PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER

1. Upgrade your operating system
Always use the newest version of any operating system, it is generally the safest.
Microsoft Windows Vista is ideal but Windows XP with Service Pack 2 is good.
Windows 2000 is okay.
Windows 95, 98, ME or NT should be upgraded.

2. Get a firewall
A firewall protects you against bad hackers, some viruses and some spyware. It can also stop your computer from being hijacked and used to infect other machines or send spam email.
In Windows XP, switch on Windows Firewall.
If you use a broadband internet connection, consider getting a router that has a built-in firewall.
For older operating systems, get a commercial firewall from a reputable company.

3. Use anti-virus software
Anti-virus software continually scans your computer for viruses. It also checks incoming email and web sites for viruses. It is not included in your operating system so you will need to get and install a copy.
Anti-virus companies include Symantec and McAfee. Microsoft also publishes a complete list of compatible software.
Make sure your anti-virus software is automatically updated to identify new threats as they emerge.
Keep your subscription current. An out-of-date virus scanner is no use at all.
Do not open attachments in emails from people you do not know.

4. Stay up-to-date
Because the bad guys discover new ways to attack computers on a regular basis you also need to update your computer’s operating system. This helps stop worms attacking your computer but can also deliver other performance and security improvements.
Go to Microsoft's Windows Update site and install all the recommended patches.
Keep anti-virus software and other applications up-to-date.

5. Prevent spyware
In most cases a firewall and an anti-virus software will not prevent spyware. You need additional software to keep it at bay.
Be careful about programs you ‘download’ and install. Are you certain that they will not harbour unwanted extra programs or advertisements?
Do not install software from an unknown or untrustworthy source.
Be careful about which websites you visit. Are they trusted? Are they reputable?
Get an anti-spyware program and keep it up to date.
Some products include: Microsoft Anti-spyware, Spyware Blaster, Spy Sweeper, Spybot Search and Destroy and AdAware.

6. Secure your wireless network
If you have a Wi-Fi (wireless) network, check the instructions that came with it and do the following:
Switch on the built-in WPA or WEP encryption to prevent casual eavesdropping.
Rename the network (the SSID) and switch off SSID broadcast so people can not find your network too easily.
Use MAC filtering to restrict access to trusted computers.

7. Filter out unwanted 'spam' email
There are a number of tactics which can reduce the volume of spam you receive.
Do not click on anything in a spam email, even to “unsubscribe.” If possible, do not even open it.
Use a throwaway email address for trivial online registrations.
Consider using an email client with a built-in spam filter or buying an add-in spam filter program.
Do not fall for online hoaxes, check suspicious claims on Hoaxbusters.

8. Backups
Make a regular backup of your important data, store it in a different location and check that it is actually backing up the right data by doing a trial restore from time to time.

9. Physical security
Security mark your computers and other valuables.
Keep a note of all the serial numbers.
Think about locks, window locks, alarms and so on to make your home safer.
Do not leave discarded computer boxes outside your home – it is an advert to burglars.
Use a security lock for laptops.
Keep laptops in a nondescript but padded bag.