Here are a few ways you can keep your computer—and the personal information stored there—safe and secure.
Use strong passwords. The passwords you use should be long and complex. They should avoid words found in dictionaries and include numbers, capital and lowercase letters.
Use an anti-virus program. Anti-virus programs scan the files in your computer, email, and discs to ensure they are clean and virus-free. The programs can also remove a virus and protect your computer from extensive damage.
Be cautious about downloads. Never download anything sent as an email attachment from someone you don't know.
Update your applications regularly. If you get behind on your updates, you leave your computer open to attack. Download updates for your operating system and other programs regularly.
Use a firewall. Firewall programs are designed to block programs from entering your computer without your knowledge.
Never give out personal information in an email. Scammers send emails designed to look like official emails from a company you do business with. The emails will usually tell you that there has been a problem with your account, and they'll ask you to re-send your username and password. If there really is a problem, the company or institution should call you—and if you think the email might be real, call them to confirm.
Your computer can provide access to identity thieves, hackers, and viruses. But with the right precautions, you can keep your information safe and secure.
Chris Smith is sales and marketing director for on365 a UK based company providing a range of IT solutions including server rooms and UPS protection. For more information visit
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