Internet Safety Tips

The internet can be fun and enjoyable, but there are many problems lurking in the depths of cyberspace. Here's our top ten safety tips.

1. GET A FIREWALL

The firewall that comes standard with Microsoft Windows isn't all that great - in fact its far from great. A firewall protects your computer from unwanted incoming and outgoing traffic.

2. CHOOSE AN ALTERNATIVE BROWSER

Internet Explorer is a fine program, but it has a lot of security holes. There are some great alternative internet browser programs available.

3. KEEP YOUR OS UPDATED

Microsoft is constantly updating its Windows operating system with numerous patches and fixes. It is crucial for you to keep your computer system updated. Without the latest fixes, your computer could become vulnerable to attack. We recommend that you visit Microsoft Update for all the latest fixes.

4. DON'T SHARE INFORMATION

One of the easiest ways for someone to obtain your personal information is if you freely give him that information. There are thousands of scams out on the internet that are propagated through email or on fake websites. If something doesn't look right or seems too good to be true, then it probably isn't real at all. If you're not sure about something, take the safest course of action. One easy way to tell - if there are several misspelled words, then be especially cautious.

5. GET AN ANTI-VIRUS PROGRAM

Its hard to believe but there are still many people on the internet that don't have an anti-virus program installed on their computer. There are dozens of good programs available today. These programs need to be periodically updated just like your operating system in order to stay ahead of malicious programs. New viruses are popping up everyday and your computer needs to be ready.

6. PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST ADWARE

One of the worst things to see on your computer is a popup window. Even worse is when you see dozens of popup windows eating up your desktop in just a few seconds. This is generally some type of adware on your computer. Adware usually a small program code on your computer system that you may have unknowingly installed or was installed without your consent. You need a comprehensive program to detect, remove, and prevent adware programs from getting onto your system.

7. GET AN ANTI-SPYWARE PROGRAM

There are so many different malicious programs on the internet that the numbers are staggering. Spyware is yet another addition to that list. Spyware steals your personal information on your computer and submits it to a remote computer "somewhere" on the internet. It does all of this without you even knowing. Its important to protect your personal information, so an anti-spyware is crucial.

8. DON'T OPEN ATTACHMENTS

One of the easiest ways for a virus or some other malicious code to get onto your computer is when you open an attachment in an email. Unless you specifically requested the attachment, then be extremely cautious. Even if the email is from a friend or colleague it could still contain potentially harmful code.

9. WATCH WHAT YOUR KIDS ARE DOING

One of the simplest ways for malicious programs to get onto your computer is when they are directly downloaded by your children. Online predators are an even larger threat. You need to protect yourself and your children from various compromising situations. You should always monitor what your kids are doing online.

10. CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORT

One of the greatest threats to internet users is identity theft. The earlier you catch a problem the less damage that will be done. You can get your credit report online for free by checking out annualcreditreport.com.