best antivirus software for microsoft windows xp

Best Anti-virus for Microsoft windows Operating System (OS) XP

Windows XP was an excellent os for Microsoft that generated overwhelming popularity from the public and businesses alike. XP proved to be user-friendly, highly able and the most popular os from Microsoft for about 10 decades, even after the release of Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows Vista and 7. Now that Microsoft Operating System (OS) has stopped upgrading support and protection up-dates to Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP, protection against viruses is vital if you want your XP pc to keep operating nicely. Without Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP antivirus application, you are at greater risk than most users, and your pc can become completely useless in a few months.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Test Results
The first thing to consider for any antivirus application applications are its capability to identify and eliminate viruses. Not all applications are reasonable quality, and some application applications are better at protecting your body against potential risks. AV-Test, an independent application analyze lab, analyse antivirus application for Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP on the effectiveness or, in some cases, inadequacy of its malware protection.

The very best antivirus application applications can discovering and removing Completely of the risks sent its way. Many applications perform reasonably, catching 96 or 97 % of the viruses AV-Test sends its way. Regardless, ensure that the antivirus application you buy for Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP can catch and eliminate a significant number of risks so you know your product secure.

System Usage
The next great differentiator between Microsof company windows XP malware protection applications comes down to how system-intensive the application is on your pc. If you still run Microsoft Operating System (OS)windows XP, a significant component in your decision should be the ability of your processor. If you have a relatively new pc with decent specifications, you can buy every antivirus application on the market without having to worry about your body performance. However, if you are looking for antivirus application for a more mature machine, the handling energy required to run antimalware applications effectively can be a concern. If you have limited RAM or handling speed, consider an antivirus system that doesn't take a large toll on your body.

Regardless of whether your Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP hardware is relatively new or rather old, it's still a wise decision to look for applications that are not as resource-intensive during up-dates, tests or viruses removal, just to be secure. Generally, the mature your pc gets, the less effective it is at operating new application, such as antivirus application, which is constantly upgrading.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Features
Every system on our collection can identify numerous types of viruses, including spyware, rootkits and basic viruses. What distinguishes the best antivirus application from the others are extra functions that provide more protective techniques to combat viruses attacks. For example, many applications provide you with the capability to create a backup recovery disk so that you can recover your pc after it has been infected.

Other applications can performing weeknesses tests, in which the antimalware application searches for outdated applications on your pc to see if it can find any weaknesses for viruses to pass through. Finally, the best antivirus application for Microsoft Operating System (OS) windows XP can launch a virtual browser, helping you to run websites separate from your pc to check it for weaknesses. You may not need all of these functions for your personal use; just ensure that the application you buy can handle all of your needs.

Windows XP was an excellent os when it first became available, and its strengths have remained present throughout the decades. With the right tools, you can using XP even though it no longer receives up-dates from Microsoft Operating System (OS). Virus protection application for Microsoft company windows XP is designed to be lighter than other protection systems, helping you to use it with mature processor chips. With XP antivirus application installed, you can surf the internet, view media and run extra applications without worrying about viruses breaking down the system and making your pc almost useless.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

runtime trojans how to avoid trojan computer virus

A growing danger all PC users are facing these days is the runtime packed Trojan. These malware programs are designed to infect your PC and keep it from working properly. To avoid them, it's best to have an understanding of what they are and how they operate so you will be more equipped to avoid them.

Top-Best Antivirus Software for total online and Offline Computer Security.

What is a Trojan?
Let's start at the beginning. A "Trojan" is a program that appears to be something helpful (i.e. anti-spyware, essential download) when in reality it is actually a harmful program that can open up unauthorized access to your PC and its settings. Runtime refers to a Trojan that continues to actively "run." So, rather than just being downloaded and dropping its nasty little package, the Trojan runs continuously in the background of your PC. The reason for this is that usually the Tojan is designed to open up a port and keep it open, letting some hacker or malicious server have access to your PC. A packed runtime Trojan is a program that contains something inside it, generally a hunk of malware. The Trojan "packs" its contents and makes it smaller in hopes of the malware going undetected.

What sorts of malware are "packed"? Anything that can do a job secretly and that is small. This usually means spyware, so little keylogging programs, web-monitors and even simple tracking cookies can all be part of a Trojan's payload.

How are Runtime Packed Trojans Disguised?
More often than not, a runtime packed Trojan makes its appearance as something benign or something essential to the functionality of your PC. Clever advertising and disguises make it difficult to determine potential threats from necessary updates.
As a general rule, always be cautious when downloading:

1) An attachment in an e-mail Many Trojans can be spread by worms. These worms will hijack email addresses of people you know and trust. If the email is vague and points you to a link that you don't recognize, be suspicious. If it came from a friend, call and ask if they sent it.

2) A codec your PC doesn't have that is needed to access a multimedia file Codecs are programs that tell your browser how to interpret/display media, like videos. Some are legit and well known, like codecs for Adobe Flash or Microsoft Silverlight. The key here is that - if most videos already work for you and a website says theirs won't - be suspicious.

