Safe Computing and Surfing
New computer users are usually not aware of all the dangers on the Internet. They are excited about email and web surfing and just blindly go forth, not realizing what may lie in store if they don't practice safe habits.
Eventually these users may have a slow computer as the computer is infected with spyware and possibly virus.
This can be avoided if only the user practices safe habits!
- Habit #1. Make sure the computer has an updated malware scanner. It doesn't have to be an expensive program as there are a lot of free scanners available.
- Habit #2. Keep Windows updated! These updates are not intended to bother folks. They are intended to keep computers safe!
- Habit #3. When reading email, don't blindly click on links. That link may infect your computer. Don't even open emails from strangers unless you are expecting the email.
- Habit #4. Stay away from porn sites!
- Habit #5. Avoid programs to get illegal music, videos, etc. Ugly stuff can 'hitch a ride' to your computer and infect it.
- Habit #6. Be careful when downloading free stuff. Some free stuff is good, but other free stuff can be dangerous! Join a Yahoo group and ask about that free stuff. Someone will let you know if it is safe.
It also helps to use a browser like Firefox or Opera. These browsers don't have ActiveX!