Staying safe online is an absolute must nowadays, the PC is not only a ‘portal’ back to friends and family, but also the interface to banking in many cases as well as providing access to cheap/ free telephone calls. However, being online presents an opportunity for hackers. Problems can present themselves from e-mail attachments, or simply surfing the web. However, these problems can largely be avoided by taking a few simple precautions:-

1 - Anti-Virus
It is absolutely essential to install an Anti-Virus program, these range from free downloads to packages with annual subscriptions. All of them offer varying degrees of protection against viruses. Schedule scans on a regular weekly basis. Ensure the virus definitions are updated on a regular basis in order to provide the best protection.

2 -Firewall
Again, this is an essential, the Firewall provides protection against malicious attacks. Firewalls are now commonly bundled with AV software, but it is possible to purchase them separately or indeed download free versions.

3 - Microsoft Updates
Ensure that the latest Microsoft updates are downloaded and installed, these are provided on a regular basis and help to plug any potential ‘holes’.

strong>4 - Spyware
Various websites can pose serious problems to your PC’s security, hence the need to deploy software to root
out these issues. Threats can take the form of annoying ad pop-ups to taking control of your system. Anti-Spyware programs are freely available to provide protection (Microsoft, Spybot).

5 - Surge Protection
On the hardware side, ensure that you use a Surge Protector (Parafoudre) that provides protection for both the PC and telephone line against power surges. ADSL modems are prone to ‘cooking’ in times of electrical surtension.

Some Recommended Websites
Avast, Grisoft AVG, Comodo, Zone Alarm, Microsoft anti-spyware, Microsoft online scanner, Spybot, Lavasoft