Making sure a computer is secure should be Job One for anyone who uses the Internet. Unfortunately, most people don’t pay enough attention to it . . . if they think about it at all.
That changes once you’ve suffered the consequences of inattention and been the victim of a virus, spyware, a hacking intrusion or online identity theft. These are preventable if you take the proper steps.
In this installment of my Computing 101 series on the basics of computer literacy, I’ll look at what you need to know to keep your computer and your personal data safe. [You can find past installments at chron.com/computing101.]
I suspect much of this you’ve heard before, even if you’re not computer savvy. It’s common sense: Your best defense is often your own behavior.
* Be click-wary. Don’t open attachments in e-mails you weren’t expecting, and don’t click on random links sent via e-mail, which often are attempts to lure you to malicious sites. Even e-mails that look official may contain links that take you to booby-trapped Web pages. For example, if you get an e-mail telling you your Amazon order has shipped — but you hadn’t ordered anything recently from that store — hover your cursor over the link. If it says something other than an Amazon.com address, delete the e-mail.
* Don’t click on pop-ups. Some Web sites that have been compromised may display pop-ups trying to sell you security software, usually by declaring that your PC is already infected. Do NOT click on them, and don’t download the offered product or let them scan your system. These are usually spyware programs masquerading as antispyware products, and once on your system, they demand that you pay money to remove them. In general, it’s a good idea never to buy something that comes at you unsolicited online,…