The average web user, according to a recent study, spends more than 30 hours a month on their computer. While some are just messing around playing games and killing time or getting updates about their favorite sports teams or athletes, some use the computer for more serious things. For instance, online banking has become quite popular, and about 53 million Americans do their banking online. Though doing banking and other tasks online can be quite convenient, it does mean that internet security protection is more important. Fortunately, there are several simple cyber crime prevention tips that web users can use to protect their vital information.

Use Solid Passwords

Though it can be tough to remember tricky passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and even punctuation, that can be the best way to protect bank accounts and other private pages. Hackers are better able to access accounts that have weak passwords, so adding an additional keystroke is an easy way to increase online safety.

Secure WiFi

Public or unsecured WiFi connections can be dangerous because they make it easier for hackers to find information that they are not supposed to have access to. Cyber security is virtually nonexistent on public networks, so making bank or shopping transactions there can be quite risky. Using secure WiFi connections is much safer.

Download Security Programs

There is lots of security software, both free and paid, that makes it easier for web users to stay safe online. Installing and using it properly can go a long way towards making sure that important data stays protected. When trouble arises, the best programs have help centers that are able to troubleshoot and help make sure a computer is protected.

Avoid Scams

Many of the viruses and other problems that people run into online are, at least in part, because of their own doing. There are lots of viruses and spyware programs that disguise themselves as upgrades to a computer, which can be tricky. So before downloading anything, web users should make sure that they know exactly what they are getting and where it is coming from for proper cyber crime prevention.

In addition, there are lots of other techniques that can be used for cyber crime prevention. But, for the most part, preventing crimes simply means being careful online. Not sending out information to unverified sources or downloading mysterious programs can go a long way towards making sure viruses do not destroy a computer and hackers are not able to access bank accounts, credit cards, and other information that they shouldn’t.