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Safe Computing

It is important to protect your data and identity on the Internet. Here are several steps you can take to protect yourself.

Windows Updates

Windows updates include known security issues that may leave your computer vulnerable to viruses and other attacks. Make sure Windows Updates are automatically installed on your computer:

Go to Start -> Control Panel -> Security Center -> Automatic Updates
Make sure the Automatic option is selected

Windows Firewall

The Windows firewall provides protection against attempts to gain unauthorized access to your computer.

NOTE: If you recently purchased your computer from Penn's Computer Connection, your firewall should already be turned on and you can skip this step.

To turn your Windows firewall on,

Go to Start -> Control Panel -> Security Center -> Windows Firewall.
Make sure the On option is selected.

Phishing

Phishing refers to attempts to gain access to your passwords or other sensitive information by posing as a legitimate authority.

This often comes in the form of an e-mail that appears to be from your school or bank. It may use the institution's official logo and may direct you to a website that looks exactly like the website of the legitimate institution.

Note: If you are using Internet Explorer 7 it comes with an automatic phishing detector. To activate the detector choose Phishing Filter from the Internet Explorer Tools menu.

Remember that no legitimate company or bank will ever ask for your password through e-mail.

For more information on phishing, click here.

Spyware and Adware

Adware programs are generally intended to force you to view ads or visit certain websites, while spyware programs attempt to monitor which sites you visit on the Internet. They may also attempt to steal passwords and credit card information.

You can avoid most spyware and adware by following the same precautions described in the Virus Protection section. You should also frequently run a spyware removal tool. Two free, quality anti-spyware programs are: