Basic PC Security
When I first went online back in 1999, the friend who set things up for me warned me not to open attachments from people I didn't know, as they may contain a 'virus'. I can't remember how long it was until I sorted out an antivirus program, but I'm sure it wasn't straight away.
These days, however, the threat is so much bigger. Once you go online, you have to be prepared to deal with viruses (or is that virri?!), trojans, diallers, keyloggers, adware and spyware. Some are just annoying, some can start to do alot of damage.
However, with a few steps to set up some basic security, plus some 'safe surfing', using the interernet can be a fun experience again, without all the worry.
I'm not an 'expert', and this isn't the place to offer in-depth advice, or offer recommendations on specific software. However, I have tried to outline some of the basics, hopefully written in a way that's easy to understand.
Basic advice:
These days, however, the threat is so much bigger. Once you go online, you have to be prepared to deal with viruses (or is that virri?!), trojans, diallers, keyloggers, adware and spyware. Some are just annoying, some can start to do alot of damage.
However, with a few steps to set up some basic security, plus some 'safe surfing', using the interernet can be a fun experience again, without all the worry.
I'm not an 'expert', and this isn't the place to offer in-depth advice, or offer recommendations on specific software. However, I have tried to outline some of the basics, hopefully written in a way that's easy to understand.
Basic advice:
- Install an antivirus program, and keep it regularly updated.
- Install a firewall.
- Install and run at least one anti-spyware program.
- Ensure that all critical updates from Windows are installed.
- Beware of 'phishing' emails from major companies. Don't click on links in them, or give out personal information.
- Use caution when opening attachments.
- Use caution when downloading or installing from the internet, especially toolbars, screensavers, and the such.
- If you do think you have a problem, be aware that you there are programs out there that can actually make things worse.. ask for advice before trying anything.