1. Use anti-virus software. A virus is
software that is planted in your computer to damage files and disrupt your
system. Most viruses enter a computer hidden in a seemingly innocent program,
often as an attachment to an email. Then the software code attached to the
program produces copies of itself and inserts the copied code into other
programs. A virus can result in lost data or require costly repairs to your
system. You can avoid these risks by installing and using software that scans
your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes
them.
You can download anti-virus software from the
web sites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for anti-virus
software that recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones; that can
effectively reverse the damage; and that updates automatically.
2. Regularly update anti-virus software. To be
effective, anti-virus software must be updated routinely with antidotes to the
latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus
software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on
the Internet.
3. Don't fall for a fibbing email. Most
viruses won't damage your computer unless you open the email attachment that
includes the virus. So hackers - people who use the Internet to access computers
without permission - often lie to get you to open the attachments. The email may
appear to come from a friend or colleague, or it may have an appealing file
name, like "Fwd: FUNNY TEXT" or "As per your request!" It could appear to link
to a web site or promise to clean a virus off your computer if you open it. Don't
open an email attachment - even if it looks like it's from a friend or coworker
- unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an email
with an attached file, include a text message explaining what it is.
In addition, don't forward any email warning about a
new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus. If you receive
a chain letter or hoax virus alert, let the sender know so they can stop
spreading the virus.
4. Use strong passwords. Hackers may try to
steal your passwords to gain access to the personal information stored on your
computer. To make it tougher for them, use passwords that have at least eight
characters and include numbers or symbols. Avoid common words: Some hackers use
programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal
information, your login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as
passwords. Don't share your passwords online or over the phone.
5. Take advantage of your software's security
features. Chances are your web browser and operating system software give
you some options for increasing your online security. Check the "Tools" or
"Options" menus for built-in security features. You probably have several
choices for what types of files you want to accept from other computers. If you
don't understand your choices, check them out using your "Help"
function.
Similarly, your email software may give you the
ability to filter certain types of messages, such as some unsolicited bulk
email, or spam. But it's up to you to activate the filter.
6. Back up important files. If you follow
these tips, you'll reduce the chances of falling victim to a hacker or virus.
But no system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your
computer, copy them onto a removable disk, and store them in a safe place.
7. If your computer is infected, take action
immediately. If your computer has been hacked or infected by a virus,
disconnect from the Internet right away. Then scan your entire computer with
fully updated anti-virus software. Before you reconnect to the Internet, think about how
your computer could have been accessed and what you could have done to avoid it.
Did you open an email attachment and let loose a virus? Is your anti-virus
software out-of-date? Take steps to minimize the chances of it happening
again.
8. If you have particularly sensitive information
stored on your computer or you're planning to upgrade to high-speed Internet
access:
Install a firewall. A firewall is software or hardware
designed to block hackers from accessing your computer. A properly configured
firewall makes it tougher for hackers to locate your computer and get into
your programs and files. A firewall is different from anti-virus protection:
Anti-virus software scans your incoming communications and files for troublesome
files; a firewall helps make you invisible on the Internet and blocks all
communications from unauthorized sources.
Turn off software features that you don't use. You
may want to turn "off" some software features - instant messaging, printer-sharing
or file-sharing - that typically are "on" when a computer is shipped. Because
these programs facilitate the passing of information between computers, they
are an excellent entry point for hackers.
8. Report serious incidents. If you think
you've been hacked or infected by a virus, e-mail
a report of the incident to us, and the hacker's provider (if you can tell
what it is). Or call
tech support at 905-685-1539 (select option
3) and make an appointment to bring your computer in to Vaxxine.
For a modest fee, we will run a scan and rid your machine of all virus files.
*Some limitations may apply depending on the virus and amount
of damage.
It's not always easy to spot scams, and new ones
are invented every day. If you suspect that you may be
a target of fraud, or if you have already sent funds,
don't be embarrassed - you're not alone. If you want
to report a fraud, or if you need more information, contact
PhoneBusters:
Dialup
User Tips
