TOP 10 Tips for keeping you safe this year!

January 29, 2009 by Spyware Guru Nik

Install an anti-virus and/or anti-spyware software program and make sure to keep it updated regularly - i.e.: download regular software updates etc.
Make sure you scan your PC regularly.
Perform regular system backups. If you contract a virus and have to revuild your entire PC, it may be the only way to recover your precious data. Ideally, you should backup your entire system on a regular basis, however if this is not practical, at least backup files that you can’t afford to lose or that would be difficult to replace: documents, photos, bookmark files, address books, important emails, etc.
When possible, avoid e-mail attachments both when sending and receiving e-mail. And especially avoid attachments with sexual file names.
Never open email attachments with the file extensions VBS, SHS, or PIF. These extensions are almost never used in normal attachments but they are frequently used by trojans such as viruses and worms. Add to that list attachments with double file extensions such as NAME.BMP.EXE or NAME.TXT.VBS.
Disconnect your network or modem cable when you’re not using your computer for an exteded period of time. If you choose not to, at least just power it down.
If you feel that an e-mail you get from a friend is strange (e.g.: it could be in a foreign language or it just says odd things) double check with the friend before opening the attachment.
When you receive an e-mail advertisement or unsolicited e-mail, do not open the attachment.
Do not trust the icons of attachment file. Worms often use executable files which have an icon resembling icons of picture, text, or archive files to fool the user.
Never accept attachments from strangers in online chat systems such as IRC, ICQ, or AOL Instant Messenger!