1. Make sure you install an antivirus package,
configure it to automatically update virus
definitions daily and scan your primary hard drive and incoming email. Stand alone
Antivirus products are avalable from a number of vendors. Symantec and HP partnered together to create
HP Care Packs that combine backup and antivirus solutions.
2.
Instruct all computer users NOT to open unexpected
e-mail or attachments. If they are unsure, first run an antivirus scan against the
attachment.
4.
Spyware is everywhere. 90% of the computers connected to the Internet have been infected with spyware. Click here to learn about the
symptoms and solutions. 10 Ways to Stop Spyware
5.
Do regular Backups and test the restore function to assure the
usability of the backup. Store them in a secure location away from the computer, preferably off site. Encrypted Remote Backups are available for as little as $14.95 per month. Click here for Pricing Examples. [ MORE on Remote Backups ]
6.
Make sure you have enough hard drive storage space and
memory; this will minimize any error messages, application failures, or
reduced performance in your system.
8.
Make at least one qualified IT employee or outside consultant responsible for your cyber security needs and make sure that they
have a complete understanding of your unique system needs and today's threats. Consider having a Vulnerability Assessment
done by a competent company. Vulnerability Assessments
start at around $295.00. Click here for a sample report.
9.
Create "good" passwords; passwords that have a minimum
of six (6) characters, use a combination of alpha and numeric characters, upper
and lower case, and at least one (1) special character (e.g., Jimi@123). For
extra security you can also add a space in the password.
10.
Check for software updates at least every 15 days
or set your system to automatically go to the Windows updates site (http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp)
and check for updates. Install any critical security patches.
