Protect
Your Computer From Malicious
Activities
Most
people
already know how
important
it is to keep
up
to date
anti-virus
software running
on
our computers. But
not
everyone realizes
there
are other types
of
malicious activities
that we need to be
protected
from. Spyware, Adware,
Malware, Trojans
and Hackers are
all out there on
the Net and are
looking for ways
to attack your computer.
Not to worry though,
with even basic knowledge
and up to date software
you are well protected.
To prevent
an invasion
we
recommend
the following:
Viruses/Trojans
• Make sure you have a good anti-virus software installed and running on
your computer. One very good one that we like is AVG which is available as a
free download from http://free.grisoft.com . AVG is very non-invasive and is
self updating!
• Keep your software up to date, not only your anti-virus software but
your
Windows updates too. Windows updates play a big part in keeping your operating
system secure.
• Never open attachments from unknown sources. Most viruses spread through
email and opening an unsafe attachment is the #1 way that most people get viruses
on
their computers.
Spyware/Adware/Malware
• If
your
computer
seems to be slowing down
and becoming
more
and more frustrating,
it
might very well be
spyware,
adware or malware
causing
your woes. These
unwelcome guests
are
actually
quite
easy
to get rid of and
you'll
probably notice
a
huge improvement in
your
computer's performance
after
they are gone.
• We recommend that you have a spyware remover installed and do an update
and scan at least once a week. Some of the good ones we like include SpyBot Search
& Destroy, Ad-Aware (both available from download.com)
and Windows Defender (available from Microsoft.com).
All
are
free
and
they
work
even
better
when used in conjunction rather than going with just one.
Hackers
• To
prevent unauthorized access to your computer it is critical
to have some sort of firewall set up. This can be a software firewall, such
as Windows Firewall which is built in to Windows XP, or it can be a physical
firewall, such as a DSL modem, which is physically in the line between your computer
and
the Internet. For most situations using Windows Firewall is
sufficient.
You
can turn this on through your Control Panel.
As
always, thank you for
choosing Brainstorm Internet.
It is our pleasure to
serve you and we will continue
striving
for
new
ways to improve your
Internet
experience.
Your
Brainstorm Internet Team
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