Computing securely- a guide to better security of the computing habits

There is no such thing as a completely secure computer or IT network. The number of threats we face from pranksters, all the way to organized crime is growing all the time. In fact, the threats themselves are increasing in both seriousness and sophistication.

It’s not just a matter of viruses, Trojans or worms that come attached to an email and then infect your machine. If you are on the Internet, then you are open to attacks of many different kinds, from hackers trying to gain direct access to your computer, malicious web sites tricking you into parting with money, tricks to get personal details such as credit card information or passwords, software slipped onto you PC that will do any number of things without detection – the list is always growing computer, software and the Internet become more feature rich and complex, the number of ways in which attacks can occur also inevitable increases

As a user, we can enhance our online security. There is no fool-proof security system, but it doesn’t hurt to be a little careful while on the Internet.

Basic Guidelines

How to protect personal and work data

• Protect yourself with relevant software from viruses and trojan horses that may steal or modify data on your own computer. A trojan horse program is a software that claims to do something genuine, but does exactly the opposite. For example, a program that claims it will speed up your computer may actually be sending personal PC information to a hacker.
• Updating the latest anti-virus software and operating system patches. Updates are most important security features. Don’t turn off your eyes.
• Install a personal firewall and anti-spyware to protect your PC.
• Changing online passwords periodically.
• Online baking credit cards and bank statements for transactions are to be verified timely to be safe.

Update your browser

• Most chances that one will probably drag viruses and malwares are browsers. Browser programs are frequently updated to add functionality and address security patches and problems.
• You the latest browsers and try on more than a single browser eg, Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, Google chrome, Opera, etc

Don’t let others eat your cookies

• While you browse the Internet , information about your computer may be collected and stored fraudulently. To increase your level of security adjust your privacy and security setting to block or limit cookies in your web browser.
• Make sure that other sites are not collecting personal info about you without your knowledge.
• Delete cookies and temporary files from time to time.