Online Security Tips

Here are 10 tips designed to keep you, your information and your identity secure:

1. Make sure your computer has anti virus software, and ALWAYS keep it up to date
2. Install a firewall for your home computer network, especially if you are an always-on connection like broadband or DSL.
3. If you use your laptop at Wi-Fi hotspots it should have its own firewall.
4. Make sure you use a Protected Access protocol if your computer uses a wireless device.
5. Don't respond to unsolicited email, Split or Spim.
6. When choosing a password, these are a few ways to slow down programs that are specially written to crack your password. Go for passwords with at least 8 characters and mix letters with non-letters.
7. Don't take ANY of your online connections for granted.
8. Don't be fooled by spoofers.
9. Before giving out your financial or account information at any Website, look for a third-party privacy seal to ensure that the transaction is secure.
10. When was the last time you backed up your files? Make sure you have a recent backup before a cyber-villian brings your system to a halt.