Regularly download security updates Microsoft. (Microsoft.com)
Never install anything offered to you while surfing the Internet.
Tighten your Internet Explorer security settings by disabling
ActiveX controls that are unsigned and not marked as safe.
Use a pop-up blocker to zap unauthorized browser windows
that appear. EMS Free Surfer mk II (www.emsproject.com/FS/fs.htm)
is a freeware pop-up killer that also can keep the cache clean. Pop-Up
Stopper (www.panicware.com) also is an effective (and free) pop-up
blocker.
Turn off the Windows Messaging Service in Windows 2000, XP
and NT. Spammers are already exploiting the feature to send unsolicited
ads to PC desktops, and security experts warn it could be used to
send malicious code as well. From the control panel, select administrative
tools and then services. Double click on Messenger and change the
start up type to disabled.
Always read user agreements when downloading software from
the Web. Many free and inexpensive programs contain third-party applications
that can deliver advertising, collect private information or change
your system settings.
Use a firewall, even if you have a dial-up connection.
Firewalls guard against hacker attacks and warn you if an unauthorized
program tries to phone home from your PC. Zone Lab (www.zonelabs.com)
offers a free version of its Zonealarm. If using Windows XP, enable
the built-in-firewall.
Download spyware detection and removal tools such as Spybot
Search and Destroy (http://security.kolla.de/) and AdAware (www.lavasoftusa.com).
Run regular checks.
Attention Mac Users Very few online parasites target
Apple computers, but if you don’t want to take any chances, run MacScan
(http://macscan.securemac.com/) to search for spyware, keystroke loggers
and Trojan horses.
Broderbund software comes with certain programs,
such as PrintMaster, American Greeting Cards, etc.
