1. Make sure anti-virus and anti-spyware software is installed on your computer.
2. Secure your wireless router to make sure it has adequate security. Use a minimum of WPA or WPA2 security encryption on home wireless routers.
3. Never click on a link in an email. Even when my bank sends me a message via email, I never click on the link supplied. I open my Internet browser and go to the website. Identity theft schemes have gotten so good that the emails look legitimate and that’s how you fall prey to them.
4. Avoid unnecessary downloads. Download files only from sites you know and trust and which you visit on your own accord – not through a link in an email.
5. Practice “stranger danger” on social networks. Never reveal personal information about yourself, friends or family such as mother’s maiden name as it could compromise safety or identity.
6. Use strong passwords. Did you know that the most popular password is “password”? Passwords should include a combination of letters, symbols, numbers and upper and lowercase letters. Create different passwords for each site you visit. If you must write down passwords to remember them, keep them someplace secure. Never carry them around in your wallet or purse.
Computing News