SouthWest

Owning a computer is like owning a car where you have to do certain maintenance tasks to keep it protected and safe to use. Keeping your computer safe means you must understand and take responsibility for the maintenance and safety of your data. Remember that it is nobody's responsibility but yours to insure that you have a safe computing experience.

Listed below are some tips that you could use in order have a safe computing experience.

Regular Maintenance

• Install antivirus (AV) - keep your antivirus up to date, and run a regular scan. If you don't have an antivirus. Try a free one called AVG.
• Update antispyware - keep it up to date and scan occasionally. Install at least one antispyware apps, such as Windows Defender, Spy Sweeper, and Spybot Search & Destroy.
• Don't accept EXEs - downloading executable files (ending in .exe, .com, .bat, and .scr) will give you a risk of getting a virus so be wary of those attachments being sent to you.

Passwords and More

• Use strong passwords - a mixture of numbers and letters makes up a strong password. Also, the longer your password is, the harder it is to detect. You could also try PassPub.com which randomly generates strong passwords you can use.
• Change your passwords regularly - this is the best thing to do especially if you suspect your password has been compromised.
• Don't AutoComplete - using this feature from your browser will store your password. Not a good thing to do especially if you're using a shared or public computer. To disable this feature in Internet Explorer, go to Tools -> Internet Options, and in Content Tab, go to AutoComplete settings.

Safe Surfing

• Use other browsers besides IE - IE is most targeted by hackers so try different browsers such Firefox or Opera.
• Look for the lock - if you are going to send personal information via a Web site like shopping online, make sure that the site is encrypted. Look for the https in the URL and a lock icon in the address bar or status bar.

Physical Security

• Be prepared for theft - be sure to record the model and serial numbers of your computer in advance in case this happens. You could also check your homeowner's insurance policy to see if you can recover your money.
• Alarm your laptop - use a software like Laptop Alarm for your laptop's security. This software can emits a screech if someone shuts down yuor PC without permission and it can even send a warning message to your phone.
• Know your rights - it is always best to read the end-user license agreements (EULAs) when you install a program. Check them out with EUKAlyzer which analyses EULAs to point out potential problems.

For more tips on safer computing, visit PCMAG.com. Also keep checking our blog for more computer tips and tricks. Also, register for computer classes at any Orange County library. Remember these classes are free for Orange County residents.

For more information, call us at 407.835.7323 or check it out www.ocls.info