Basic Steps for PC Security

Everyone who connects to the Internet potentially opens his or her computer to invasion by viruses or hackers. The best course of action (always a best practice) is to install and keep updated security programs such as anti-virus and a firewall on every system used to access the internet and online banking services.

Below are some standard best practices to prevent becoming a victim:

• Be alert to what is going on with your computer. Any unusual activity is the first sign of trouble.
• Set your Internet browser so that you are notified anytime a program attempts to download.
• Install a reputable anti-virus program. Keep this program updated daily, if possible, and you will stop the majority of viruses from being downloaded and installed on your computer.
• Pop-ups are a form of malware that can seem annoying on the surface but can also be dangerous. Installing a good pop-up blocker can stop malware from being downloaded.
• Install a personal firewall.
• Use an email client that includes a spam guard. A large number of viruses and Trojan horses are spread via emails. Stopping those emails before they enter your mailbox can help in the battle against malware.
• Don't download software or programs from unknown Web sites. These seemingly innocent programs may contain malware that will install on your computer when the original program is installed.
• Be careful when trading files or programs with friends and family. If there was malware of any sort on the original computer, it could implant itself on the disc or in a file and download to your computer. It's best to run a virus scan on all discs before installing the information from the disc onto your computer.
• Read the fine print when downloading programs. Those user licenses seem boring and repetitive at times, but there can be a wealth of information in them as well, such as giving a company permission to place malware in the form of adware or spyware on your computer.