Friends and family have asked me to give basic instructions for keeping their family, computers, and information safe from Internet exploits.

You can review it by clicking on the Internet item above.

Introduction

I consider myself pretty secure when it comes to computers. But I recently found that there are some new things I need to do to protect my family.

But let’s start with the basics. Here’s the stuff you should definitely be doing. If you don’t know how, let me know via the contact us link and I’ll try give better instructions.

(These apply to Windows users mostly. If you use a Mac or Linux, great. You probably have less to worry about than the average Windows user, and I don’t have a lot of advice for you.)

• Keep you software updated. Especially, turn on automatic updates for:
  • Windows
  • Your anti-virus and anti-spyware software

• Your web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Opera, etc.)

• Use a firewall

• Scan daily for viruses and spyware

• Teach your family safe browsing guidelines (coming soon)