3) A plug-in for your browser Is it useful? Is it reviewed? Is it from a reputable source?

4) A free, downloadable security scanner or an "anti-spyware" program of some sort There are lots of good, legitimate free scanners our there, but there are also some scams. These are called "rogues," and work by using exaggerated or false reports of malware to scare you into buying a license. If a security program shows up on your computer and you didn't install it, it likely came from a Trojan.

When you do download files, make sure you always scan files for infection before you download or open them; and, of course, it's always a good idea to check up on any program before you install it. Reliable download sites like http://www.download.com have customer reviews and expos on hundreds of programs.

What Do these Trojans Do?
There are thousands of these little Trojans out there and each one can carry out a particular malicious function. But in general, most runtime packed Trojans will have the same effect on your PC.
1) Monitor and log your online activity without your permission.
2) Download files without your permission.
3) Slow down your downloads and operating system speed.
4) Disable antivirus software and firewalls.
These are just a few examples of what these Trojans are capable of. But if you are noticing the above symptoms, it's possible your PC could be infected.

As mentioned above, a new trend in packed Trojans is to appear disguised as free anti-spyware. By downloading this type of Trojan, your PC will experience dozens of pop-up windows of "threats" found by the malware. The malware usually recommends buying a specific product to "fix" the fake security issues. Once the PC user purchases the fake security software, the fake threats disappear; however your PC is also left unprotected and you shelled out good money for a fake fix. Vundo and Zlob Trojans are examples of these prolific anti-spyware rogues.

How Do I Get Rid of It?
If it's too late to prevent getting a Trojan, this sequence for troubleshooting should help with most uninvited Trojans that have taken over your system.

1) First thing's first, make sure you have a reliable anti-spyware scanner and anti-virus scanner before you get any infections. You don't have to keep them running all the time, but you should routinely update their definitions.

2) Disconnect your PC from the Internet. This way you can prevent further interference from outside sources. You can disable a network adapter or simply disconnect the ethernet cable and/or turn off the modem.

3) Restart your PC in Safe Mode by pressing the F8 key as it reboots.

4) Pressing F8 brings up a menu on a black screen with one option being safe mode. Once you can access safe mode, you can log into your computer with only the minimal number of functions running. This cuts off a maliciously installed software that doesn't operate as "essential" to the system. Open your (up-to-date) antivirus software.

5) Run a deep scan on your PC from your antivirus software first. You want to make sure that it removes all occurrences of the malware from your computer.

You will want to make sure that your antivirus is looking for and finding the specific kind of malware files you have on your PC. You may have to run the scan several times or use multiple kinds of antivirus and anti-spyware utilities. Remember the two are different and work in different ways. Run the antivirus first and then the anti-spyware, one will likely find the Trojan and the other will likely find the spyware it left behind.

If your scanner(s) don't initially succeed try others. A reputable download site will have various options, and all of the major brands have free versions that will provide what you need in an emergency: Microsoft Security Essentials, McAfee, Symantec, Panda, Trend-Micro, Avast AntiVirus, Ad-Aware, Spybot S&D, etc.

For more information on Optimizing your PC, visit our extensive information blog at http://www.fixcleaner.com/blog Here, you can find easy access to articles on fixing errors and optimizing all sorts of Windows functions. You can even get tips and tricks on how to navigate your way across the new frontier of Internet Social Media.

Julie Dreese is a freelance writer and editor who attempts to perform her own tech support through thorough research and anyone-can-do-it solutions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Julie_Dreese/757616

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best microsoft windows vista antivrus software

Best Anti-virus for Microsoft windows Vista

The primary goal behind the creation of Microsoft windows Windows vista was to improve the security of the Microsoft windows based pc after criticisms of its predecessor's weaknesses. Despite the security improvements developed specifically for Microsoft windows vista, advanced viruses was created to break or circumnavigate the security systems in position.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Even though Microsoft designed Microsoft windows vista to be naturally secure, third-party anti-spyware application applications are the best measure against strikes from viruses. The best Microsoft windows Windows vista antivirus application allows you to relax, knowing that your body is secure from potential risks. However, finding the right Microsoft windows vista antivirus system can be a tricky and difficult process. We analyzed and refined the top choices through the following requirements to help you keep your body secure.

Performance
All Microsoft windows Windows vista security applications have the capability of discovering different types of viruses, including basic viruses and competitive rootkits. The real difference among these products is not if they can find and remove viruses, but how good they are at discovering these risks. AV-Test, an independent analyze lab, analyse the best antivirus applications on the market, running them through extensive tests to determine each program's ability to identify both brand-new and older viruses. So, while you're looking for the best Microsoft windows vista antivirus application, check out the efficiency a lot of each system to makes it able to catching brand-new risks as well as established viruses. The best application ratings 99 or even 100 percent in security, so pay special attention to these applications.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Features
All the antivirus application we analyzed for Microsoft windows Windows vista offers email security, instantly clears contaminated information, tests messages and quarantines dangerous information so they can't spread to other information. However, only some of these applications can create bootable save drives that allow you to recover an contaminated computer, which can be incredibly helpful. Additionally, not every system defends against strikes via USB storage devices or has antiphishing investments in position. Ensure that to look for applications that meet all of your needs before making your choice.

