Protect your PC

Hackers, crackers, viruses and spyware all inhabit the Internet trying to gain access to your computer and it’s hidden secrets – or just to annoy and inconvenience you.

Keeping would-be attackers from stealing your data and personal information requires software like an antivirus package, antispyware software, a firewall and maybe some parental controls. But even with all of these in place, the likelihood of becoming a victim is only reduced, not eliminated.

Antivirus software checks files for a recognisable “footprint” or signature – a sequence hidden in the code that uniquely identifies each virus. However, antivirus protection is only as good as the last update of signatures and keeping up-to-date is essential. Even then, new viruses
have to be identified before they can be neutralised – so someone has to be infected first.

Firewalls work by restricting access to and from your PC. Programs need your explicit authorization before being able to access the Internet or another computer and any program or computer trying to access your PC will also need to ask for your permission.

Below are some useful hints and tips to help you stay safe
while surfing on the Internet:

• When you download something, make sure you read all the fine print. Clicking “I Accept” willy-nilly can lead to unwanted pop ups, ads or worse on your computer.
  
• If you are unsure what a particular file or program is, search for it in a search engine to find out if it is legitimate or something nasty.
  
• If you purchase something online, try and do it from reputable companies (i.e. companies you know of) and always type their web address in the address bar, as opposed to clicking on a link to get to their website.
  
• When you have finished browsing the Internet for the day, it’s a good idea to delete any temporary files, cookies (tracking files), browsing history and saved passwords.

By observing all these steps will ensure that you stay safe
online and your personal data is kept secure.

How The TechGuys can help

Our TechFriend™ service can answer your questions and solve your problems over the phone or by remotely logging in to your computer to fix it any time of the day or night.