Posted by: admin | Category: Internet Tools
Most of us know that the Internet can be a valuable source of entertainment and education, but cyberspace is not without its risks. Viruses and spyware are common on the Web, both of which can lead to costly computer damage. Internet users are also vulnerable to identity theft and other cybercrimes. Anyone using the Internet should learn and implement a few basic safety tips to protect themselves and their computers.
Protect Your Computer
1. The basics of Internet safety start with protecting your computer. Viruses, worms and Trojans can wreak havoc on a computer, and in some cases the data loss and damage may be irreparable. To guard against this, install an antivirus program on your computer, and update it regularly to guard against new types of attacks. Do a full system virus scan periodically to check your computer for infection. Many antivirus programs can be easily configured to run automatic scans. You should also scan all email attachments and Web downloads with an antivirus program before opening them, even if they come from a trusted source.
Installing a firewall on your computer will also help guard against online attacks. A firewall shields computers from malicious Internet traffic and filters in relevant and safe data while blocking harmful data. Many computer operating systems now come with a built-in firewall, but firewall software programs are also available from a wide variety of software vendors. Before purchasing or downloading antivirus and firewall programs, make sure that they come from trusted sources. Read customer reviews of available products to make your decision.
Protect Yourself
2. Personal information, such as your name, address, social security number and other sensitive information, should only be given to trusted sources. Make online purchases from credible companies, and read the privacy policies of websites before agreeing to their terms of service. Using credit cards instead of debit cards is recommended, as credit cards offer more protection against theft. When submitting personal information online, make sure the site is encrypted for privacy. The URL of an encrypted site will start with “https” instead of the standard “http” and may also contain an icon that looks like a padlock in the lower portion of the screen.
Children especially should never give out their names, addresses or other personal information to anyone online, although adults would be wise to follow this advice as well. Use your first name only or a Web alias. When agreeing to a face-to-face meeting with someone you have met online, choose a public place, such as a coffee shop or restaurant. Tell a trusted friend where you are going, and have him call to check up on you. Never go alone to a home or other secluded place to meet someone whom you have only known online.
More Tips
3. If you are being harassed, threatened or “cyberbullied” online, do not respond with anger, as this will only make the situation escalate. Consider changing your email address or taking other steps to avoid contact. If you continue to be threatened, document the harassment and report it to local law enforcement authorities or the FBI. Similarly, if you are the victim of online fraud, contact the appropriate law enforcement authorities immediately.
Another important component of Internet safety is watching out for Internet addiction. Strike a healthy balance between Internet use and other activities. If you find you are sacrificing sleep, ignoring family and friends or falling behind in your job due to Web surfing, take steps to cut down on your Internet use. Do not forget to turn the computer off now and then and spend a fun day outside