Tips on computer security

Security is one of the most important concerns while using computers. It is worthy to spend time and money.

It is very important to understand that what can cause harm to your system and how we avoid these problems. Here are some tips for computer safety. 
Tip 1: Firewall is used as first line of defense in computer security by Windows. It will not allow anyone to connect to your computer. It works as a barrier and restricts viruses and worms from internet. Make sure firewall in turn on and you can check it by clicking start, then control panel, security center, finally clicking to windows firewall and confirm it is on. There few example of Firewall like Norton Personal Firewall, ZoneAlarm from Zonelabs and Sygate Personal Firewall. Any program that tries to access internet will ask for your approval when you are using firewall on. Be patient and do not irritate, this is for the safety of your system.
Tip 2: Spyware are malicious program that may corrupt your computer functioning. You must have an anti-spyware program installed on your computer to detect and delete spyware. These are few example of anti-spyware program Spyware Blaster, Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition, Microsoft windows spyware and spybot search and destroy. Updating windows may prevent spyware programs. Turned on automatic update and always download from trusted website. If you are in doubt, use search engine to check for safety of program or file. Never click “Ok” or “Agree” button in doubt use “X” mark or Alt +F4 keys to close the Windows.
Tip 3: Virus as the name suggest is dangerous and can create so much of trouble to your computer. It is a code created by people and you may be surprised to know that some viruses can replicate themselves. It is hidden program and actives when a program is installed or use. You must use antivirus program to protect your computer. Antivirus program automatically scan any incoming files to your computer. Install antivirus program is not enough; remember to update their newer definitions. Norton, McAfee, PC-cillin, AVG are some example of antivirus program.
Tip 4: Macroviruses are even more dangerous, it affect Microsoft word and similar application.Microsoft word warns you for macros in a document then disable it and delete file immediately. Trojan horse is the most common virus known to users. Antivirus program sometime cannot alone restrict Trojan horse. There is Ewido Security Suite which may be helpful for complete security from Trojan horse.
Tip 5:Cookies are small amount of information stored on your computer by a Web site and these are generally harmless. It can be used to create a profile of the website you visited according to your interests. Internet explorer and firefox are the browser which can give you a better control over cookies.
Tip 6: An ActiveX control is like a plug-in, it gives you illusion of security. It can be malicious and you should not allow running Active X on your computer. The default settings for Internet Explorer prompt when an ActiveX script is trying to install itself. You can double check this by clicking on the 'Tools' menu, click 'Internet Options', and select the 'Security' tab. Select 'Internet' zone and click the 'Custom Level' button.
Tip 7: Phishing is a type of deception designed to steal your identity.A phishing scam sent by e-mail may start with con artists who send millions of e-mail messages that appear to come from popular Web sites or sites that you trust. No one from business will ever ask should ask you for passwords, login names, Social Security numbers, or other personal information through e-mail. Be wary of clicking on links in e-mail messages and do not enter personal or financial information into pop-up windows.
Top 8: Generally spam is commercial advertising, often for dubious products, get-rich-quick schemes, or quasi-legal services. Spam costs the sender very little to send -- most of the costs are paid for by the recipient. Just delete it and do not forward chain messages. Do not click "remove me" button; it just makes the problem worse.
Please follow carefully these instructions and be safe.

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