Your Daily Computer Security Tips

According to a recent survey by security company Symantec, home computer security still has a long way to go to keep users relatively safe online.

In the survey, over 90% of users had an up to date antivirus program, and 82% had antispyware protection. That’s not bad.

But 81% thought they also had a firewall installed and enabled, when only 42% actually did.

Fully 75% thought they had antispam protection, but only 58% really did.

Overall, only 26% of users believed their PCs were very secure against viruses. Just 21% said their machines were very safe against attacks by hackers. These are terrible numbers, and need quick improvement.

As a first step, home users need to better understand their computers. You need to know what is running on your PC, and what isn’t.

To keep reasonably safe online, you must have up to date antivirus and antispyware programs, a firewall, and keep your Windows up to date. This is your basic, essential equipment for safe surfing.

The hackers and spammers come up with new ways to attack you just about every day, it seems. If you do not have at least the basic protections, you are opening the door wide and issuing a blanket invitation to the crooks to attack you. And they will, in short order.

Take a big step toward better online security by becoming a SaferSurfer. Read my message here: http://SaferSurfingProject.com

Syd Tash is a longtime computer security consultant, author, and founder of
The SaferSurfing Project. He has been keeping Web surfers like you safe and secure since the last century. Find out how to keep yourself safe online and do your part for a more secure Internet. Join the SaferSurfing Project here
=> http://SaferSurfingProject.com

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