be Cautious with Free Software
Free software is usually very appealing, but it is usually not as safe as it seems. Here are some precautions to take when downloading free software:
- Check for Adware: Most of the free software contain adware that show pop-ups or monitor your activity on the internet. Always pay attention to the installation prompts and do not agree to install any other software.
- Avoid Cracked Versions: Using cracked versions of paid software is unlawful and they come with viruses. Do not use pirated versions of software as they are unlawful.
- Use Reliable Sources: Get the software from recognized sites such as SourceForge, GitHub, or the official site of the software.
Free software is safe as long as some measures are taken and the software is downloaded from a reputable source.
Use Security Tools
Using security tools is one of the measures that should be taken when downloading software. Here are some recommended tools:
- Antivirus Software: Make sure you have a good anti-virus program on your computer. This will assist in identifying and eradicating the malware before it can cause harm to your system.
- Firewall: A firewall is a protective shield between your computer and the internet which can pose a threat to the computer. Be sure that your firewall is turned on and set to the correct settings.
- VPN: Connecting to a VPN (Virtual Private Network) increases your security since it hides your IP address and encrypts your connection. VPN by Surfshark especially effective when downloading a program from a public Wi-Fi connection, as it protects against hackers’ interception of your data.
These tools are used in conjunction to offer a complete shield against different forms of threats on the Internet.
Keep Your Software Updated
This is a general rule that should be followed since updating the software will help you to maintain the security. Software updates are usually accompanied by new security fixes that may have been discovered between the current version and the previous one. Here’s what you should do:
- Enable Automatic Updates: Almost every software out there has the option of automatic update. This is important so that you can always update the system to the latest security patches.
- Regularly Check for Updates: In case the software you are using does not have the feature of automatic update, it is advisable to have a routine of updating the software.
- Update Your Operating System: Do not overlook the need to update the operating system since it is an important component of the system’s security.
Failure to update the software exposes your system to attacks hence the need to update the software from time to time.
Avoid Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are one of the most typical ways that cybercriminals employ to lure users into installing malware. Some of these usually take the form of emails or messages that are in the name of the genuine businesses. Do not trust emails from unknown senders, especially those that contain the request to download the file or click the link. Cross-check the sender’s email address and check for other signs like the use of wrong spelling, a general salutation and the use of haste language. If you are in doubt about the authenticity of an email, you should get in touch with the sender of the email through other means of communication other than the email at your disposal.
Use Sandboxing for Unknown Software
If you have to install and execute applications from an unverified or relatively unfamiliar source, it is advisable to do it in a sandbox. Sandboxing works by running the software in an environment that is separate from the other applications, thus it cannot write or read to any other part of the system. Some of the sandboxing tools include Sandboxie and Windows Sandbox that can be used when installing new software. When using sandboxing, you are able to test the software’s functionality with no harm to your operating system.
Backup Your Data Regularly
Data backup is an important feature of any security solution that must not be overlooked. If you have recently downloaded a virus or another type of malware, a recent backup will help you avoid losing a lot of data. Local and cloud backup methods should be employed to increase the protection of data. Back up the data and check that the backup has been done correctly on specific time intervals. This way, you have a backup plan that can be used in case of emergencies and this gives you security and you can easily get over the losses that you have incurred because of the security breach.