Another element to consider when looking for antivirus application applications are how influential this method is on the host os. The top antivirus applications have no impact on your body efficiency, meaning you can visit websites, download information, use different applications and so on without any efficiency disturbance from the antimalware system. However, most applications have at least some effect on the human body's efficiency, generally a recession of around three seconds, which isn't terrible but is still noticeable.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Even with enhanced peace of mind in position with Microsoft windows Windows vista, antivirus application allows you to relax. Many can give you all the security you need. As new viruses appears every day, antivirus application advances to stay on top of these growing risks. Anti-virus application for Microsoft windows Windows vista helps your body remain secure against these continuous and ever-changing risks.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

guide on how to prevent online identity theft fraud and scam

Prevent identity theft this holiday season by simply being smarter than your assailants. There is no better identity theft protection than education on the subject, and knowledge of the ways to keep you protected. Whether you're cruising Facebook or Twitter, or doing some holiday shopping online, it's always important to be aware of how to prevent identity theft.

How to Be Secured Online Here: CyberSecurity and CyberSafety Guide 

Here are a few little tips to help you prevent identity theft during this busy holiday shopping season:
Watch out for that keen eye that is just waiting to catch a glimpse of your pin number. Whether you are purchasing something with your debit card and entering your pin, or taking out cash to be a more responsible shopper, always be aware of your surroundings. This is the time of year when identity theft occurs nearly every minute around the nation, and if you can stay aware of your surroundings you will be one step ahead of the game.

Problem: Identity thieves glancing over your shoulder to see your pin.
Solution: Always cover or attempt to hide your pin number when entering it. It might look a little silly to some, and feel a little silly to others, but if you are in a sea of holiday shoppers waiting in line to take out cash or make a payment, you can never be too careful.

If you are using your debit and credit cards this holiday season, don't sign the back of the card. Yep, you heard me, don't sign the back of your card. To prevent identity theft you should write "please see ID" on the back of all of your cards. This will insure, hopefully, that as you checkout you will be asked for your driver's license. If they don't ask for your ID, be sure to tell management that there is sure to be an identity theft issue at their store.

Problem: Using debit and credit cards.
Solution: Always write 'please see ID' on the back of all of your cards.
Many of us take for granted the system of garbage pick-up that occurs throughout the nation. To prevent identity theft, it is crucial that you are aware of what you are throwing away, or recycling. Sure, it might make you feel wonderful to be helping out the environment by recycling all of your paperwork, invoices, and receipts. You should feel that way, however, you should also be shredding it all first. Many local areas will have shred-a-thons to help you get rid of all of that confidential information that absolutely anyone can see by digging through your trash. It may seem like a dirty job, but it is one of the most common ways that identity thieves will steal your information.

Problem: Tossing out receipts.
Solution: Use a shredder...always!
Everything is done over the internet these days. We'd rather talk to each other on Facebook and Twitter than meet face-to-face for some coffee. Complete strangers know more about us through our social updates than our own families do. Times certainly have changed, which is why you have to change your habits online. While we've talked about protecting your identity on social networks many times here, we also need to point out that it's imperative that you don't store absolutely everything on your computer.

If your computer is infected with a virus that was created by hackers and identity thieves, they can easily read your confidential information and use it to their advantage. In order to prevent identity theft on your computer, back up all of your personal information onto another hard drive that you can unplug. You can either purchase another small hard drive to use, or you may use a flash drive.
Problem: Computer viruses that can read your confidential information.
Solution: Store your personal information on another drive.

Lastly, and most importantly, check your bank statements and your credit reports frequently, especially during and just after the holiday season. This is prime time for identity thieves, and to prevent identity theft it's always best to stay on top of it. Know where you've spent your money, and know exactly how much you've spent. If there is something that doesn't look right or match up on your bank statement, don't hesitate to call them and discuss the problem. In most cases, they will be willing to work with you to figure out how that charge on your account came to be.
Problem: Reckless spending.

Solution: Always stay on top of your bank statements, and keep all receipts until the statement and charge has cleared.

While these are just a few was to prevent identity theft, I hope that we've brought to attention the multitude of ways that identity thieves attempt to steal your personal information. This list could go on and on, and the only way to stay protected is to stay informed. If you want more information on how to prevent identity theft, visit http://www.idsafeusa.com for more information.

Kandice Day is the founder of http://www.LinwrightDesign.com, a content marketer and web designer.

identity theft, identity theft protection, prevent identity theft, identity fraud, fraud protection

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Kandice_Day/478758

VoIP phone call tricks about virus on your pc home office computer online

The phone rings, you answer, and someone says they are from Microsoft or your Internet provider and have detected a virus on your PC. What next?

Well, it depends on how much time you have on your hands and your sense of humour, but before we get to that let's just explain what is going on here.

I've been plagued with these calls, often once or twice a week. Someone, usually with a heavy Indian accent, calls and reports that they are calling from 'Microsoft Security Centre', stating that they have 'detected viruses on my machine over the internet'.

