Fow Chee Kang, a specialist at digital security services firm LGMS, said the steps include constantly checking and keeping the devices updated, and using only trusted networks for Internet connection.
“Always avoid using public wifi and any wifi that is protected by a weak password (for example, ‘abcd1234’ or a phone number).
“Best to stay connected only with your home wifi, or mobile data if you are on the move,” he told FMT, adding that installing antivirus software with regular updates on virus definitions was also important.
He said people should also use only genuine applications, or apps as they are popularly called, and not download or install unknown apps, and always be cautious against scams and phishing emails.
“People can still download apps online, but only from the original application provider’s website,” Fow said.
As an example, he said, one should download Google Chrome only from Google’s website, and not from any other site that provides the same application.
“Always scan any downloaded file with an updated anti-virus programme and remove the file if a threat is detected.
“As there is always a new threat coming up which antivirus programmes may not be able to detect, users should also stay vigilant in downloading any files from the Internet,” he said.
Apple issued an alert on Friday that all iPhones, iPads and Mac computers are vulnerable to a major security flaw that leaves these devices open to hacking.
It was reported that researchers had found the flaw in the very core of computer chips, making almost any recent device insecure and vulnerable to giving up sensitive information it possessed.
The bug could affect everything from a smartphone to servers.
Fow, who specialises in hacking and cyber defence techniques, said one can keep a Google or Firefox browser updated and also check for updates by simply going to the Help tab and clicking on the “About Google Chrome” or “About Firefox” option.
He then gave the following tips for all computer and mobile devices users.
“Turn on your anti-virus’ active scanning feature. Some anti-virus provide a secure browsing feature which could help you to stay away from threats.
“Always perform anti-virus scans on the downloaded files. Be vigilant against potential scams or phishing websites. Hold to the principle of ‘too good to be true’.
“Do not store a password in your browser, and avoid reusing passwords for multiple websites. Also, activate the pop-up blocker in your browser.
“Use ‘https’ and check for the ‘green padlock’ symbol on your browser to verify the legitimacy of a website,” he said.
Fow also advised users to apply fixes given by system providers such as Microsoft and Apple that periodically repair newly-discovered security flaws in their systems.
“Hence it is very important to perform ‘Windows Update’, or install ‘Updates’ from your Apple ‘App Store’. This practice should also be applied to your mobile or tablet devices,” he said.
Fow said similar security flaws could occur in the future when an app or programme is not designed and written properly, although most known flaws are normally addressed by the app providers.