Fraud Tip of the Day - October 3

Computer Safety - Operating System and Web Browser Tips

There are a couple of easy tasks you can do yourself to keep hackers out of your computer: Configure it for safety and update its software regularly.

Hackers also take advantage of unsecured Web browsers (like Internet Explorer or Netscape) and operating system software (like Windows or Linux).

Lessen your risk by changing the settings in your browser or operating system and increasing your online security. Check the "Tools" or "Options" menus for built-in security features. If you need help understanding your choices, use your "Help" function.

Your operating system might offer free software patches that close holes in the system that hackers could exploit. In fact, some common operating systems can be set to automatically retrieve and install patches for you.

If your system doesn't do this, bookmark your computer manufacturer's website and visit regularly and update your system with defenses against the exploit du jour.

Updating can be as simple as one click. Your email software may help you avoid viruses by giving you the ability to filter certain types of spam. It's up to you to activate the filter. In addition, consider using operating systems that allow automatic updates.