Article Advise

submitted: Aug 25th 2008 | by: PaulWilcox | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 376 | |

It is hard to imagine but just by innocently downloading a file from the Internet, your identity can be compromised. Most of the time, files are from a trusted source. But all it takes is the downloading of one corrupt file for your computer to be infected with a virus, worm or spyware and then you are in danger of becoming a victim of identity theft.

To keep this from happening to you, it is important to keep the security settings on your computer up to date and never download a file unless you know it is safe.

The newest operating systems like Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, and ME have options to automatically update security settings so be sure to utilize these tools. For later operating systems, be sure to update your security settings regularly from Microsoft Updates. Scan tour computer as soon as you have received updates to check for new viruses and other potential security risks.

Be sure and update your system often and scan your computer after you have updated it for potential viruses and other security risks such as unwanted programs. Thieves can use these programs to gather personal data for identity theft purposes.

Utilizing a firewall can also protect you and your computer from unknown dangers. It is also a good idea to program your anti-virus software to scan incoming email attachments. You can also block unwanted emails by using a spam blocker to reduce the possibility of receiving unwanted items. And of course, never open an email from someone you don't know or download an attachment.

Removing viruses and spyware if your computer has become infected is important as well. The longer your computer is compromised the higher the chances that your personal information may be stolen for identity theft purposes. Using programs your internet service provider may provide to eliminate these threats or seeking the help of computer repair technicians promptly will reduce the potential for identity theft.

So to stay protected online, update your security settings often, run system scans for potentially harmful programs regularly, don't open emails or files from unknown people or source.

Only download files from trusted sources on the internet and be sure to update the security settings on your computer frequently to guard against the ever changing virus threat.

About the Author

Is your internet security really doing what it's supposed to? Don't just blindly rely on some software package to protect you. Find out what you need to know to keep yourself protected online at the Security Manor website. Visit http://www.securitymanor.com for more helpful tips & advice.

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