Computer Security Tips

I want to talk to you about the importance of computer security. The other day my friend sent me a link on facebook about “becoming a porn star.” Apparently, someone had hacked into her facebook account and sent out the mass message to all of her friends. How embarrassing!

Although her experience was embarrassing, it could have been much worse. Someone could steal your password to your online banking or even find your social security number and steal your identity all together.

There are a few important things to keep in mind-

First, your passwords!

Don’t forget, criminals are out there, even online. Many people neglect the importance of passwords. Passwords are one of the most important internet and computer safety devises. Many of us have been using the same password for years and don’t think any of it.

If you are one of these people here are a few tips!

- Create a strong password that is long and has letters, symbols and numbers.

- Microsoft Online safety advices the use of “at least 14 characters or more” (Microsoft Safety).

- It is also important to change your password and not use the same password in different places!!!

- Keep your password a secret! For many people it is hard to remember your password, however, do NOT write your password down, especially in your computer or emails. And once again change your passwords! (Microsoft Safety).

- Finally, you can even check you password’s strength with password checker which is available on the Microsoft Safety website -- https://www.microsoft.com/protect/fraud/passwords/checker.aspx?WT.mc_id=Site_Link

Second, use a Firewall for internet security.

In essence, a firewall is “a system designed to prevent unauthorized access or from a private network” (Webopidia.com). Firewalls will defend your private information and can be implemented in both hardware and software. All messages entering or leaving the internet pass through the firewall, which examines each message and blocks those that do not meet the specific security criteria (webopedia.com).

*You can download free firewalls and other anti-virus software online.