Securing Computer Information
Submitted By: marc abraham in Computer Tips category
 If you bank or shop online or do your taxes through your computer or if you have some vital information stored on your computer and you use high speed internet connection then beware! Your computer can be attacked by hijackers or anyone viewing your profile.
Your computer system can be planted with cookies, spyware and Trojans, so if you want to secure any kind of information that is stored on your computer then read on…
- Use a good antivirus software and update it regularly
Secure your computer from virus, Trojans, spyware by updating your antivirus program and keeping it up to date. Once you have installed the antivirus software, set the software to automatically update once a day so that you always have the current information to protect your computer against spyware and Trojans.
- Secure your browser
When ever you use browser to view websites your computer sends your information to the website so always be careful about the type of information you include when registering software or availing online services. You should always check the browser security settings.
- Use firewall with high speed internet connection
Firewall acts as a kind of gatekeeper for your system and protects it by shutting out unauthorized users. Some of the latest computers have an inbuilt firewall software so always ask for it if you are buying a new computer.
- Do not fill in the profiles
If the new website you have registered in asks for you to fill the profile then it is better to leave it blank or give alias names instead of revealing true identity as it can be dangerous to your privacy.
- Secure your Email
You should go for encryption software if your email contains confidential information. Do not open messages or download anything from unknown senders and never follow the link provided with such messages. You can also check if your internet service provider offers filters for spam mails.
- Avoid popular passwords
Your email password should not be your birthday, anniversary, pet / children name, phone numbers or any such thing which is known to anyone close. Do not write the password and keep it near computer as it can jeopardize your safety. Keep changing your password regularly.
- When to disconnect internet
When you are not using computer then turn off the internet connection or unplug the phone cable when not required. In this switch off mode computer cannot send/ receive any information from net.
- Keeping back up of important files
Even though you are vigilant yet it is better to keep a back up copy of your important files in a removable disk.
Besides these steps there are some websites which offer guidelines and services for removal of virus but first let your system diagnose the type of virus it has encountered and act accordingly.
Always remember not to disclose your password to any body even if your service provider asks for it. If you detect any problem switch off your computer immediately so that all the files are not corrupted and best is to keep a separate copy for important files. In this way you can secure information on your computer.
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