Computer Security Checklist:

Follow this essential plan to keep your computer and your personal data secure.
Note: If your computer is on a school or business network, your IT department should be doing this for you. You may not have administrative rights to apply some of these tips.

1.Do not open email attachments, unless the message is from someone you know AND it is an expected message. (See explanation below*)
2.Install an anti-virus program and use it. Update your virus library at least once a week, and run a full virus scan on your computer at least once a month. (Mac users: Congratulations - Macs are almost virus free. Still, running an anti-virus utility is a good idea, and will help prevent the spread of viruses to others.)
3.Install operating system and browser software updates on a regular basis. Windows users should go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com for a check-up. Depending on your operating system, you can have the critical security updates install automatically, or be informed when new updates are available. If you have Windows XP, see note below.* (Mac users: The Mac owner has far less risk from hackers & malicious code, but you still need to check for software updates. The latest Apple security update was posted 4/5/2004 -- Go to www.macupdate.com for more information. New Mac buyers now get VersionTracker security software for free. Visit www.versionchecker.com to find out what this important utility can do for you.)
4.Check the security settings on your browser. Set at least to middle, or mid-high level.
5.Do not install programs often found while browsing the Internet. (Some exceptions: browser plug-ins from known companies, or utility programs from sources you know and trust.)
6.If you are on the Internet, you have spyware on your computer -- guaranteed! Spyware is installed by many sites to gather information about you and how you use your computer. Free tools such as "Ad-aware," "SpywareBlaster" and "Spybot" will block and remove intrusive programs and data-mining cookies. Ad-aware is the easiest to run, and is the one I recommend - as a minimum.
Update: Spyware, adware, browser hijackers, and dialers are some of the fastest-growing threats on the Internet today. In addition to regularly removing these threats, I recommend installation of blocking software that will identify and block threats before they get on your computer. One free solution is "SpywareBlaster" from JavaCool. As with all scanning and blocking software, you must keep the definitions library up-to-date, and run the scanning programs on a regular basis. (See security note below.*) Another excellent blocking utility is Spybot. Though SpywareBlaster is a bit easier to use (and there is a good SpywareBlaster tutorial on the Web), Spybot is an excellent choice. For added security, install one or both of these programs in addition to Ad-aware, and again, remember to keep the definitions up-to-date.
7.Did you know that some Web sites will change your browser settings without your approval or knowledge. Programs such as "Browser Hijack Blaster" or "SpywareGuard" can prevent this... and they are free downloads. (Note that Spybot & SpywareBlaster discussed above already include this function.) Learn more about these programs and find out how to deal with those pesky pop-up ads on my "Essential Tips for New Computer Owners" page. Also, read the important "Security Tips" below to help keep your computer running like new.
8.Install a personal firewall (especially if you are always online via DSL or cable modem), then test your firewall on a regular basis. A firewall (hardware or software) will insure that your computer and your data are not visible to the outside world, and help protect you from viruses and spyware. Windows XP users have a software firewall built-in, but you do need to set it up and it's not very effective. (An improved firewall is included in the new Windows XP upgrade, "Service Pack 2.") Important: If you have a router installed as a part of your system, you probably already have a hardware firewall installed, and don't need to add software that can sometimes cause problems with your computer's operating system. If you are considering a third party software firewall, check out these top rated products by ZoneAlarm and Sygate. For a hardware firewall, consider Linksys or Netgear products. (Mac users: You are far less vulnerable, but a firewall is still a good idea. If you are using the Mac OS-10 operating system, you already have a good built-in software firewall available to you.)
9.Do you have a wireless network? If so, the signal you are transmitting does not stop at the walls of your home or business. Make sure you encrypt your wireless signal to keep your computer secure. (Mac users: Unless you live on a secluded farm, this is still important for you.)
10.An important tip regarding PERSONAL security. Never give out personal information, such as bank account numbers or your social security number. And, do your shopping with a bank credit card, not a debit card. Your personal liability on a credit card is $50 (by federal law), on a debit card it could be your entire checking account. To learn more, visit U.S. PIRG.

Following the steps above will help keep your computer secure and virus free. Is it a lot of work? Sure it is! But consider the alternative... Malicious computer viruses, loss of data, stolen data - including personal information, identity theft, even the use of your computer (without your knowledge) to send out spam and mass mail email viruses to everyone in your address book. Computer security in today's world is necessary and absolutely essential!

* SECURITY NOTES:

• Opening Email Attachments:
Don't open email attachments, even if sent by a friend.
Most worms today spread by infecting a machine and launching a mass email attack. You can stop that attack and protect your friends by not running attachments. If you get an attachment you really want to open, don't double-click it. Instead, download it (save the file to your hard drive) and then open it from within the appropriate application, such as Word for .doc files or Acrobat for .pdf files. Be especially careful not to execute .exe, .pif, or .scr files! You can also run a virus scan on files, before you open them, or set you anti-virus software to do this automatically.

• Pop-up Ads:
If you use the spyware removal tools recommended above, your computer should be relatively free from pop-up ads -- even without pop-up blocking software. However, when you do get that occasional irritating pop-up, DO NOT use the window close ("x") button as this may alert the marketeers to your computer's location. Instead, press the "Alt" and "F4" keys simultaneously to close the active window and keep your computer location hidden (or use the Windows Task Manager to close your browser). For more on pop-up ads, spyware and spam, click on the "Just Purchased a New Computer" link below.

• Upgrading Windows XP:
Of course you know you must keep your Windows operating system current, but what if you have a dial-up connection? Did you know that you can now order CDs from Microsoft that have all the updates and security patches for Windows XP. This is great if you have a slow dial-up connection, as the updates tend to be large files. Order the CD... it's free and is a nice service from Microsoft. Be sure to go online to the Windows update site after installing the CD to get the latest patches. Too bad Microsoft doesn't just design their software properly before releasing it -- without all the security holes.

Web Site Developer Tips:

Internet Search Techniques: More search tips to come soon!