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Bagshanty

This is taken from the latest edition of Counterspy news (Sells an excellent anti spyware program, and just released a virus product). Useful tips:

CounterSpy Cookbook - Solutions for the Novice

Students Guide to Safe Computing

"School days, school days, Dear NEW COMPUTER rule days."

1. First, you need to make sure your defenses are in place to avoid any infections. This means that your computer is updated with all the latest patches that you are using an Internet Firewall and very importantly your antivirus and antispyware has the latest definitions. This is imperative. Prevent malicious software intrusions with these three steps.

2. DO NOT. I REPEAT DO NOT open any files from strangers. Emailing and messaging can spread viruses and worms. No matter the lure whether it be a free video, ringtone, music or naked bodies, do not open attachments unless you know who the sender is and even then that you are expecting the file. Just because the email address looks familiar may not mean anything if it has been spoofed so know in advance that, an attachment is on its way before you open it.

3. Same thing when it comes to clicking on links in an email or a message. Know before you click. It is easy to run the cursor over the link and see if where it is going is where you want to be. Be smart look before you click. Don't support the phisherman.

4. Let's talk about passwords. Using your birthday is probably not a good idea. Be original and mix in caps, symbols, and numbers. You can look into using a password program for added security. Don't give your password to your friend, lover or anyone. Don't share your passwords. Protect your computer, your vital info and your identity. Keep your passwords to yourself.

5. If you move away from your computer, shut it down or log out. An unsecured computer is money on the table and temptation. Power it off when you aren't using it.

6. Protect your information and work - back it up! Believe it or not, this is part of security because the documents you back up may be lost tomorrow. Back up your data. Don't be a walking cliché frantic because you "lost" your term paper.

7. These are the 3 NO's to social networking - No posting of indiscreet photos, vids or audio, No location and No contact information. There are unfortunately a lot of creeps on the Internet, and it will endanger your job prospects. Simultaneously, there are also a lot of good folks. It is a tricky thing to get to know someone online. Use your smarts.

8. And when it comes to wireless networks, use only when encrypted and password-protected, it is not worth the risk.

carolgavin · Quiz Queen

Thanks for this, my son is about to get a new laptop for uni and these tips will be very useful for him. So ta muchos mwah!