Security

Keeping your IT private

Computer security is becoming increasingly important as we all move towards working and playing online, but how do we ensure that what should be private is kept that way?

Security should be considered in all areas of your computer setup; from the physical location of your equipment (keeping it marked or tagged for easy identification in the case of loss or theft) to the configuration of your passwords, firewall and anti-virus software.

Passwords

At the very least, you should password protect your logon (In Windows, create separate user accounts for everyone who will use the PC), with strong, difficult to guess passwords.  Only give administrative privileges to users who really need them; some malicious software will take advantage of more trusting users!

A free application like RoboForm will allow you to store and remember different secure passwords for many sites and applications.  Don't use the same password everywhere you go!

Keep Windows and your Microsoft software applications up to date automatically using Microsoft Update; many other applications offer regular updates and it's important to ensure these are maintained.

Good foundations like this will deter the casual snooper, however there's more to do before you can consider yourself safe.

Basic Security

Never use the internet unless protected by a firewall - a hardware one as built into most internet routers (NOT USB-type broadband modems) is recommended, but the software version built into Windows XP and later is worth using too.  Most experts agree that Microsoft's Internet Explorer should be avoided if possible; free alternatives from Mozilla and Opera offer more features and better security.

Antivirus and anti-spyware applications will help protect your PC from online attack, but ensuring you surf safely is your first line of defence.  Never open email attachments or downloads from sources you don't trust; avoid web sites from the "further" reaches of the web and be careful when using peer to peer networking clients; downloads aren't always what they claim to be!  Keep all security software up to date; most will do so automatically over the internet.

Emails

Don't pass on chain emails; they are all scams - check them on www.snopes.com if you're not sure.  Never give out your passwords to anyone and be careful when clicking on links in emails; your bank is unlikely these days to send you email because so many of them are the victims of hoaxers.  When you do log on to a secure web site, check that the address begins https: and that a closed padlock icon is displayed at the bottom of the window.

Beyond these basics, you may want to consider data encryption. Although you may have a password on your user account, your files are still visible to anyone with access to the hard drive; vital for laptops that are more liable to be lost or stolen than desktops, encryption can render useless all your data until the correct password is supplied. Although basic encryption is available with Windows XP and Vista, the free application TrueCrypt offers more flexibility and features.

By following the advice here, your computer and online experience should be safe but always beware; exercise caution when surfing the unknown and think twice before clicking on each link.  If you need any help or advice, either before or after a security disaster, call Calum on 07973 241413 or contact him through the website here.