Computer Security

Computer and Internet security has recently became a big issue among our population. With theft identity on the rise are you really safe in the virtual world? Millions of people use their computers to connect to the internet and pay their bills, do online banking and keep in touch with friends and relatives, but is this really safe? Does it make you a little worried that the only thing protecting your entire personal life from online theft is a single password? How safe is the password that you use? Is there a way for people to steal or hyjack your passwords and access your personal information?

For the most part if you follow some basic security standards you are safe to roam the interent. You can virtually pay every bill you have online with just a few clicks of the mouse. You can link your bank accounts to car loan accounts, mortgage accounts, utility companies, department and retail stores and the list continues.

Are you 100% safe from hackers and internet theft? Of course not, we are all vurnable to online and virtual attacks, but you can help increase your online security. Here is a list of checks that will increase your odds of keeping your identity and personal information safe.

1. Never open an email from someone you don't know.
2. Never install a program on your computer than you don't know EXACTLY what it is or does.
3. If you get an email from a financial institution such as banks, credit card companies, paypal, or other money transfer system that says you need to click this link to update your personal information, disreguard it. Financial institutions will never send you email asking you to do this. If you are still convinced it's from the financial institution then give them a call before you do anything!
4. Password protect your personal computer to limit access to visitors in your house. I hate to say it but don't trust anyone with your personal information, even firends.
5. Don't visit websites that you shouldn't visit. You know what I'm talking about, yes that includes PORN sites! Nothing good can come from a porn site, many of them are filled with nasty computer hyjacking software, spyware, adware and viruses. Staying away from these sites will not only protect your privacy but also keep your computer running smooth.
6. Install virus software on your computer, even if it's free virus software it's better than nothing.
7. Install a personal firewall or at least be sure to use Windows build in firewall.