Staying Safe
Once you've installed your anti-virus, firewall and anti-spyware software, don't let yourself be lulled into a false sense of security. To begin with, software is only as good as it's updates, so don't forget this important step.
In addition, if using Windows, make sure that you install updates, especially critical ones. You can set Windlws to do this automatically, or you can visit Windows Update on a regular basis. Critical updates often include security patches, and so are important.
Be cautious when opening attachments, even if they are from someone you know. Virus's can spoof the senders email, so they may not actually be from that person. If you're not sure, it may be worth contacting the sender, and always make sure that your anti-virus is set to check all emails.
In the same way, be careful which links you click on web sites, and which programs you choose to download. Make sure it's something you really need, for a reputable site, and check for that bundled spyware!
Be especially aware of 'phising' emails and sites. These are emails that look like they come from ebay, paypal or a bank, for example, and they usually ask for your personal details. Major companies have all said that would never emails asking for personal information, and that they never request passwords, by email or by phone.
Genuine emails from ebay and paypal will have your username, and never 'Dear Paypal User', and ebay in particular send a copy of genuine emails to 'My Ebay', so check there first. With all major companies, do not follow links in the email, but go straight to your browser, and type in the URL that you regularly use. If there's any doubt, simply delete the email!
There are dangers when using the internet, and you do need to be careful. However, with a few pieces of well chosen software, and some common sense, the internet can become useful and fun again! If you have any specific questions or problems, please drop me a line.
In addition, if using Windows, make sure that you install updates, especially critical ones. You can set Windlws to do this automatically, or you can visit Windows Update on a regular basis. Critical updates often include security patches, and so are important.
Be cautious when opening attachments, even if they are from someone you know. Virus's can spoof the senders email, so they may not actually be from that person. If you're not sure, it may be worth contacting the sender, and always make sure that your anti-virus is set to check all emails.
In the same way, be careful which links you click on web sites, and which programs you choose to download. Make sure it's something you really need, for a reputable site, and check for that bundled spyware!
Be especially aware of 'phising' emails and sites. These are emails that look like they come from ebay, paypal or a bank, for example, and they usually ask for your personal details. Major companies have all said that would never emails asking for personal information, and that they never request passwords, by email or by phone.
Genuine emails from ebay and paypal will have your username, and never 'Dear Paypal User', and ebay in particular send a copy of genuine emails to 'My Ebay', so check there first. With all major companies, do not follow links in the email, but go straight to your browser, and type in the URL that you regularly use. If there's any doubt, simply delete the email!
There are dangers when using the internet, and you do need to be careful. However, with a few pieces of well chosen software, and some common sense, the internet can become useful and fun again! If you have any specific questions or problems, please drop me a line.