Myth buster number one: This is not possible! Firstly, Microsoft never phones people to tell them that their PC is infected (assuming it actually is). Secondly, how would a company get your phone number based on your PC?

Top-Best Antivirus Software for total online and Offline Computer Security.

I had one such call recently and had a bit of time so I thought I'd a) waste their time so that they weren't conning some unsuspecting old lady, and b) find out exactly what they were doing in order to 'prove' to people that there were problems with their PCs. I had what is known as a 'virtual machine' installed - this is like Windows running as an app in Windows. It is totally ring-fenced, and to the outside world they could not tell any difference. By letting them run in a sand-boxed system I knew that my main system was completely safe.

Step 1 - they gain access to your PC
After you've admitted that you have a PC they'll start saying things like 'have you noticed it going slow recently'. Let's face it, all Windows PCs get slower over time, especially without a little bit of house-keeping, and they are never as fast as we want them to be. They will then ask you to go to a website and run an app. This part is actually legitimate as they are using a third party product that allows for remote support. You run an app, it displays a set of numbers which you then read out to the person on the phone, and they enter it into the software at their end - they can then see your desktop and control your keyboard/mouse as if they were in front of the PC. Note that at this stage your PC is not infected with anything - you've simply allowed remote control so that they can prove that your PC is compromised.

Step 2 - the convincer
Now they have to prove to you that there is a problem. The person that connected to me did two things:
a. They ran the Windows Event Viewer. This is an app installed on all versions of Windows that logs any errors that happen on the system. Note that an error to Windows is not always what we would consider an error. For example, when Windows boots up it'll check to see what printers are available. If you have a printer driver installed, but the printer is switched off that will log an error. So our friendly 'Microsoft Technician' told me to go into the Event Viewer and proceeded to show me all of the errors on my PC. He told me on no account to click on any of the line items as he said that this would damage things further. In reality he was concerned that I would read the error log and see that it was telling me that my printer was not switched on...

b. Next he opened a Dos window by running 'CMD' from the Start/Run option. He typed TREE /S, which is a simple command that shows every single file and folder on the PC. As you can imagine on even a fresh install of Windows there are tens of thousands of files, so this takes a few seconds as they go whizzing up the screen. And while that is going on he's typing something in the background which is only displayed once the computer has finished listing all of the files and folders. So at the end of this I could see 'System Error: Antivirus software disabled'. Of course, this was not actually the case!

At this point he's now 'convinced' that my PC is heavily compromised and that I need upgraded antivirus software. Bearing in mind that up to this point it had taken about 15 minutes.

Step 3 - the closer
They use standard sales tactics here of offering 'either/or' options rather than yes/no. He didn't say 'we can provide protection - would you like it'. It was more a case of 'we can provide one year at £199 or three years at £299'. For that he would download and install some antivirus software for me. Most probably this software would be loaded with its own viruses or malware, or worst still it would silently log all of your keystrokes and pass it back to them, providing all of your passwords as you move around the Internet. £199 is a lot of money in anyone's book for antivirus software. I don't pay anything for mine - there are plenty of free antivirus apps which sit quietly in the background doing their thing without costing you anything.

Anyway, back to our friendly tech support guy, who is now pushing to see which of his two options that I want. At this point I'd seen enough and advised him that he was playing around with a virtual machine and that I was simply wasting his time so that he did not scam any innocent people. Strangely he hung up after that...

So in summary all he'd done was connected to my PC, opened the Windows Event Viewer and run a harmless command in a Dos window before I cut him off, but it is easy to see how people get suckered in.

Golden rules
These rules help against any scammers, not just those trying to sell you antivirus software:

• If someone calls about a virus on your PC it is 100% a scam. Microsoft do not have time to call the millions of people around the world that get viruses on their PCs every week.


• Never give out any personal information on the phone unless you are 100% sure that the person/company calling you is legitimate. For example, I had a call from my bank's security company the other day. They asked me to give them my date of birth to check that I was me. I was not prepared to do that because I had no way to confirm that they were indeed my bank. So I asked them for their number and called them back (after verifying on the Internet that the number was indeed correct). Also, call from a different phone, as often scammers will stay on the line, and when you go to dial out they'll pretend to answer the phone so you think that you've rung them back again...


• Do not respond to telephone surveys. These are 'phishing scams' - they are trying to collect enough information about you in order to use your identity fraudulently. Maybe they've already managed to get some details about you, such as your name, address and social security number, but perhaps they just ask you to confirm your date of birth or mother's maiden name, which on their own you may not be suspicious of. Note that they may call you a couple of times over a period of time and ask different questions to build a profile on you.


• If they are making you an offer that is too good to be true then it probably is e.g. iPad for £50 etc. With the Internet these days it is very easy to validate a company. A quick search on the company name or website will generally reveal if it is a scam site or not.


• If you get suckered once you most likely will go onto a hotlist where others will try to scam you again a different way.

