Tips for Protecting Your Home Computer and Online Privacy

The Internet has made access to important information easier and faster than ever before.  But similar to using more traditional financial tools (ex. credit cards, checks, ATMs), using the Internet can present an element of risk that must be properly managed. While words like hacker, computer virus and worm are now common terms; they don’t need to instill fear. Securing your computer, and ultimately your personal information, can become as simple as routine maintenance.

Please consider the following tips to help protect your home computer and online privacy:

Use an Internet firewall
A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that creates a protective barrier between your computer and potentially harmful content on the Internet.  It helps guard your computer against hackers and many computer viruses and worms.  Windows XP includes an Internet connection firewall; however it must be activated.
 
Get computer updates
Security updates and patches, especially for browsers and operating systems, help shield your computer from vulnerabilities, viruses, worms, and other threats as they are discovered.   Windows XP has an automatic update feature that you can use to download the latest security updates and patches automatically on a schedule you choose.

Use up-to-date anti-virus software 
Anti-virus software helps protect your computer against most viruses, worms, trojans, and other unwanted invaders that can make your computer ‘sick’.  To help ensure your computer stays healthy, you need to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.  Make sure the software can also detect certain non-virus threats such as spyware, keystroke loggers, and other malicious software.   
 
Do not open suspicious emails or download software from unknown sources
Many viruses and worms use what is called social engineering.  That is, they attempt to trick you into becoming a participant in the process.  The latest viruses can ‘spoof’ the sending email address so that it looks like it is coming from someone other than the true sender.  It is usually best to simply delete emails from someone you don’t know.  If the email appears to be from someone you know, you should carefully review it before opening any attached files.  Consider whether the person you know would have sent you the email.  If in doubt, contact the sender before opening the attachment.