From: BillK (bill@wkidston.freeserve.co.uk)
Date: Fri Sep 05 2003 - 06:56:45 MDT
http://www.nipc.gov/warnings/computertips.htm
Seven Simple Computer Security Tips
for Small Business and Home Computer Users
* Use strong passwords. Choose passwords that are difficult or
impossible to guess. Give different passwords to all accounts.
* Make regular backups of critical data. Backups must be made at
least once each day. Larger organizations should perform a full backup
weekly and incremental backups every day. At least once a month the
backup media should be verified.
* Use virus protection software.
That means three things: having it on your computer in the first place,
checking daily for new virus signature updates, and then actually
scanning all the files on your computer periodically.
Some antivirus software can be set to download updates automatically,
some require manual downloads.
http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_index.php AVG Anti-virus - Free
* Use a firewall as a gatekeeper between your computer and the
Internet. Firewalls are usually software products. They are essential
for those who keep their computers online through the popular DSL and
cable modem connections but they are also valuable for those who still
dial in.
http://www.zonelabs.com/store/content/home.jsp ZoneAlarm - Free
* Do not keep computers online when not in use. Either shut them
off or physically disconnect them from Internet connection.
* Do not open e-mail attachments from strangers, regardless of how
enticing the Subject Line or attachment may be.
Be suspicious of any unexpected e-mail attachment from someone you DO
know because it may have been sent without that person’s knowledge from
an infected machine. Emails can easily be forged. If a message from a
friend, relative or coworker includes computer files you weren't
expecting, contact them to ask whether they intended to send them.
* Be alert for scams, such as e-mail messages claiming that your
bank or an online merchant needs your password or account number.
* Regularly download security patches from your software vendors.
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com
http://office.microsoft.com
Never trust a patch that someone e-mails to you.
More advice:
CERT's tips: http://www.cert.org/tech_tips/home_networks.html
FTC advice: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/infosecurity
Microsoft tips: http://www.microsoft.com/protect
BillK
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