If you have time to kill
Finally, when these people do call, and call they will, you can always have a little fun. I actually posted this story onto a business forum I frequent to warn others, and it was hilarious to see what others were doing. My favourites were:

• Passing the phone to a toddler, who would simply make random noises down the phone to them
• Keeping a football whistle by the phone and blowing it full blast down the receiver - my personal favourite and one that I may well use in the future!
• Asking them to call your mobile number as your home phone battery is about to die, and then giving them a premium rate gay sex line
• Simply saying 'can you wait a moment, the doorbell's gone' a few minutes into the call, then keep coming back to the phone every few minutes saying 'won't be a moment'. One guy kept them on the line for 35 minutes
• Of course, the old classic of screaming down the phone at them is always great for relieving tension

If at least one person is not scammed as a result of this article then I'll be happy. These people preying on others that are trying to make the best of technology that simply don't have the IT skills to know they are being duped and are putting their PC and identities at even more risk.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Martin_E_Bailey/240614

antivirus software,telephone scams 

best microsoft windows 7 antivirus software

Best Anti-virus Application for Microsoft company windows 7

Although the pc rights Microsoft company sets in place may entice you to avoid purchasing third-party antivirus software, you should know that these rights are best used as a place to begin. Even though Microsoft company continually improves upon its built-in security systems, with each installment of Windows' built-in security getting better, third-party applications simply outshine Microsoft company Security Requirements. These built-in rights are designed for users who either try to get by without extra security software or don't realize other software applications are needed. However, reducing down the best antivirus for Microsoft company windows seven and your needs can seem like a daunting process. We analyzed the top artists and rated them based on their pros and cons to help you figure out the right program for you.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Test Results
The most essential aspect to consider when you search for the right security software applications are its capability to defend your pc against strikes. AV-Test, a well-respected independent analyze lab, tested every item we've analyzed and published its results. This lab analyzed the security abilities of each item by testing it against both brand-new risks and well-known, established viruses. By revealing hundreds of work stations networked to dozens of servers to ten million risks, AV-Test is able to determining which applications can keep your program safe quite accurately. Therefore, the performance of each Microsoft company windows seven antivirus program was the most significant element we used to find out our ratings.

Features
The next factor we considered for Microsoft company windows seven antivirus security was the applications feature set. Generally, the more functions an antivirus program has, the more you can customize the security level of your pc. All antivirus applications for Microsoft company windows seven have the capability of discovering the different types of viruses, such as Trojan viruses, spyware, viruses and rootkits, and they can all automatically clean infected information, check out compacted information and isolate risks. Differences between these products emerge in the form of more advanced functions, such as the capability to secure your pc from strikes that occur when you turn the pc on (registry startup), create bootable rescue disks and check out USB storage devices. While you hunt for the right Microsoft company windows seven virus security, look for software that includes a number of extra functions that can help you secure your program from nasty viruses.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

Although Microsoft company Security Requirements offers some security for your Microsoft company windows seven pc, it is best used as a temporary line of defense while you find the antivirus software that will serve your needs best. We found that Bitdefender, Kaspersky and Norton are the best options for Microsoft company windows seven antivirus security.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

online cybersecurity ways to prevent online identity theft

Identity theft is a big crime in America. In 2003, the federal government passed the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act. This created a new crime called "Aggravated Identity Theft" and empowered the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with the authority to track the number of incidents and dollar value of losses due to identity theft.

These FTC studies have shown that pure identity theft (taking over someone's identity) have steadily been declining but that fraud complaints (partial identity theft) are on the rise. This means that the criminal element behind ID theft has switched from assuming someone's identity entirely to merely using enough of it to perpetrate fraudulent thefts through consumer credit and similar frauds.

It's estimated that identity theft is the fastest-growing white collar crime in the U.S. and that more than 8.5 million Americans fall victim to it every year. So, are there ways to prevent identity theft?
Yes, there are lots of ways to prevent identity theft. We'll look at the "big 3" that are most recommended as minimum safeguards against becoming a victim of this crime. Most ID theft experts list these three things as the bare minimum every American should be doing to protect themselves.

#1: Watch Those Websites
The first of our top 3 ways to prevent identity theft is learning what you should and shouldn't put into a website and what to look for to make sure it's safe. Most victims of credit card fraud and identity theft are initially targeted through Internet scams and websites. While shopping online is relatively safe, there are certain things you should always look for before you enter any information into an online consumer site.

First, know what site you're dealing with. If the site is a large, reputable company like Amazon or Sears, then you're on the way to verifying it's okay. Make sure that the URL (site address) begins with what you know is the company's real address. So if you're shopping on Amazon.com, make sure the website address is something like "http://www.amazon.com" or "https://www.amazon.com" so you know that you're really on Amazon's website and not a fake.

Next, look for the security seal on the site before you enter any information. When the site asks you for a credit card, checking account, or other information for payment (or personal information about you such as your social security number or driver's license info), make sure the transmission to the site is secure.

Do this in two ways: look for the "https" at the beginning of the site URL in your address bar-that "s" denotes "secure." Then look in the corner of your browser-usually to the bottom right-for a padlock that is closed, or "locked." This is the universal symbol for a secure connection.
Finally, if you have any doubts whatsoever about the website or its security, DO NOT give it any information. When in doubt, don't buy. Simple as that.

