Online Security for You and Your Family

We have all come to enjoy and rely upon the Internet to learn, work and play. But the same qualities that make the online world so enriching can also make us more vulnerable to criminal hackers who seek to do harm.

Just as you take precauions to keep your home safe from burglars, there are steps you can take to help protect you personal computer (PC) and yourself from cyber criminals.

Here are three steps you can take to make your computer more secure:
1. Use an Internet firewall
2. Get computer updates
3. Use up-to-date anti-virus software

Use an Internet firewall
A firewall is software that helps create a protective barrier between your computer and potentially harmful attacks. Many businesses have firewalls built into their networks, but home users should install firewall software if it was not included in the software package that came with their PC.

Even with the protection of a firewall, it's smart to back up your files on a regular basis to protect them in case your system does get damaged. Copy your important documents and files onto a floppy disk or a CD for safekeeping

Get computer updates.
No matter what software you use, you need to make sure your computer is protected by installing the latest security updates. Security updates help shield your computer from viruses, worms and other threats as they are discovered.

Check your software maker's Web site for new security updates or use the automated updating features that some companies offer.

Use anti-virus software.

Viruses, worms and other forms of malicious code pose a real threat to your computer, so you need to help defend it by using anti-virus software.

New viruses and worms are emerging all the time, so anti-virus programs need regular updates so they can recognize the new threats.

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