It seems hardly a week goes by without a report of computer break-ins, hacker attacks, new spam attacks, viruses and so on.  This is why I insist so much on you having a full suite of security programs on your computer, and keeping everything up to date.

But not all threats are hi-tech, or can be defended against directly by you.  Big companies are sometimes lax in their handling of sensitive data.  Laptops get lost, files disappear, restaurant waiters pass or swipe your card twice, critical information can be found in your trash, and so on.

In general, never give out your birth date, maiden name or government ID number (social insurance/security number) unless it is absolutely required.  Many companies ask for this information not because they need it, but simply because they can.  Just say no.  Do not carry your government card with you, or use any part of it as a password.

Some large department stores ask for your postal or zip code at the cash, or even your phone number.  Say no.

 Now here are a few other tips to keep in mind:

*When entering your details into an ATM, phone, or computer at work, watch your back.  Glance around FIRST, to ensure no one is watching.

*Do not be tricked by fake emails or phishing scams into giving your details online.  Reputable companies never ask for this information this way.

 *When disposing of old computers, make sure all the data is really erased.  Get a shredding program and do the job properly.

*Before throwing out CDs, DVDs, removable hard drives, flash drives or tapes, physically break and destroy them.

 Just a little vigilance and common sense will go a long way towards keeping you safe, both online and off.

 Syd Tash is a noted computer security consultant and author of How to Protect Your Computer Online.  He has been keeping Internet surfers safe and secure since the last century.  Find out how he does it; protect your own computer with five layers of protection right here:  => http://MyPCSecuritySite.com  

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