#2: Keep It Off the Phone
If you don't know who you're talking to, don't give out any useful information about your identity. That seems pretty simple, but it's amazing how many people will give out their mother's maiden name (a common "security question" for credit cards) or even Social Security number without much question.

"Fishing" is a form of building a profile for identity theft in which a criminal who has basic information (like a credit card number) will call to get enough information to take over the card and even take out new credit in the victim's name. The criminal will make phone calls pretending to be someone from the card company, one of the utilities, a bank, etc. and ask for information they need as if it were part of a customer service call. Many fall for this.

If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from a credit card, bank, or other company and they need identifying information from you, tell them you'll call them back through their recognized corporate number (which you will get yourself from a bill or the phone book). Tell them you don't give out personal information on the phone if you can't be sure who you're talking to. They should understand and wait for you to call them back.

This simple precaution can almost totally prevent your private information from being stolen. Simply because a criminal with a stolen credit card number only has one avenue to steal from you. A criminal with a stolen credit card and your personal information can wreak havoc on your entire credit profile and empty your bank accounts faster than you might think.

#3: Keep Them Safe
When you're at the store, in the mall, or when you park your car, keep your credit cards, identification, and other valuables safe. If you carry a wallet, keep it in a wallet near your body where you can feel it rather than in a purse. This makes it harder to steal. When you use a card, cover your hand while you enter the PIN number or make sure to give ID to the clerk (whether they ask or not) to remind them that the card could be stolen.

When you park your car to go into a store or your home, DO NOT leave your personal identification and credit cards behind! Take them with you no matter what. Even a one minute into the Post Office to grab your mail can result in your wallet or purse being stolen. It takes just a couple of seconds to open the car door or break the window and take your things.

Last but not least, if you have children, protect their Social Security numbers as you do your own. Just because they're children doesn't mean their SS numbers can't be used to take out credit!

Hopefully these three ways to prevent identity theft are enough to keep you from becoming a victim. Our lives are complicated enough without having to deal with ruined credit and months of work to clear your name from stolen credit. A few simple precautions could be the ways to prevent identity theft that keep yours safe.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Travis_Stone/251657

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understanding conficker computer worm and how to prevent it from happening

Back in 2008 when the Conficker worm first hit, I, like many other IT Professionals was caught unprepared. We all know how to take care of malware and things like malicious coding since we do that on a daily basis, both at home and at work. Having a good anti-virus and malware/spyware programs are essential so it's important that if you don't have an antivirus, that you read up on antivirus reviews and select a program that is right for you. 

However, these security programs should also be complemented by a strong backup plan. The Conficker worm was different in that it seemed to just keep coming. You couldn't really just remove it and that would be the end of it. I often had to use removal tools to get rid of viruses and other worms, but this one was unique. Conficker seemed to change and it ended up looking like a root kit infection even though it actually wasn't. So I will share some of my observations on the Conficker situation and if you take these steps outlined here, you really shouldn't have much trouble in the future should you get a similar worm.

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Microsoft Server 2003 and Windows XP Professional were the two systems that were most targeted by the conficker worm. This is mainly because these two where the most widely used systems at the time. You see, what you have to understand is that Microsoft systems need to be updated regularly. This is because there are holes in the Operating system that people find and exploit. So Microsoft tries to find these flaws and patch them before they are exploited by a hacker. It's the same situation with your anti-virus, spyware/malware software. Having a program that protects you doesn't do you much good if it is not updated regularly. And don't ever think you don't need an antivirus, that way of thinking could be very dangerous. So check out antivirus reviews and get the best one you can find.

Keeping everything updated is one of the best approaches to avoiding a disaster. I know one big complaint from people is that running the updates is slow and very intrusive, and these complaints are valid. Updates do take time and do slow down computers. This is why a client-server model will use WSUS to update the systems locally instead of having each computer contact the Internet.

Another problem is people sometimes get so used to their computer running slow that they are clueless if they have been infected by the Conficker worm. This is because the major symptom of the Conficker is your computer running slow. So if you're used to your computer running slowly, it is likely you won't notice if you get infected by the Conficker. It's kind of a hit and miss when it comes to protection programs being able to spot the Conficker and remove it because as I said before, it just keeps coming back. But having a strong and updated antivirus will always help! If you need help selecting which antivirus is right for you, read antivirus reviews. While Conficker symptoms include a slow system, it also includes Pen drives failing to open, antivirus programs failing to update, and if you look more closely, you may notice some new files appearing. IT professionals will then start to get complaints that the user can no longer login.

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So how do we cure this kind of infection? It actually depends on whether you're an ordinary Joe using your computer at home or you are the administrator. Different situations require different solutions and many of these solutions can be found online. The first thing you have to do is to download and run a tool to remove the Conficker. Remember that when you run the Conficker removal tool you'll have to be disconnected from the Internet and any other networks that you might be connected to. The next thing you should do is install all the latest patches from Microsoft. This can be a very difficult task for a business' technician because he/she has the task of keeping the entire system up and running smoothly.

