National Get Safe Online Week is 21–25 October
Last week I was out for coff ee with a friend and our conversation turned to computers. “I’m actually a bit scared of mine,” she admitted. “I’m wary of online banking and of buying things online, and I’m terrifi ed to let my eleven-year-old use it because of all the media publicity about paedophiles.”
She’s not alone. A good many of us are
worried about online security, but there are real steps we can take to improve our safety.
Use the latest OS (Operating System) The most recent OS is generally the safest. Microsoft’s Windows 8 is their most up-to- date OS and anything earlier should really be upgraded if possible. Don’t forget that free software updates are issued all the time. Take advantage of these and update regularly.
Install security software. The main threats to your online security are hackers, viruses and spyware, (this last one is a programme that may be used to log your credit card details). Ideally you should have a fi rewall, plus antivirus and anti-spyware software as an absolute minimum. You really need all three, because individually they won’t protect you against every attack. Be sure to update them regularly and remember lots are available free!
Ditch the SPAM! As far as possible don’t open anything you think is SPAM. Use ‘disposable’ email addresses for registrations on sites with which you’re unfamiliar, and use SPAM fi lter software.
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Wi-Fi Wisdom! Wireless networks can off er an easy way for people to eavesdrop on your PC. Because they use radio waves, anyone within range can pick up the signal, making them a target for hackers who could be after your fi nancial details, as well as freeloading unauthorised users who might piggyback your signal to access your broadband connection. Use an up-to-date router. Make sure you rename your network to make it more diffi cult to fi nd, create a unique password and always turn on the encryption.
Backup! Backup! Backup! Just in case. Back all your data up regularly, and from time to time check the backups.
Don’t Forget... Never give out User IDs, Pins or Passwords. No legitimate corporation will EVER ask for them. Never give out fi nancial or personal information unless you initiated the contact, and you are sure about who you’re dealing with. For children and teens. Use an appropriate browser and buy or download software which monitors their online activity, limits the amount of time they can spend online, and blocks their ability to send out personal information. Most importantly SUPERVISE THEM!
Visit
www.getsafeonline.org.uk for more information about National Get Safe Online week.
To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com
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