-
Set up user accounts
without
administrative privileges!
-
Install and keep updated an
antivirus
program.
-
Install and use a good
anti-Spyware program.
-
Install critical
Windows updates within
two weeks of release.
-
Install a
firewall router if you have
broadband Internet service.
-
Set up
wireless security on the router
(if applicable.)
-
Install a
software firewall if you have
the understanding to use it.
-
Don't use free software, music, or
pictures (unless you're sure they are safe.)
-
Change
security settings for Internet
Explorer.
-
Check what programs are running and
stop
suspicious activity.
-
Install only software and hardware from
reliable sources.
-
Set up
secure passwords for each user.
-
Backup data regularly and store securely off site.
-
Password email, money and other sensitive
information.
-
Remove
suspicious and unnecessary
programs.
-
Do not open
email attachments.
-
Do not click on
email links.
-
Do not answer emails
requesting personal
information.
-
Password
financial programs.
-
Password the bios on your computer.
-
Set your screen to require a password
when the screensaver appears.
-
Activate the
Guest account for
Internet surfing and guest use.
-
Lock the computer when you leave it
unattended.
-
Make the hard drive the first boot
device.
-
Store
recovery programs in a
safe place.
-
Encrypt sensitive data. Make an encrypted
disk.
-
Install tracing software on your laptop.
-
The best security is to unplug the
computer from the network!
