Spam, Viruses, And Hoaxes - Oh My!
A Dose Of Common Sense Can Keep Your Computer Safe

It’s true that we live in uncertain times.  And, it has become clear that each of us must take seriously our online habits as part of an overall security strategy.

A dose of common sense can help here.  Stop and think about your online and e-mail habits.  Are you part of the problem?

Secure your system

Securing your computer system helps protect your data and hardware from harm.  But that’s not all!  As the Web site Stay Safe Online, sponsored by the National Cyber Security Alliance, reminds us, securing your computer “plays a crucial role in protecting our nation’s Internet infrastructure.”

Visit the site for tools and ideas to help begin securing your computer.  In addition, there are resources to make sure that kids have a safe online experience.  http://www.staysafeonline.info/

Put your systems to the test

Think your computer is secure?  These two sites provide security tests.  Find out if your system is up to snuff:

• Port Scan Security Check provides a free security check in order to expose common holes.  In addition, the site houses tutorials about security basics, including denial of service attacks and firewalls: http://www.sdesign.com/securitytest/
  
  
• AuditMyPC.com offers a free security audit, port scan, and firewall test.  The site's “reading room” includes links to the latest worm and virus news and overviews of computer security, port scanning, and e-mail security: http://www.auditmypc.com/

Anti-virus software keeps system from getting "sick"

If your audit suggests that you need anti-virus protection, consider these products:

http://www.mcafee.com/

• Virus scanning software and personal firewall software

http://www.symantec.com/product/

• Norton Internet Security includes virus protection, a personal firewall, and privacy options.

Spam Detection and Block keep junk out of your inbox

Your ISP provides protection against Spam!  We help keep the “junk” out of your inbox.  Call us to help you set Spam Detection and Block. 

Don't Spam friends: identify hoaxes and avoid them

Spam continues because many consumers contribute to it by forwarding e-mail hoaxes to friends and family.  The fact is many of us believe the claims of the e-mail our friends send us. 

For example, e-mail users who believe that Bill Gates will give them a check for $245—if they forward the e-mail to nine friends—flood and strain e-mail servers. 

Before you forward the next chain letter to everyone in your mailbox, ask yourself whether it’s a good idea. 

Take a common-sense approach to e-mail.