The Internet is a wonderful place. Anyone with an Internet connection can stay in touch with family and friends via email. Starting an Internet business is easier than ever and may even lead to the life of your dreams. And, thanks to eBay, you can also take a "virtual garage sale" without worrying about the weather or disturbing the neighbors.
But the Internet is a dangerous place to be. In fact, you are at risk right now.
Computer security is the most importantto be on the Internet. Enough to consider the following statement – surprising I know but very true.
"If you are connected to the Internet and if you do not have an anti-virus software, all security updates to your operating system and browser, as well as a firewall properly configured, you have a virus or adware on your computer RIGHT NOW!"
This is what I told my customers computer repair company recently. Some of them have heard and action. Others did not and hadlearn this important lesson the very hard.
The first question, then I'm going to give you FIVE ways to solve the problem today!
First the facts.
Fact 1. There are three types of programs that are attacking your computer now: spyware, malware and adware. All three programs that are downloaded to your computer as part of a legitimate download, and then hang around sending data as numbers of your credit card for bad writingthem.
While this article is too short to define each, all three types are a threat. For now we all say adware.
Fact 2. Over the past 12-18 months I have not seen an unprotected computer that does not have a virus or adware.
Repairs to computers on a daily basis for a life I see a lot of computers. Some units have more than 50 pieces of adware on them. Please understand, these people are like you and me, not about gamers 14 years you download anything. TheyThought they were quite attentive, and were shocked when they discovered they had a problem.
Some of these machines was also the anti-virus software, but have not been updated with the latest security patches.
Fact 3. While on-site or telephone support service used to involve bad hard drive failure, or adding new equipment, approximately 80% of all calls for service now involve the removal of viruses and adware.
Fact 4. And 'getting worse. The makers of adware and viruses are alwayssmarter, and software is becoming more difficult to remove.
Here's what you can do today to solve the problem, a problem that could not have even been aware existed, but could cost untold hours of frustration and put your financial life at risk.
Step 1. Be aware! The computer is running slower than when you purchased? Do some software programs do not work or "hang"? Your browser go to the home page of some strange? If so, chances are that you are 99.9%infected.
Step 2. Install anti-virus software that updates automatically. There are several good choices out there that fit that criteria, Norton, MacAfee, AVG, PC-cillin are the best brands. The important thing is to make sure the software is configured to update virus signatures automatically.
Step 3. Install all security patches for your operating system. Go to Microsoft site and test the computer and software. It will tell you what updates you need to installand even install them for you.
There is no cost and is extremely effective against many viruses and adware out there. Go here to check your system: http://www.microsoft.com and look on the left menu to Windows Update and click on it. Depending on the operating system you have, that will take you to update page properly. Even if you activate the automatic update feature that allows the operating system.
Step 4. Install a firewall. A firewall watches networktraffic into and out of the computer. Virus or adware that may try to infect you is examined and rejected. Windows XP has a firewall included (activated automatically update in SP2) that can help, but you can find a third-party program like zone alarm (www.zonelabs . com) to be a better choice.
Step 5. Now that you know the danger, use a generous amount of common sense in reading e-mail and surf the web. If you receive an e-mail attachment fromsomeone who does not know, do not open, never!
If you know the person sending the attachment but it looks questionable, do not open it. You may also set the email to open only in text mode, which takes place every html (which can run a program) to do evil.
Never, and I mean never, click a hyperlink in an email to fill out any financial, or password login data. No legitimate seller will ever ask you to do this under any circumstances.
When you browse the web and awindow opens and asks you to install a program, just say no. Without recognition of the company or publisher, do not. You can go to your browser security and make changes so that no external source can alter the plant or with out asking you to approve.
Keep current backups of all important data. We all know that to do this, but so few actually do. No matter the method – just do it! Disaster, critical data are safe.
Byfollowing these five tips you will have peace of mind knowing that your online experience, whether playing games or making money or something totally different, are safe and fun.
Protect your data and your peace of mind, acting on these five points today.
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