How to safeguard our personal and financial data?

The growing popularity of the use of computers now cause the threat to our personal and financial data. So, safeguard of our personal and financial data had become important now. How to safeguard our important data?

Here are some tips to safeguard our personal and financial data:
1.Use passwords and encrypt our important data- Passwords and other security features add layers of protection if used appropriately. Use a strong password or pass-phrase to protect access to your data. By encrypting files, you can ensure that unauthorized people can`t view your data even if they can physically access it. When you use encryption, it is important to remember your passwords and pass phrases; if you forget or lose them, you may lose your data.
2.Install a firewall- A firewall is a software program designed to allow good people in and keep bad people out. Most new computers come with firewalls integrated into their operating systems. Those who have a DSL or cable modem have an added layer of protection because these modems come with yet another firewall built in.
3.Use and maintain anti-virus software- Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable by using anti-virus software. Make sure to keep your virus definitions up to date.
4.Regularly scan your computer for spyware - Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may affect the performance of your computer and give attackers access to your data. Use a legitimate anti-spyware program to scan your computer and remove any of these files.
5.Keep software up to date - Install software patches so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should turn it on.
6.Temporary data storage- If you need to store sensitive/confidential data temporarily on a memory stick, laptop, or other device, remove that data from the device when you have finished. Ensure that data has been completely erased and not just deleted.
7.Dispose of sensitive information properly - Simply deleting a file does not completely erase it. To ensure that an attacker cannot access these files, make sure that you adequately erase sensitive files.
8.Avoid accessing financial information in public- Resist logging on to check your bank balance when working from a coffee shop that offers wireless access. These systems are convenient, but also unknown. Casual users have no way of assessing how sturdy their firewalls are.
9.Update your browser- Updating your browser on a regular basis can help plug up security holes, so make it a habit.
10.Don't open mystery attachments- Never open an attachment or click on a link sent to you by an unknown party. Attachments can contain viruses and links can lead unsuspecting users to dummy sites where they are asked to input financial information.