Protecting your Home Computer

Computers are a commodity used for nearly every facet of our life.  You may use them for highly-sensitive tasks like completing your taxes, monitoring you credit report, and transferring balances between your bank accounts--all in-addition to regular web surfing, email, games, instant messaging and a host of other activities.  We typically depend on our computers and the data we store.  However, it is easy to become complacent towards electronic risks.

While most intruders (also called hackers, attackers, or crackers) out there likely do not care about one individual's computers, the Internet is still a dangerous place for your computer and the data you store on it.  Many intruders actually want to control your computer to use it for attacks on other systems or to send spam.  By controlling your computer, they are able to hide their true identity as they attack other targets.  Other intruders may be looking to quickly gather social security numbers or credit card numbers for identity theft.

Other attacks use social engineering tactics.  Some websites or emails are trying to trick you into giving up your information (like your social security number, bank account number, credit card number, usernames, passwords, etc.) on your own.  They will then use this information to steal money out of your bank account or use your credit worthiness to their advantage.

Luckily, there are plenty of easy things you can do to protect your home computer and yourself in the process.

Index:

Use Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware Software

Use a Firewall

Keep your Software Up-to-Date

Use Strong Passwords

Protect your Laptop

Back up your Important Files

Protect your Personal Information

Know who you are Dealing with Online

Protect your Children Online

Effectively Erasing Data

Learn What to do if Something Goes Wrong

For even more information on home computer safety, visit: