The following tips are offered to help secure
computer files:
computer files:
·
Be
careful if you share files: File-sharing can pose several risks. When connected
to a file-sharing network, you may allow others to copy files you didn’t intend
to share. You might download a virus or bit of spyware that makes your computer
vulnerable to hackers.
Be
careful if you share files: File-sharing can pose several risks. When connected
to a file-sharing network, you may allow others to copy files you didn’t intend
to share. You might download a virus or bit of spyware that makes your computer
vulnerable to hackers.
·
Parental
Control: Don’t let your children risk your family’s privacy.
Make sure they know how to use the Internet safely. For younger children,
install parental control software that limits the Web sites kids can visit. But
remember – no software can substitute for parental supervision.
Parental
Control: Don’t let your children risk your family’s privacy.
Make sure they know how to use the Internet safely. For younger children,
install parental control software that limits the Web sites kids can visit. But
remember – no software can substitute for parental supervision.
·
Install
a firewall: A firewall is a software program or piece of
hardware that blocks hackers from entering and using your computer. A firewall
blocks communications to and from sources you don’t permit.
Install
a firewall: A firewall is a software program or piece of
hardware that blocks hackers from entering and using your computer. A firewall
blocks communications to and from sources you don’t permit.
·
Use
Anti-virus Software: Anti-virus software protects your computer from
viruses that can destroy your data, slow down or crash your computer, or allow
spammers to send email through your account. Anti-virus protection scans your
computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them. In
addition, make sure that the software is continually running and checking your
system for viruses, especially if you are downloading files from the Web or
checking your email.
Use
Anti-virus Software: Anti-virus software protects your computer from
viruses that can destroy your data, slow down or crash your computer, or allow
spammers to send email through your account. Anti-virus protection scans your
computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them. In
addition, make sure that the software is continually running and checking your
system for viruses, especially if you are downloading files from the Web or
checking your email.
·
Use
Anti-Spyware Software: Spyware is software installed without your
knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect
personal information while you surf the Web. Spyware protection is included in
some anti-virus software programs. Check your anti-virus software documentation
for instructions on how to activate the spyware protection features. You can
buy separate anti-spyware software programs. Keep your anti-spyware software
updated and run it regularly.
Use
Anti-Spyware Software: Spyware is software installed without your
knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect
personal information while you surf the Web. Spyware protection is included in
some anti-virus software programs. Check your anti-virus software documentation
for instructions on how to activate the spyware protection features. You can
buy separate anti-spyware software programs. Keep your anti-spyware software
updated and run it regularly.
·
Manage
your system and browser to protect your privacy: To
protect your computer and the information on it, put the security settings in
your system and browser at medium or higher. Update your system and browser
regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it’s available.
Manage
your system and browser to protect your privacy: To
protect your computer and the information on it, put the security settings in
your system and browser at medium or higher. Update your system and browser
regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it’s available.
·
Use
a strong password – and keep it to yourself: Protect your computer
from intruders by choosing passwords that are hard to guess. Use strong
passwords with at least eight characters, a combination of letters, numbers and
special characters. Don’t use a word that can easily be found in a dictionary.
Some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary.
Use
a strong password – and keep it to yourself: Protect your computer
from intruders by choosing passwords that are hard to guess. Use strong
passwords with at least eight characters, a combination of letters, numbers and
special characters. Don’t use a word that can easily be found in a dictionary.
Some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary.
·
Secure
your wireless network: If you use a wireless, be sure to take precautions
to secure it against hackers. Encrypting wireless communications is the first
step. Choose a wireless router with an encryption feature and turn it on.
Secure
your wireless network: If you use a wireless, be sure to take precautions
to secure it against hackers. Encrypting wireless communications is the first
step. Choose a wireless router with an encryption feature and turn it on.