In situations like this it's important to look back at how we reacted and responded to this threat to determine what was done right and what was done wrong. What it comes down to is that most of us don't have a good enough plan in place to first, keep everything up to date and second, to keep everything properly backed up so a disaster could be prevented. We should always be ready to answer any threat because our jobs may depend on it. I can't emphasize enough the importance of keeping Microsoft, anti-virus and antispyware/anti-malware software updated.

In addition, we should backup our data and make system restore points regularly. It's also important to note that you should never overwrite your data with infected data contained in a recent backup. Keep some older backups to prevent this from happening. My fix for this involves temporarily disconnecting from the server, going after the Conficker worm on that one server and then to use the images to restore the system. This might take around 2 hours, including the testing that needs to be done. The software should come from the image or it was installed through MSI and silent install scripts. This will be done by the server itself after it's been cleaned of the worm. Afterwards, check and make sure that all the computers on the network have been properly patched. Run the tool to remove the Conficker worm on each computer just to be safe. Since everything was accomplished by the script, it was a pretty easy process.

Home users might encounter more problems recovering their data if they haven't made enough backups. However, there are many good recovery programs available for free online that can be used to help in this task. The main thing to learn from a Conficker worm attack is that one must always be ready and prepared for the absolute worst case scenario. Being ready means having the best software installed to combat these kinds of worms, including a strong antivirus software. If you have questions or you don't know which antivirus software to use, simply read antivirus reviews to find your answers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Rachy_A_Marifosque/1331781

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ranking antivirus software

Examining & Ranking Anti-virus Software

Test Results
One of the most main reasons of any PC antivirus protection is how well it finds, prevents and eliminates online risks. This is a difficult analyze to perform, though, since it requires you to deliberately infest your personal computer with the most harmful of online risks. The AV-Test Institution has created a standardized analyze that does exactly this and is recognized worldwide as the firm authority on the efficiency of antivirus application.
Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies  

 
Protection Tests
Several periods each year, AV-Test puts the top 20 to 30 antivirus applications through a examining routine that exposes them to several thousand online risks many periods over a four-week interval. AV-Test then calculates the outcomes in figure out the average market ranking and each individual ranking of how well the application discovers and protects against risks.

Performance Tests
In accessory for protection, AV-Test looks at the efficiency of a pc with a PC protection program installed and operating. Like the protection ranking, the efficiency ranking is determined by launching, using, downloading, installing, and copying information and applications during the malware check out and seeing if the antivirus application disrupts the pc by creating significant lag time or showing pop-ups from this method during use. The evaluators use and access the same applications, information and systems many periods throughout the examining interval to get the efficiency ranking.

Usability Tests
The final analyze is for functionality. AV-Test, partially, looks at the false recognition rate, meaning how often the application prevents genuine applications and systems mistaken as risks. AV-Test uses over 1 million samples in this analyze to ensure the top-scoring alternatives only attack true risks while leaving your information and applications still operating and accessible.

At Top Ten Reviews, we used the most recent AV-Test outcomes in help us figure out and position the best antivirus application available. These assessments were conducted during March and April 2016 on computers operating Ms windows 10 operating-system. Bitdefender is the only program we reviewed that earned an ideal ranking in all three analyze places. Most of the others, while they didn't ranking completely across the board, did ranking more than the market standard in these places. We gave more weight to those that scored completely in protection, since this is the main objective of these applications.
Detection & Removal Tools

In accessory for the essential analyze outcomes, we looked at the types of risks each antivirus solution finds, where this method finds risks, the resources available to help you remove and restore from these risks, and whether the application offers protection to your cellular mobile phones, such as cellular mobile phones, moreover to your PC.

We learned that several antivirus protection alternatives have cellular protection available for gadgets such as cellular mobile phones, but it is usually portion of a larger online protection software suite or offered as an add-on for an expense. Panda Anti-virus Plus is one program that extends its malware protection to your cellular mobile phones without the expense of an add-on or the purchase of a more innovative or higher-priced program.

Most PC protection application, moreover to scanning your personal computer regularly, instantly scans your emails and USB ports for any risks and, if it finds one, damages it before it has a opportunity to move into your personal computer. Avira has both of these capabilities and excellent scores in the AV-Test evaluations for correctly determining between genuine risks and nonthreatening applications.

Another essential function of a good antivirus program is the availability of a save CD. This disk or download reboots your personal computer in the event it crashes as a result of an infection. While good antivirus protection should block online risks before they can affect your program, new and emerging risks sometimes get through before malware protection applications have a opportunity to recognize them. Bootable save CDs are essential because they allow you to get better and continue your protection from your antivirus service. F-Secure and ESET are among the majority of alternatives that have this function available.
Free vs. Compensated Anti-virus Software

As you search for the best antivirus application, you're going to run into 100 % free application application that claims it is as able as paid applications. If you were to position antivirus application categories into three different levels, you'd discover 100 % free application application in the bottom tier, with the least functionality and protection. Although 100 % free application application can be enticing, 100 % free antivirus protection is not as able as paid application. All 100 % free applications can check out for viruses, but only some of them check out for malware instantly and provide real-time protection or web browser add-ons to help you avoid bad links. Most innovative functions are limited to paid antivirus applications.

