Online security is one of the top catch phrases these days, but hardly anybody knows what it means and worse, most home computer users think security only applies to corporations and online businesses.
Most people think online security means simply protecting credit card data from fraud and theft, but it actually goes way beyond that.
The potential for mayhem and just plain disruption of people’s life doesn't just mean credit card fraud - it can mean having your identity stolen, your life disrupted and spending hours cleaning up after an online 'vandalism' attack.
Everybody must protect themselves from everyone from the teenage computer hacker to the organized crime syndicate using computer worms and keystroke logging viruses.
The great news is that a number of simple techniques should protect you against the vast majority of threats, since the evil doers will simply move on to easier pastures.
Update your anti-virus files
If don’t have anti-virus software with current virus definitions installed, it will leave the door wide open for security problems.
Install a 'Firewall'
A firewall helps prevent unauthorized access to computer by 'hackers'.
It closes off the entry points (called open 'ports') carried by virtually every computer connected to the Internet.
A common misconception is that firewalls are only for people with cable or other high-speed connections.
Even if use a dial up connection to get online, a firewall can help detect and prevent people from logging on to the computer, stealing files or even using computer to break into others!
Use secure sites
Only give sensitive data such as credit cards, social security numbers and important passwords over a secure connection.
This means the little yellow lock appears in the lower part of browser and nobody but the website are connected to should be able to read the data sent.
Change passwords often
An easy way to protect sensitive data and email is to change passwords on a monthly basis, or even more often depending on how frequently using computers away from home.
If log on to email at the library, in 'cyber cafes' or any other remote computer then the possibility exists that computer could have a key-stroking virus present. This means everything type into the computer (passwords, birthdays, social security numbers, and credit cards) could be logged and used by someone else.
Change passwords at lease once a month.
Though not fool-proof, these security tips should help reduce your vulnerability and keep everybody safer online.
How to Avoid Getting Ripped-Off Online
