Are You A Safe Cyber Surfer?

Cyber safety
The Internet is a useful tool for millions of peoples, but there is a danger of having the world at our fingertips, especially for children. There are some very real security issues that should concern every computer user. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your computer, your information and your peace of mind from computer creeps who try to slow down a network operation, or worse yet, steal personal information to commit a crime.

Almost any Internet activity - from banking online to surfing the Web just for fun - opens a virtual gateway to personal information on your computer, including credit-card numbers, phone numbers, addresses, and even bank balances. Thieves can use your personal information to steal your money or even your identity. Viruses that are spread through e-mail and websites are also an ongoing problem in cyberspace. Viruses can infect an unprotected computer, destroying important information and leading to costly repair bills. The fact that so many different things are available on the Internet can cause problems. Basic precautions can protect you, your children and the computer.

Strong passwords, firewalls and up-to-date anti-virus software can go a long way toward protecting computers, and personal or business information from those who would try to damage a network operation, or worse yet, steal personal information to commit a crime. There are some simple steps that can be taken to remain safe while online:

Make sure your passwords have both letters and numbers, and are at least eight characters long. Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords-and don't share your passwords online or over the phone with anyone. If possible keep separate passwords for different sites and change them frequently.

Install anti-virus software and update it regularly. The best anti-virus software products recognize old and new viruses and update automatically. If you decide to download anti-virus software from a web site, make certain the site is owned by a reliable, legitimate software company. Pirated software is no bargain.

Don't open a file attached to an e-mail unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an attachment, type a message explaining what it is. Never forward any e-mail warning about a new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread the virus.

Prevent unauthorized access to your computer through firewall software or hardware, especially if you are a high-speed user. Some recently released operating system software and hardware devices come with a built-in firewall. Firewalls that block outgoing information as well as incoming files can stop hackers from planting "spyware" programs that cause your computer to send out your personal information without your approval.

Back up your files. This is in case a virus does get into your computer. It is a guarantee that you will have your important files no matter what happens.

Never put personal information or photos on a Web site, blog, or forum. Online predators are not only patient, they also tend to "cultivate" many potential victims at once. A name here, a city or office name there-if you're not careful you may be dropping clues all over the place. And you don't know who might be picking them up.

Turn off your computer's guest account; use a password-protected account instead.

If people implement these simple procedures, monitor children's activities, it is easy for everyone to be a Safe Cyber Surfer.