Intend To Stay SAFE online ? Here are few TIPS.

Oct.09, 2008 in Computer, Internet Security

There is an estimated 2,00,000 nasty programs in existence today. And the majority of them are aimed at sabotaging Windows PC`s.

Such programs can reach the machine through e-mail, instant messenger, internet connection or the web browser if the user visits an incorrect website. Windows users feel under attack as the threats are abundant and emerge very fast.

Users need to take some simple steps to avoid the problem as day-by-day attacks on the users are becoming more and more sophisticated.

Companies such as Trend Micro, Kaspersky and Microsoft offer free computer scanning free computer scanning services for the users who want to scan their machines via web.

Organisations such as the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) which provides assistance on Setting up a safe net connection.

Here are some basic steps which will help the users stay safe online.

ANTIVIRUS

Every PC must have an Anti-Virus software it is the first thing that any user should have on their computer system. It must be updated on a regular basis.

Good anti-virus use programs use heuristic techniques to spot viruses which have not been identified but have all the signs of a virus.

Nowadays many personal computers come with anti-virus already installed but may be user needs to buy an annual package. It is always better to get annual subscription than letting your bank account details being hacked and emptied.

FIREWALL

A firewall too is one of the most important security software for PC users. New versions of Windows XP have an in-built firewall. Though I feel that its features are limited but enough protected.

Comodo and Zone Alarm firms have free firewalls available.

Using a Hub or a Router can be useful to connect to the web. It can block some of the lower intensity attacks.

SPYWARE

A simple browsing of web too can expose you to all kind of danger.

An Anti-Spyware software will help clean up your PC incase you get hit. There are add-ons available for the browsers which can warn you of potentially harmful sites. McAfee`s Site Advisor is among them. Google too warns about a potentially unsafe web-site.

Security experts recommend the use of web browsers such as Mozilla Firefox or Opera instead of the traditional ones.

UPDATE

With Windows user, one needs to keep the updating the software.

Never open an attachment in a mail that you haven’t expected.

Never reply to spam mails. Stay extra careful about a mail that asks your financial details no matter if it confirms your address. Learn to spot phishing e-mails.

SUMMARY

Use anti-spyware and anti-virus programs.

Anti-virus and spyware programs should be updated atleast one a week.

Install a firewall and don’t forget to check it is switched On.

Updates to the operating system should be assured to have Installed.

Monitoring of your system is very essential.

Family members who use the web should be educated about the threats.