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These tips are geared towards Windows however they are just as relevant for Linux and Mac OS users too.

1/ Update your anti-virus software once a week and run a complete test.

Anti-virus software that doesn't have the patches for the latest virus's is almost as vulnerable as not having any anti-virus software on your computer at all. Regardless of whether you’re running a free version or a subscription-based antivirus solution,  make sure you renew your subscription as soon as it runs out. If you do not have anti-virus software, we recommend Avast! Professional which can be purchased here. Alternatively,  you can get a completely free “Home” version from Avast! here. We recommend running a complete virus test on your computer once a week immediately after updating your anti-virus software.

2/ Install a firewall.

Firewalls stop unauthorized programs from using your computer over the internet. If your computer is on the internet it is vulnerable. There are basically 2 types of firewalls: hardware and software. If you have an internet router, this serves as a hardware firewall, which when used on its own or coupled with Microsoft’s built-in firewall, or another software package such as ZoneALARM, you’re essentially blocking the ports that hackers, some viruses and spyware use to enter your computer.

3/ Update your operating system with the latest patches every week!

New security flaws are discovered in operating systems all the time. Your computer is vulnerable to these flaws if you do not install the free fixes that are available. Windows can be updated at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, or by clicking “Start”, Choosing “All Programs”, and selecting “Windows Updates” in Windows XP.

4/ Limit your use of Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer has more security vulnerabilities than any other web browser.

Try the free Firefox browser from http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/, it comes with all the features of Internet Explorer, and is much safer to use!

5/ Be very careful where you give out personal information.

Never enter unsolicited personal information on a website that is not secure and doesn't begin with “https” in the address bar. Do not respond to emails asking for personal information when you have not contacted them first. Some emails can contain links to websites that look like the real company’s website, but in fact are just used to collect your information for hackers. If in doubt, phone the company with the information.

6/ Be very careful opening email attachments

Email attachments can contain virus's. Scan attachments with your anti-virus software before opening them and only open attachments that you are expecting to receive.

7/ Ignore "virus warning" emails & Surprise Pop-Ups

"Virus warning" emails can be hoaxes that make you damage your own computer. Rely on up-to-date anti-virus software to protect you. The only exception to this rule is if you work for a company with an IS&T department and they send you the message at work.

8/ Use anti-spyware software

Spyware is software that gathers personal information about you from your computer, changes your internet homepage without your permission and installs software you have not asked for. Spyware can be accidentally installed with other software or without your permission from unscrupulous websites. SuperAntiSpyware, which comes in free and paid versions, works in the same way as anti-virus software but for spyware/adware/malware.  

Update and run a complete test every week at the same time as your anti-virus software.

9/ Do not forward emails that claim something will happen if you send it to a certain number of people

These emails can be a way of getting you to pass on a virus. Not only that, but it’s simply bad email etiquette. Email messages cannot count how many people you have sent them to and they will not do whatever they say they will do if you forward it to a certain number of people.

10/ Backup up important files

Backing up files such as documents, spreadsheets and photo's that you would not want to lose will not prevent anything horrible happening, however, if something does happen it changes the event from being devastating to just an inconvenience. Back up all your data regularly to a separate drive or removable media. It’s fast and easy to do, and can save you from a huge loss.

Conclusion

Following these tips will greatly reduce your chances of being affected by a computer security issue. If you’re infected and can’t fix it, bring it to PlanetCPU for fast, reliable servicing. We will help you armor yourself against the evil wrongdoers of the internet, and ensure that your computer experience is fun and safe.