Then, you are courting disaster. I have heard a lot of horror stories about attacks done to computers of unsuspecting users. The attackers nowadays are very sophisticated. They have many disguises. Being complacent is not a choice for us end-users. This week let’s try to review the preventive measures that we may have overlooked. These measures are not full-proof but good enough deterrence than not having any at all.

Loading anti-virus software (e.g. Norton, AVG, PC-cillin, NOD32, etc.) is a must to every PC user. The analogy is without it you’re like going to war unarmed. Every day many computer viruses keep on emerging and there is a strong possibility that the anti-virus program cannot keep up with it. This is the reason why the anti-virus program has to be updated regularly in order to meet the challenges of the new viruses and maintain the integrity of your PC.

The safest way to do is to delete email or attachments that are suspicious. Be wary of the files with an "exe" extension even if you know the person or institution that sent them to you. The viruses are like chameleons and can deceive even the best of us. They can masquerade as birthday cards, free software upgrade, raffle tickets, lottery, etc.

Keep your password to yourself. Do not give it away or make the mistake of writing it down on a piece of paper tucked to your computer unless you want people to have access to your files and personal information. Ideally, password/s should have at least eight characters composed of a mixture of lower case letters, uppercase letters, symbols and numbers. Make the password difficult to guess to ensure your protection.

To avoid internet intruders, equip your computer with a firewall. A firewall can either be hardware or software. For end-users, a software firewall is advised because it is easier to configure and less costly. According to wikipedia, "A firewall’s function within a network is similar to firewalls in building construction, because in both cases they are intended to isolate one "network" or "compartment" from another. However, network firewalls, unlike physical firewalls, are designed to allow some traffic to flow."

The following are the advantages of having a firewall installed:

· It filters out unauthorized and potentially dangerous types of data from the internet while allowing "good" data to acess your computer.

· Deters unauthorized users like hackers access to your computer while you’re connected to the internet.

· Prevents thieves from using your private information like your phone number and credit card numbers that maybe stored in the computer.

Patches are considered quick fixes that should be installed to correct the vulnerabilities of the software like the operating system. If the bugs are not fixed it poses a security threat to your computer making it prone to attacks by criminal hackers.The patch is provided for free by the software manufacturer. Just check their website for updates.

If you value your files make sure to make a back-up copy. It is better to be prepared than to lose it totally. Today, there are many handy storage media available to store your files like CD’s and DVD’s

When there is no need for you to go online, make sure that you are not connected to the internet. This lessens the chance that someone will be able to access your computer Turning off the internet connection lowers the security threat that can cause damage to your computer.

Follow the rules of the cyber world. Always remenber that prevention is the best cure.

For comments and suggestions email me at techoclock@advancesolutions.net

Sources: wikipedia

www.cybersmart.org