Secure your computer

Your computer is important for your day to day activities—surfing the web, checking emails, banking and maybe even shopping.

However if you don’t protect your computer properly, you are putting yourself and possibly your family and friends at risk. So make sure it is protected from harmful emails and viruses, and from unauthorised people accessing your internet connection and personal information.

By following the steps below you can:

• develop safe online habits and plan an effective approach to online security
• protect your computer from malicious software such as viruses or spyware
• prevent any unauthorised person from using your computer
• make sure no one can secretly use your internet connection, and
• recover important information if your computer is stolen.

Basic steps to secure your computer

• Step 1: Set and protect your passwords
• Step 2: Use and update anti-virus software
• Step 3: Use and update anti-spyware software
• Step 4: Install and use a firewall
• Step 5: Smart settings for your internet browser
• Step 6: Reduce unwanted emails—managing spam
• Step 7: Controlling your internet connection

More advanced security options

• Step 8: Back-up your online data
• Step 9: Smart sharing of files
• Step 10: Smart wireless internet connection
• Step 11: Smart online telephoning (VoIP)