In the last twenty years, the use of personal electronic devices has skyrocketed. The Internet of Things (IoT) technology has widened the world’s access to information, and consumers continue to add multiple devices to their personal collections. Although this technological surge has undeniably helped average citizens gain access to data, it also opens the door to hackers and criminals ready to take advantage of a connected society. Personal data like credit card numbers, social security numbers and tax information are stored on electronic devices, and many consumers are unaware of how to protect their data and devices adequately. In the following sections, you can examine how to safeguard your electronics and information.
Power Surges
To effectively secure your electronics, you need to adopt a multi-layered approach that combines physical and online protections. Wireless devices have allowed users to access the internet from any location without being tethered to a cord, but when you have to charge the device, it’s essential to know the stability of the power source. When you charge a phone or computer from a public location, you probably assume that the source of electricity will charge the device safely without damaging it. However, you have no way of knowing without questioning a manager or electrician who installed the system. In your home, you can protect your electronic devices by installing home surge protection. An electrical storm or power surge can wreak havoc on devices connected to the power grid, but with surge protection that covers your entire home, your devices will remain undamaged after a significant power surge. Try to charge your devices at home or at locations that you trust to avoid costly damage to your electronics.
Temperature Control
Electronic devices are more durable than the models made in the early 21st century, but they are still susceptible to extreme conditions like excessive heat and freezing temperatures. Typically, electronics function best in cool and dry conditions. It’s not practical to keep your devices in a dry environment at all times, but you can take steps to minimize your machine’s direct contact with intense sunlight or frigid cold. For instance, you can avoid leaving your electronics on your car seat when you visit a store. During the summer, the internal temperature of your car’s cabin can exceed 120° F. If you have to leave a device in a vehicle, store it in a protective case or place it in a glove box or center console. When a device becomes overheated or frozen from the cold, turn it off and keep it in a case until you can restart it in a more favorable location. Powering off the electronics will minimize the effect of extreme temperatures and give the devices time to rest and recover. Until hardware engineers design more durable circuits, you’ll have to rely on your common sense to safeguard your electronics.
Securing Cords and Transformers
In your home, you may have multiple devices charging at the same time. If you have several cords dangling from outlets around the house, the family pet or your long children may trip over the cord and launch a device into a wall or hardwood floor. Try to establish a central location to charge your devices that doesn’t interfere with the foot traffic in your home. Wireless chargers and docking stations can help reduce the number of cables and cords you have attached to outlets.
Online Security
After addressing the physical protection of your electronics, you should examine your online security. With more users accessing the web than ever before, more criminals find creative ways to steal your data and identity. Purchase a security program from a highly rated, experienced provider to protect you from cybercriminals. Use a program that provides several layers of protection and includes a virtual private network (VPN). In addition to using security software, you can protect your data by shutting down your unused social media accounts or websites. Outdated sites have limited security protections that have not been frequently updated.
Although protecting your personal electronics from multiple threats may seem daunting, you can use the previous suggestions to greatly reduce the possibility of damage to your devices and data.
