Protect Yourself
Avoiding Worms, Viruses and Hackers
By
Scott Gardiner
Blaster, SoBig, BugBear, the list goes on and on. Each and every day Anti-Virus software makers have to deal with new threats and protect the computers of people who use their software. Leading Anti-Virus solutions provider Symantec, makers of Norton Anti-Virus have large staffs dedicated to rooting out and developing fixes for these threats.
Even with companies like Symantec working to protect us, there are steps that the home and business computer user should take to protect their computers and data as well and in this article I will outline a few of them.
Purchase Anti-Virus Software
It still amazes me the number of individuals and businesses who do not have anti-virus software on their computers. This is just asking for trouble. If you do not protect yourself you are looking at possibly losing data and/or having your computer damaged. For under $100 you can put your mind at ease and keep your data safe. In my opinion Norton Anti-Virus is the top pick for anti-virus software. There is also a quality free anti-virus program available at www.grisoft.com
Update Your Virus Definitions
Some people do have the software on their computers but do not update the definitions. The virus definitions contain all the information about viruses that can attack your computer and are updated weekly, sometimes daily as new threats emerge. So even though you may have anti-virus software you may not be protected against the latest viruses if you have not updated the definitions.
Install a Firewall
This is especially important for those who use a broadband Internet provider. With this type of service, hackers can use your IP address and actually gain access to your computer. From there they can infect your machine with a virus, steal, or destroy data and get access to any personal information you store on your computer such as credit card and banking information. A firewall monitors your computer and blocks any unauthorized attempts to access your computer. Using a firewall in addition to anti-virus software is a double whammy against any harm coming to your computer. Norton Internet Security, which is available most places software is sold, combines the Norton Anti-Virus program with a firewall giving you all the protection you need. You can download a very good, free firewall at www.sygate.com.
Scott Gardiner is a computer instructor in the Toronto area who operates computer classes for adults and older-adults. He also publishes computer newsletters containing tips, tricks and lessons for beginners. You can visit his website at www.computer-eaze.com or if you need assistance with your computer, call (905) 857-3104.
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