General Computer Security Tips

1) If you use Windows XP, use Service Pack 2 (SP2) or later
It is very important to use SP2 or later. The main focus of SP2 was security enhancements. A new computer without SP2 installed and put on the Internet is usually infected with a virus within an hour. This happens without getting email attachments or any other of the normal methods of infection, but just because you are connected to the Internet makes you vulnerable to attacks.

2) Turn on "Windows Update"
New security issues are found all the time and Windows XP has a way to send you updates automatically. To make sure this is turned on go to:
a) Click on Windows Start button
b) Click on Control Panel
c) Click on Security Center
d) Click on Automatic Updates and set it on to the setting you would prefer

3) Turn on the "Windows Firewall"
Firewalls create a protective wall between your computer and the outside world. They work by filtering out unauthorized or potentially dangerous types of data from the Internet, while still allowing other (good) data to reach your computer.
a) Click on Windows Start button
b) Click on Control Panel
c) Click on Security Center
d) Click on Windows Firewall and set it to on

4) Use Antivirus software.
There are many packages available. Some antivirus software packages are free, and others you may have to pay a yearly subscription fee to receive updates.

Below are some more general tips.

1. Don't open emails or attachments from unknown sources. Be suspicious of any unexpected email attachments even if they appear to be from someone you know.

2. Use hard-to-guess passwords. Mix upper case, lower case, numbers, or other characters not easy to find in a dictionary, and make sure they are at least eight characters long.

3. Back-up your computer data on disks or CDs regularly. Backup your reports using the HomeGauge Gold service.

4. Don't install file sharing or other free utilities software. This software is often full of spyware/adware that can junk up a computer very fast.