Surfing Safely
The Internet is full of hazardous material and it is up to you to protect yourself from the criminals who intend to harm you.
Keep everything updated!
Your web browser
Your antivirus software and
Your operating system
These services should all be updated regularly. If you haven.t done so already, change these programs to update automatically and keep aware of update notices.
Beware of the unknown!
People you meet
E-mails
Instant Messengers
Files and graphics received
Websites
Pop-ups
Criminals lurk around the Internet looking for people to hurt. You many meet them in a chat room, through instant messenger, or in an e-mail. Any graphics or files sent through e-mail, IM, or file sharing could be contaminated with malicious code. Do no open files from unknown sources! If someone you know sent the file, scan it before opening and ask the sender to verify they sent it to you.
Also, some websites and pop-ups download malicious code onto your computer just by opening them. Always be wary before entering a new website and run an anti-spyware program periodically to rid your computer malware.
Use Strong Passwords!
On all sign-in accounts
Most online services require you to have a login ID and password.
Hackers run programs that can break passwords within seconds. By
following our suggestions to make your password strong, you will
decrease the likeliness of a hacker breaking it.
Back it up!
Important Files
Storing copies of all your files on a removable disk is a great way to
assure you won.t lose your data if your system is compromised or
crashes.
Additional tips for web surfing safely can be found at www.staysafeonline.org
