How to Protect Your Computer After Being Scammed – Essential Security Steps

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Over its 30+ years of existence, Microsoft’s Windows operating system has become a ubiquitous presence, powering over 1.3 billion devices worldwide. However, even seasoned Windows users can run into roadblocks. In this guide, we’ll share insider tips and tricks to help you work through Windows frustrations and unlock the platform’s full potential.

Managing Files and Folders

One of the most common pain points for Windows users involves file and folder management. Thankfully, there are a few handy shortcuts to streamline navigation:

  • Right-click inside any folder to access the handy "Open command window here" option. This launches a command prompt directly in that folder location for quick file tasks.

  • Use the search bar in File Explorer to instantly find files instead of endlessly browsing folders. Just start typing the file name and matching results will populate.

    How does Windows 11 protect user identities?

    Windows 11 devices can protect user identities by removing the need to use passwords from day one. It’s easy to get started with the method that’s right for your organization. A password may only need to be used once during the provisioning process, after which people use a PIN, face, or fingerprint to unlock credentials and sign into the device.

    Is Windows 10 the most secure windows ever?

    Windows 10 was launched in July 2015 in a context infused with talks about security and privacy. As online safety became a priority for an important group of users (often key opinion leaders), Microsoft turned this into a selling point. Windows 10 was boldly described as ” the most secure Windows ever .”

  • The Alt+Up Arrow keyboard shortcut jumps you back to the parent folder of your current location. Hit it multiple times to keep moving up the folder hierarchy.

Mastering small shortcuts like these can save tons of time when working with files and folders in Windows.

Customizing the Interface

While Windows 10 offers more personalization options than past versions, the OS still imposes some restrictions on UI tweaking. Here are a couple tips for flexing your customization muscles:

  • Utilize third-party tools like Open-Shell to change interface elements like the Start menu and taskbar. This grants more fine-tuned control vs the built-in settings.

  • Adjust your taskbar’s position by unlocking it, right-clicking, and selecting "Position on screen." Move it to the top or side depending on your preference.

  • Use the color picker under Personalization settings to manually choose taskbar/Start menu colors instead of preset themes. This opens up a world of options.

Don’t settle for Windows’ default appearance – put these interface customization tips to work for a truly personalized experience.

Does Windows 10 have a security and Privacy Guide?

We hope that our comprehensive guide on Windows 10 security and privacy proved to be helpful. And to make it easier for you to put the advice into practice, here’s a free and downloadable version of our guide. Save it on your device and check it whenever you feel the need.

Does Windows 10 have privacy settings?

When connected to the network during this portion of setup, the user can also review the privacy statement. A brief overview of the set up experience for privacy settings is described in Windows Insiders get first look at new privacy screen settings layout coming to Windows 10, a blog entry on Windows Blogs.

Boosting Performance

A slow, sluggish Windows environment can make even the simplest tasks feel like pulling teeth. Give your system a kick with these performance boosting tips:

  • Clean up clutter with the Storage Sense tool. It removes temporary files, empties the recycle bin, and compresses older files you aren’t using.

  • Check Startup apps under Task Manager and disable any you don’t need launching at bootup. This prevents unnecessary resource drain.

  • Switch to a solid state drive if you’re still on a mechanical hard disk. The speed increase is incredible.

With a few targeted tweaks, you can keep your Windows environment running smooth and responsive even after years of use.

Securing Your System

As data breaches run rampant, solid security habits are crucial. Lock down your Windows machine properly with these expert tips:

  • Enable ransomware protection under Windows Security’s Virus & threat protection settings. This safeguards your files from encryption.

  • Turn on firewall and antivirus software if not already running. Leverage these layers of defense.

  • Only download software from trusted sites – avoid crackers, keygens, pirated games, and other risky files.

    Does Windows 10 have antivirus?

    Windows Security is built-in to Windows and includes an antivirus program called Microsoft Defender Antivirus. (In early versions of Windows 10, Windows Security is called Windows Defender Security Center). If you have another antivirus app installed and turned on, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will turn off automatically.

    How do I know if Windows 10 has a virus?

    Open the Windows Security app by searching the start menu for Security, and then selecting Windows Security. Select the Virus & threat protection tile (or the shield icon on the left menu bar). Select Virus & threat protection updates. The currently installed version is displayed along with some information about when it was downloaded.

  • Setup a PIN or biometrics for quick, secure sign-in vs typing your password every time.

With vigilance and proper security protocols, you can protect your system from the bulk of cyberthreats.

Wrapping Up

Mastering Windows doesn’t have to be an exercise in frustration. Equipped with the right tips and tricks, even newcomers to the platform can work efficiently and customize the OS to their exact needs and preferences. We hope these pointers provide a useful head start – here’s tohappy Windows sailing ahead!

What obstacles do you commonly hit when using Windows, and what tactics help you overcome them? We’d love to hear your experiences and advice in the comments below!

References

  1. https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/11213-secure-computer-from-hackers.html
  2. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/keep-your-computer-secure-at-home-c348f24f-a4f0-de5d-9e4a-e0fc156ab221

How do I configure Windows security & threat protection?

Select Virus & threat protection. Use one or more of the subsequent sections to perform tasks using the Windows Security app. If these settings are configured and deployed using Group Policy, the settings described in this section will be greyed-out and unavailable for use on individual endpoints.

How do I check account protection on Windows 10?

To check the account protection on Windows 10, use these steps: Open Windows Security. Click on Account protection. Confirm that Microsoft account, Windows Hello, and Dynamic lock have a green mark indicating that everything is working correctly. Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

How does Windows 11 protect you from new threats?

In Windows client, hardware and software work together to help protect you from new and emerging threats. Expanded security protections in Windows 11 help boost security from the chip, to the cloud. See the following articles to learn more about the different areas of Windows threat protection:

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