If you do nothing else, read this

This article contains a high level checklist of main actions that you need to take to protect your computer and key advice about protecting yourself from online criminals. It is a starting point, not a substitute for a comprehisive plan and a common sense approach. This guide summaries only the most important points.

Protect your PC

1. Upgrade your operating system

The newest version of any operating system is generally the safest.

    * Ideally you should run Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2.
    * Windows 2000 is good.
    * Windows 95, 98, ME or NT should be upgraded.

2. Get a firewall

A firewall protects you against bad hackers, some viruses and some spyware. It can also stop your computer being hijacked and used to infect other machines or send spam emails.

    * In Windows XP, switch on Windows Firewall.
    * If you use a broadband internet connection, consider getting a router that has a built-in firewall.
    * For older operating systems, get a commercial firewall from a reputable company.

3. Use anti-virus software

Anti-virus software continually scans your computer for viruses. It also checks incoming email and web sites for viruses. It is not included in your operating system so you will need to get and install a copy.

Anti-virus companies include Symantec and McAfee. Microsoft publishes a complete list of compatible software.

    * Make sure your anti-virus software is automatically updated to identify new threats as they emerge.

    * Keep your subscription current. An out-of-date virus scanner is no use at all.

    * Don’t open attachments in emails from people you don’t know.

4. Stay up-to-date

Because the bad guys discover new ways to attack computers on a regular basis you also need to update your computer’s operating system (the Windows software which makes it work). This helps stop worms attacking your computer but can also deliver other performance and security improvements.

    * Go to Microsoft's Windows Update site and install all the recommended patches.
    * In particular, install Windows XP Service Pack 2 if you don’t have it already.
    * Regularly visit www.officeupdate.com to update Microsoft Office applications.
    * Keep anti-virus software and other applications up-to-date.

5. Prevent spyware

In most cases a firewall and anti-virus software will not prevent spyware. You need additional software to keep it at bay.

    * Be careful about programs you download and install. Are you certain that they won't harbour unwanted extra programs or advertisements?
    * Don’t install software from an unknown or untrustworthy source.
    * Be careful about which websites you visit. Are they trusted? Are they reputable?
    * Get an anti-spyware program and keep it up to date. Products include: Microsoft Anti-spyware, Spyware Blaster, Spy Sweeper, Spybot Search and Destroy and AdAware.

6. Secure your wireless network

If you have a Wi-Fi (wireless) network, check the instructions that came with it and do the following:

    * Rename the network (the SSID) and switch off SSID broadcast so people can’t easily find your network.
    * Use MAC filtering to restrict access to trusted computers.
    * Switch on the built-in WPA or WEP encryption to prevent casual eavesdropping.

7. Filter out unwanted 'spam' email

There are a number of tactics which can reduce the volume of spam you receive.

    * Don’t click on anything in a spam email, even to “unsubscribe.”  If possible, don’t even open it.
    * Use a throwaway email address for trivial online registrations.
    * Consider using an email client with a built-in spam filter or buying an add-in spam filter program.
    * Don’t fall for online hoaxes, check suspicious claims on Hoaxbusters (dot) ciac (dot) org.

8. Backups

Make a regular backup of your important data, store it in a different location and check that it is actually backing up the right data by doing a trial restore from time to time.

9. Physical security

    * Security mark your computers and other valuables.
    * Keep a note of all the serial numbers.
    * Think about locks, window locks, alarms and so on to make your home safer.
    * Don’t leave discarded computer boxes outside your home – it’s an advert to burglars.
    * Use a security lock for laptops.
    * Keep laptops in a nondescript but padded bag.

Ways to protect yourself, your family and your money online

Online crime comes in many forms and the entire 'Protect yourself' section of this website covers the different threats in more detail.  However, key points are:

1. Avoid identity theft

    * Never give anyone your user ID, PIN or password, even if they appear to be a representative of a trusted firm.
    * Be particularly wary of emails that appear to come from banks, credit card or other trusted companies asking you to update your security information.
    * Always type the web address of trusted websites into the browser yourself. Don’t click on links in emails.
    * Don’t enter personal or financial information unless the web address starts with ‘https://’ and there is a small padlock in the frame of the web browser window.
    * Use strong passwords

2. Avoid fraud

    * If an email offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
    * Don’t give out personal information unless you initiated the contact and you are sure you know who you’re dealing with.
    * Be wary of anything that tries to alter your dial-up internet access.

3. Buy and sell online safely

    * If buying from an online auction, ask the seller questions, check feedback on the seller from other users and consider paying via a reputable escrow service if the value of the sale justifies it

Use a trusted means of payment that will give you some recourse in the event of fraud.