Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Hackers, and Spies
Today
we use our computers to do so many things. We go online to search for
information, shop, bank, do homework, play games, and stay in touch with
family and friends. As a result, our computers contain a wealth of
personal information about us. This may include banking and other
financial records, and medical information - information that we want to
protect. If your computer is not protected, identity thieves and other
fraudsters may be able to get access and steal your personal
information. Spammers could use your computer as a "zombie drone" to
send spam that looks like it came from you. Malicious viruses or spyware
could be deposited on your computer, slowing it down or destroying
files.
By using safety measures and good practices to protect your home computer, you can protect your privacy and your family. The following tips are offered to help you lower your risk while you're online.
Install a firewall
A firewall is a software program or piece of hardware that blocks hackers from entering and using your computer. Hackers search the Internet the way some telemarketers automatically dial random phone numbers. They send out pings (calls) to thousands of computers and wait for responses. Firewalls prevent your computer from responding to these random calls. A firewall blocks communications to and from sources you don't permit. This is especially important if you have a high-speed Internet connection, like DSL or cable.
Some operating systems have built-in firewalls that may be shipped in the "off" mode. Be sure to turn your firewall on. To be effective, your firewall must be set up properly and updated regularly. Check your online "Help" feature for specific instructions.
Use anti-virus software
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy your data, slow down or crash your computer, or allow spammers to send email through your account. Anti-virus protection scans your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them. You must keep your anti-virus software updated to cope with the latest "bugs" circulating the Internet. Most anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are online. In addition, make sure that the software is continually running and checking your system for viruses, especially if you are downloading files from the Web or checking your email. Set your anti-virus software to check for viruses when you first turn on your computer. You should also give your system a thorough scan at least twice a month.
Use anti-spyware software
Spyware is software installed without your knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect personal information while you surf the Web. Some kinds of spyware, called keyloggers, record everything you key in - including your passwords and financial information. Signs that your computer may be infected with spyware include a sudden flurry of pop-up ads, being taken to Web sites you don't want to go to, and generally slowed performance.
Spyware protection is included in some anti-virus software programs. Check your anti-virus software documentation for instructions on how to activate the spyware protection features. You can buy separate anti-spyware software programs. Keep your anti-spyware software updated and run it regularly.
To avoid spyware in the first place, download software only from sites you know and trust. Piggybacking spyware can be an unseen cost of many "free" programs. Don't click on links in pop-up windows or in spam email.
Manage your system and browser to protect your privacy
Hackers are constantly trying to find flaws or holes in operating systems and browsers. To protect your computer and the information on it, put the security settings in your system and browser at medium or higher. Check the "Tool" or "Options" menus for how to do this. Update your system and browser regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it's available. Windows Update is a service offered by Microsoft. It will download and install software updates to the Microsoft Windows Operating System, Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, and will also deliver security updates to you. Patching can also be run automatically for other systems, such as Macintosh Operating System.
Use a strong password - and keep it to yourself
Protect your computer from intruders by choosing passwords that are hard to guess. Use strong passwords with at least eight characters, a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Don't use a word that can easily be found in a dictionary. Some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Try using a phrase to help you remember your password, using the first letter of each word in the phrase. For example, HmWc@w2 - How much wood could a woodchuck chuck. Protect your password the same way you would the key to your home. After all, it is a "key" to your personal information.
Secure your wireless network
If you use a wireless network in your home, be sure to take precautions to secure it against hackers. Encrypting wireless communications is the first step. Choose a wireless router with an encryption feature and turn it on. WPA encryption is considered stronger than WEP.1 Your computer, router, and other equipment must use the same encryption. If your router enables identifier broadcasting, disable it. Note the SSID name so you can connect your computers to the network manually.2 Hackers know the pre-set passwords of this kind of equipment. Be sure to change the default identifier on your router and the pre-set administrative password. Turn off your wireless network when you're not using it.
Remember that public "hot spots" may not be secure. It's safest to avoid accessing or sending sensitive personal information over a public wireless network. You may also consider buying a mobile broadband card that will allow you to connect to the Internet without relying on Wi-Fi hot spots. A mobile broadband card is a device that plugs into your computer, laptop, PDA, or cell phone and uses a cell phone signal to provide high-speed Internet access. They are sold by cell phone companies and require a monthly service plan.
Be careful if you share files
Many consumers enjoy sharing digital files, such as music, movies, photos, and software. File-sharing software that connects your computer to a network of computers is often available for free. File-sharing can pose several risks. When connected to a file-sharing network, you may allow others to copy files you didn't intend to share. You might download a virus or bit of spyware that makes your computer vulnerable to hackers. You might also break the law by downloading material that is copyright protected.
By using safety measures and good practices to protect your home computer, you can protect your privacy and your family. The following tips are offered to help you lower your risk while you're online.
