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  • Computers, video games and TVs have always been fascinating to me. Not only are they wonderful ways to relax, but they’re also immensely useful as tools. Computers allow us to communicate instantly with family members across the country through e-mail, video games allow us to make friends with people across the globe we wouldn’t even meet otherwise, and TVs allow us to see what’s happening in our very own towns…all at the touch of a button. Sure, over time I’ve managed to assemble a collection of other electronic gadgets that would make most people do a double-take, but that just isn’t enough. I want to know how they work. I want to know why they work. I want to know that I can connect every electronic device in my home into a single, fully-functional network that I can access from over 1,000 miles away at the drop of a hat. Not because I have a reason to do so, but because I can. I am a geek, plain and simple.
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Internet Security

by Community Connector Community Connector on 03-11-2011 09:39 AM - last edited on 03-17-2011 12:52 PM


The Internet’s a pretty amazing place.  It’s a place where anyone can stay in touch with family, connect with friends, shop, learn and explore.  It’s also a place filled with more dangers than many people realize.  Online scams, computer viruses and spyware are just a few of these dangers and each one represents a serious threat to your privacy and personal information.  So how can you protect yourself from these dangers?  It’s easier than you might think.


First and foremost, it’s important to practice safe browsing habits.  When visiting a website, type the address directly into your web browser rather than simply following links.  Don’t provide personal information on sites that don’t display an SSL lock icon in your browser window.  Also, make sure that you’re using the latest version of your web browser:


Internet Explorer

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/


Firefox

http://www.mozilla.com/


Chrome

http://www.google.com/chrome


Safari

http://www.apple.com/safari/


Opera

http://www.opera.com/browser/


Second, consider installing a reputable, subscription-based antivirus or web security program.  These programs not only protect you from malicious programs, but can also help you identify any that may already exist on your computer.  Kaspersky Antivirus, Trend Micro Internet Security and Norton 360 are excellent examples of such programs and many more are available.  Just keep in mind that more is not necessarily better!  Most antivirus and security programs are designed to be used as stand-alone tools and may not function properly if a second program of the same type is installed or running at the same time.



Third, create strong passwords for your e-mail, online services and favorite websites.  This means using a combination of numbers, letters and special characters (when allowed) to create your password.  The stronger your password is, the harder it will be for others to guess what it is.  You’ll also want to use different passwords for each site or service.  For suggestions on how to create passwords, make sure to check out the following article from Microsoft’s Safety & Security Center:


http://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/passwords-create.aspx


Last, but certainly not least, never install a program simply because it’s free!  Many malicious programs masquerade as free tools or utilities and are difficult to remove once they’ve been installed.  Always research free programs thoroughly before downloading them and make sure to read their licensing agreements before you install them.