Internet Safety Tips

Here are a few things I have learned over the years that will help keep your computer safe.

1.Never open an e-mail from someone you do not know. Especially never open an e-mail with an attachment it you do not know the person that sent it. The attachment could be a virus. If someone you know sends you an e-mail with an attachment that looks suspicious, e-mail them to find out if they have sent you anything. If not, delete it! Better safe that sorry!

2.The more you put your e-mail address out there the more likely you are to receive viruses and spam. So, sign up for a web-based e-mail account to use instead of a your POP e-mail account. Use this address for your web-related activites; such as, newletters you join, signing guestbooks, sending e-cards, etc. That way when you start getting any unwanted mail( and you will!), it won't be downloaded on to your computer. Instead it can be safely deleted from your browser. Yahoo and Graffiti.net are two excellent hosts.

3.Never give out your full name, address, phone number or location over the internet, unless it is a reputable company and over a secure connection. This includes bank account and credit card info. And always be careful in chat rooms and on chat lists about how much info you give out. Never give more than your first name.

4. Do virus scans at least once a week. Also, be sure to keep your virus program updated. Mine is set up to automatically scan and download updates once a week. This way I don't forget! :) Girosoft has an excellent FREE virus scan program, if you can't afford to buy one.

5. Protect your computer from Spyware and adware. If you are on the internet a lot, you are bound to pick up some of these nasties. Spybot- Search and Destroy is one the best programs for removing these inturders. Also, there is an excellent online scanner here. Both are freeware!