One annoyance of 100 % free antivirus application is that each program displays ads for the complete, paid edition of the product. This doesn't detract from possible version's efficiency or capability, but it can be distracting and frustrating. Some applications even immediately launch your internet web browser and link to their company's website if you click on an element that isn't available in possible edition, which may be a minor distraction but is frustrating nonetheless.

Perhaps the most important frustration with even the best 100 % free antivirus applications is the general lack of assistance available from the developers. Compensated applications usually provide extensive tech assistance team, allowing you to contact the manufacturer via email, phone and live chat. Free applications usually leave you fending for yourself with user manuals or a knowledgebase in which you have to comb through information before you will discover helpful material specific to you.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies  

 
Choosing the Best Anti-virus for Your PC

Antivirus alternatives come with options ranging from basic protection to full-fledged online protection software packages that include additional protection measures such as parental controls, password managers and online filters. One of the factors that makes the most important difference, though, is the os on your personal computer and how well the antivirus program works with it. AV-Test assessments antivirus application on currently supported Ms windows and Mac operating-system. Sometimes a new edition of this method is available to be evaluated on a used os, though usually the mature versions of protection application are more compatible and effective with mature operating-system. Here is a quick rundown of the most commonly used operating-system and what we found while reviewing antivirus applications.

Read our Editors' review on Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies 

how to prevent online offline identity theft

Identity theft is a very scary thing and identity theft prevention is you're the only protection. If you're wondering what can I do, you'll find several different ways that you can prevent and protect yourself from identity theft and fraud. By creating a few proactive identity theft habits you will be able to protect yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft.

How to Be Secured Online Here: CyberSecurity and CyberSafety Guide

Everyone should be thinking about how they can prevent identity theft. There are various habits that can help you be proactive so you can help in the prevention of identity theft from occurring to you. It can be extremely frustrating and scary to have your identity stolen, but it can happen to almost anyone. There are many people that think identity theft is a result of the Internet; however, it has been around even before the Internet was in existence.

How to Be Secured Online Here: CyberSecurity and CyberSafety Guide

Many people who never use the internet for purchases suddenly find that they have become a victim of identity theft. The only defense that you have to combat this type of identity fraud is identity theft prevention. It is imperative that you try to prevent identity theft because you may not even find out that you have become a victim until months after the crime has happened. Identity thieves can open credit cards in your name, wrack up big bills, and they may even sell off your personal information as well. Once you become a identity theft victim it can take a great deal of time to repair your credit, and there is a big chance that the problem will follow you for years to come.

Tips and Ideas for Identity Theft Prevention

There are a variety of ways that you can prevent identity theft. If you feel this is a task you cannot undertake yourself you may want to hire a monitoring service to help you. Many of these services even have special services that can help you take the right actions if identity theft does occur and they can also help you begin repairing your credit as well. Having a service like this may help you find out about identity theft before it gets to bad. There are also a variety of things that you can do on your own to help prevent identity theft as well.

One important thing you should do is to copy everything that you have in your wallet. This will enable you to give authorities a quick report of what was in your wallet if it is stolen. Carrying your social security card or number in your wallet is something you want to avoid as well. The best way that you can get identity theft protection is to hire a company that will help you prevent fraud and protect your information. You can find some of these services for as low as $100 a year, and they can provide you with a safe and secure feeling.

Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

Tip 1 - Keep personal information secure and avoid giving it out.

Tip 2 - Keep you name off the marketing lists of the various credit bureaus.

Tip 3- Check your mail often and never let it sit around in your box or it may be stolen.

Tip 4 - Do not throw away your credit card receipts in a public trashcan.

Tip 5 - Make sure you check your credit report periodically.

Tip 6 - Buy encryption software to protect your emails.

Tip 7 - Review credit card bills and look for any charges you do not remember.

Tip 8- Shred paperwork that may contain your personal information.

It is important that you understand that identity theft can occur in various ways, and understanding these ways can help you be more aware of how important it is to protect your identity. If a thief is able to get a hold of your personal information, within a few hours they can rack up big bills on your credit cards and even take all the money out of your bank accounts. They may also be able to use your personal information to open up new credit accounts as well. Cell phones may also be purchased under your name and big bills racked up quickly in your name. They may also be able to have utilities set up under your name and even an apartment.

Checking and money market accounts could be set up in your name and then the thief could start to write bad checks as well. Worst of all, if you do not work at preventing identity theft, a thief can actually change the billing address on your accounts, and you may never realize that this is occurring before it is too late. If you are going to prevent identity theft, you need to be sure that you take proactive measure to protect your personal information. Criminals involved in identity theft are working all the time, so protect yourself and use identity theft protection to avoid being the next victim.

Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to IdentityTheftFraudProtection.com an informational website created to help and educate you on how you can protect yourself and prevent identity theft from happening and you becoming a victim.

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