Identity Theft: Part III Keep Your Computer Safe

Many people are afraid thieves will somehow get their information off of the computer. This is possible for them to do, but there are ways to protect yourself. Some people find that installing anti-virus, anti-spy ware, firewall protection and hardware firewalls is over-kill. In reality, when protecting your personal information you should always err on the side of caution.

• When setting up wireless Internet access, educate yourself on wireless security.
• Store your backed-up data away from your computer.
• Never open an e-mail from someone you don’t know.
• Never open attachments unless you know where it is coming from. Make sure you set up Windows to show all file extensions.
• Make sure you set up your browser to block pop-ups.
• Never use your credit card on a website that does not direct you to a secure page with a URL starting with https://.
• Use different passwords for every single site you use that asks for one. Always mix letters and numbers to make up that password.
• Never keep financial information on your hard drive.

For more information on Computer Safety go to Internet Safety Solutions.