Install a firewall
A firewall is a software program or piece of hardware that blocks hackers from entering and using your computer. Hackers search the Internet the way some telemarketers automatically dial random phone numbers. They send out pings (calls) to thousands of computers and wait for responses. Firewalls prevent your computer from responding to these random calls. A firewall blocks communications to and from sources you don't permit. This is especially important if you have a high-speed Internet connection, like DSL or cable.
Some operating systems have built-in firewalls that may be shipped in the "off" mode. Be sure to turn your firewall on. To be effective, your firewall must be set up properly and updated regularly. Check your online "Help" feature for specific instructions.
Use anti-virus software
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy your data, slow down or crash your computer, or allow spammers to send email through your account. Anti-virus protection scans your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them. You must keep your anti-virus software updated to cope with the latest "bugs" circulating the Internet. Most anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are online. In addition, make sure that the software is continually running and checking your system for viruses, especially if you are downloading files from the Web or checking your email. Set your anti-virus software to check for viruses when you first turn on your computer. You should also give your system a thorough scan at least twice a month.
Use anti-spyware software
Spyware is software installed without your knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect personal information while you surf the Web. Some kinds of spyware, called keyloggers, record everything you key in - including your passwords and financial information. Signs that your computer may be infected with spyware include a sudden flurry of pop-up ads, being taken to Web sites you don't want to go to, and generally slowed performance.
Spyware protection is included in some anti-virus software programs. Check your anti-virus software documentation for instructions on how to activate the spyware protection features. You can buy separate anti-spyware software programs. Keep your anti-spyware software updated and run it regularly.
To avoid spyware in the first place, download software only from sites you know and trust. Piggybacking spyware can be an unseen cost of many "free" programs. Don't click on links in pop-up windows or in spam email.
Manage your system and browser to protect your privacy
Hackers are constantly trying to find flaws or holes in operating systems and browsers. To protect your computer and the information on it, put the security settings in your system and browser at medium or higher. Check the "Tool" or "Options" menus for how to do this. Update your system and browser regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it's available. Windows Update is a service offered by Microsoft. It will download and install software updates to the Microsoft Windows Operating System, Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, and will also deliver security updates to you. Patching can also be run automatically for other systems, such as Macintosh Operating System.
Use a strong password - and keep it to yourself
Protect your computer from intruders by choosing passwords that are hard to guess. Use strong passwords with at least eight characters, a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Don't use a word that can easily be found in a dictionary. Some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Try using a phrase to help you remember your password, using the first letter of each word in the phrase. For example, HmWc@w2 - How much wood could a woodchuck chuck. Protect your password the same way you would the key to your home. After all, it is a "key" to your personal information.
Secure your wireless network
If you use a wireless network in your home, be sure to take precautions to secure it against hackers. Encrypting wireless communications is the first step. Choose a wireless router with an encryption feature and turn it on. WPA encryption is considered stronger than WEP.1 Your computer, router, and other equipment must use the same encryption. If your router enables identifier broadcasting, disable it. Note the SSID name so you can connect your computers to the network manually.2 Hackers know the pre-set passwords of this kind of equipment. Be sure to change the default identifier on your router and the pre-set administrative password. Turn off your wireless network when you're not using it.
Remember that public "hot spots" may not be secure. It's safest to avoid accessing or sending sensitive personal information over a public wireless network. You may also consider buying a mobile broadband card that will allow you to connect to the Internet without relying on Wi-Fi hot spots. A mobile broadband card is a device that plugs into your computer, laptop, PDA, or cell phone and uses a cell phone signal to provide high-speed Internet access. They are sold by cell phone companies and require a monthly service plan.
Be careful if you share files
Many consumers enjoy sharing digital files, such as music, movies, photos, and software. File-sharing software that connects your computer to a network of computers is often available for free. File-sharing can pose several risks. When connected to a file-sharing network, you may allow others to copy files you didn't intend to share. You might download a virus or bit of spyware that makes your computer vulnerable to hackers. You might also break the law by downloading material that is copyright protected.
When shopping online, check out
the Web site before entering your credit card number or other personal
information. Read the privacy policy and look for opportunities to opt
out of information sharing. (If there is no privacy policy posted,
beware! Shop elsewhere.) Learn how to tell when a Web site is secure.
Look for "https" in the address bar or an unbroken padlock icon at the
bottom of the browser window. These are signs that your information will
be encrypted or scrambled, protecting it from hackers as it moves
across the Internet.
Parents, take control
Don't let your children risk your family's privacy. Make sure they know how to use the Internet safely. For younger children, install parental control software that limits the Web sites kids can visit. But remember - no software can substitute for parental supervision.
Parents, take control
Don't let your children risk your family's privacy. Make sure they know how to use the Internet safely. For younger children, install parental control software that limits the Web sites kids can visit. But remember - no software can substitute for parental supervision.
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