12 Myths About Security Systems Busted

Your home, your computer and even your phone are all a lot safer when you protect them with good security protocols. While that may sound like common sense, I know far too many people who pay little attention to security systems.

Security systems can come in many forms, including antivirus software for cybersecurity and home security systems for your house. These will keep you safe even when you’re far from home.

We've identified 12 security systems myths many Americans fall into, specifically regarding home security and cybersecurity. I'm warning you now: Go into this with an open mind.

‘I Have a Mac, so I Don’t Need Antivirus Software'

Apple faithfully walks around like they're so invincible. But the truth is, our Macbooks and our iMacs are not infallible.

Macs are susceptible to viruses, just like PCs. They can be affected by everything from malware and DDoS attacks to keyloggers. So, make sure you have good antivirus software on your Mac to protect you.

The Police Are Called as Soon as Security Alarms Activate

We all remember that movie Panic Room with Jodie Foster and a young Kristen Stewart. A lofty security system should keep you and your home safe. But first, you need to know how to use it.

One big misconception is that as soon as your alarm activates, the system will automatically contact the police. This is not always true. Often, you’ll need to confirm that activation before the police are called.

Cybersecurity Threats Can’t Come From Within

As some wise rulers have said, many nations aren’t undone by outside threats but from the inside. Similarly, digital security experts constantly have to remind users that cybersecurity threats aren’t just external but can be internal as well.

As one example of a major internal security breach, Boeing engineer Greg Chung stole $2 billion worth of aerospace documents and gave them to China.

CCTV Cameras Keep Away Criminals

It’s a rough and tumble world out there these days. A “Beware of Dog” sign outside your home has now also escalated to having visible cameras — the logic goes, to deter criminals.

However, while a CCTV camera is a start, some criminals will remain undaunted. There’s also a risk that these cameras can be damaged or misused.

Simple Passwords Keep Your Devices Safe

Sadly, the world’s most popular password is still the super imaginative “123456.” Stop. A good password contains a mix of letters, numbers and characters. Use a strong password manager to generate one and store it. As the old saying goes, there’s levels to this.

On top of that, you’ll also want to incorporate two-factor authentication, a security method that requires two forms of identification to log in.

Phishing Scams Are Easily Sussed Out

Phishing refers to scams that come through email and other channels that pretend to be from a reputable source, like Amazon, but really aren't. The goal is to steal your personal information: passwords, credit card information, and the like.

And while these scams are sometimes obvious, that isn’t always the case, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) is now being used to make the scams feel more convincing. When in doubt, only deal with emails from email addresses that you recognize and trust.

Antivirus Software Is a Good Enough Safeguard

About 61% of Americans use free antivirus software. While we’re glad to see more than half of people taking digital security safety seriously, these kinds of software are usually just the start.

It’s important to incorporate a good firewall service and have a solid VPN. It’s also about your habits. Avoid dangerous sites and downloading unsafe files, including tempting torrents.

Cybersecurity Attacks Only Involve Big Companies

Another big cybersecurity myth is that attacks only involve major companies. Sure, headlining events like DDoS attacks at Google and GitHub grab headlines and create anxiety. But even small businesses can be implicated.

In fact, according to computer security service StationX, 48% of SMBs (small and mid-size businesses) have experienced a cyber security incident.

‘I Can’t Be Hacked Without a Computer'

Computers aren’t the only devices that cybersecurity issues can impact. There are also your phones and tablets.

In addition, just because you don’t have your own computer doesn’t mean the laptop you use at your friend’s place, FedEx Store, or library can’t be impacted and breached with your personal data on it. In the world we live in today, everyone uses a computer in some form or another.

Antivirus Software Bogs Things Down

Another justification some people have for not getting good antivirus software on their devices is that it will slow down their computers. Of course, the same people won’t talk about your computer moving like molasses if it’s impacted by viruses.

The bottom line is that with a decent computer and reputable antivirus software, your computer’s performance won’t be (or barely be) impacted by running antivirus software, even if you're gaming.

Public Wi-Fi Is Safe

According to Forbes, as of last April, 35% of people access public Wi-Fi three to four times a month, and a shocking 20% use it to make financial transactions. But users don’t think nearly enough about the security of these networks.

It's always a good idea to use a secure firewall and VPN when on public Wi-Fi. You probably shouldn’t browse your Chase.com account either.

Being Infected With a Virus Is Obvious

Just like an actual zoonotic virus that affects us humans, not all viruses rear their ugly heads early. Sometimes, it’s a lot more subtle and insidious.

You can’t always use slow performance or weird, random pop-up ads as a tell. Sometimes, a sign of a computer virus can be your battery draining faster than usual. So, it's best to rely on robust antivirus software.