Fraud Tip of the Day - October 3

Computer Safety - Operating System and Web Browser Updates

If you want to protect the data on your home computer by keeping hackers out, you should start with the simplest tasks. We suggest you start with configuring your computer and web browsers for safety and keep software up-to-date.

Operating System and Browsers Exploits

Hackers usually gain access to computers by exploiting known vulnerabilities in operating systems (Macintosh, Windows, etc.), browsers (FireFox, Internet Explorer, etc.), and other software.

Hackers learn about exploits long before the general public does, so once you learn about one you should make patching it a priority.

Patching exploits is only the first step in protecting your computer. Hackers also take advantage computers that are properly updated but poorly configured. Do some research and make sure your computer and it's internet software is locked down to prevent hackers from compromising it.

Reducing your Risk

You can reduce your risk of intrusion by maximizing your operating system and web browser security. Investigate the "Tools" or "Options" menus and explore the secuity options. Make sure you know what you're doing before making any changes or you could block your internet access entirely! Use online help or well-known online security web resources for help in determining the best configuration for your operating system and web browser.

Patches and Service Packs

When exploits that could compromise computers and put users at risk are discovered, operating system and browser makers provide patches designed to plug the security "hole" as soon as possible. Many operating systems give you the option of either manually or automatically downloading and installing these patches. Either way is fine, just make sure you stay on top of it!

If your computer's operating system doesn't provide an automatic update feature, visit your computer manufacturer's website regularly and check for software updates to protect against the exploit du jour.

Don't Forget Email!

Email exploits are very popular among hackers. Modern email software packages provide significant protection to computers and their users but often must be activated, turned on or configured in some way.

Don't miss out on the protections built into your computer!

Yes, all this work is annoying but it's a necessary evil you must endure to keep your computer free of viruses, trojans, spyware, and adware. If your computer is compromised and your bank accounts are accessed by criminals or your computer is infected by a virus you have to spend $300 to have removed, the time spent keeping your computer up-to-date will feel like a bargain.

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