10 Tips to Enhance your PC Security

10 Tips to Enhance your PC Security

Today almost everyone of us have a PC with an internet connection but how many of us think about it’s security? In fact most of the people are least bothered about their PC’s security. Especially if you have an internet connection safeguarding your PC against network threats is a must. If your PC is not secured then it might be vulnerable to various threats. The threat may be as simple as a virus which corrupts your data or as complex as an identity theft where there are chances of huge loss of money. Did you know that unsecured PCs can be hijacked in minutes ? If you are really concerned about PC security then here are the top 10 security enhancements for your PC.

1. Check Windows Update. Windows Me, 2000, and XP users can configure automatic updates. Click on the Automatic Updates tab in the System control panel and choose the appropriate options.

2. Install a good Antivirus software and update it regularly. An Antivirus without updates is of no use.

3. Install a personal firewall. Both SyGate (www.sygate.com) and ZoneAlarm (www.zonelabs.com) offer free versions.

4. Install a good Antispyware.(Antivirus with built-in antispyware is a go0d choice)

5. Use strong passwords and change them periodically. Passwords should have at least seven characters; use letters and numbers and have at least one symbol. A decent example would be f8izKro#l. This will make it much harder for anyone to gain access to your accounts.

6. If you’re using Outlook or Outlook Express, use the current version or one with the Outlook Security Update installed. The update and current versions patch numerous vulnerabilities.

7. Be skeptical of things on the Internet. Don’t blindly assume that an email “From:” a particular person is actually from that person since it is possible to send a fake email.

8. Check for Versign SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) Certificate (Or logo) before you make any ecommerce transaction (Credit card transaction) with a website.

9. Never disable the Auto-Protect feature of your Antivirus. If your Antivirus doesn’t have Auto-Protect feature then manually scan the files before you execute them.

10. Never give out your passwords to anyone at any time even if the person claims to be from “support.”