Fuschia Group | Welkom

• 1. Check windows update regularly. Set Windows to automatically download and install updates. To check go to start> control panel> security centre make sure that everything is set to on and that they on is green. If not click the drop down arrows to correct.
• 2. Make sure that Windows has a firewall and that it is on. You can check in the security centre if not you can download a free version from ZoneAlarm (www.zonelabs.com.)
• 3. Install a spyware protector. Microsoft offers a free version called Windows Defender.
• 4. Install an antivirus solution. Avast offers top notch protection for free download at www.avast.com and keep it up to date. You can also try Grisoft AVG Free Edition (Grisoft Inc., www.grisoft.com).
• 5. Use strong passwords and change them periodically. Passwords should have at least seven characters; use letters and numbers and have at least one symbol. A decent example would be f8izKro@l. But don’t use this one. This will make it much harder for anyone to gain access to your accounts.
• 6. If you’re using Outlook or Outlook Express, use the current version or one with the Outlook Security Update installed. The update and current versions patch numerous vulnerabilities.
• 7. Be sceptical of things on the Internet. Don’t assume that e-mail “From:” a particular person is actually from that person until you have further reason to believe it’s that person. Don’t assume that an attachment is what it says it is. Don’t give out your password to anyone, even if that person claims to be from “support.”
• 8. If using online banking have only the website browser open and no other windows open. Type the url directly into the browser never use a link and never use a favourite.
• 9. Block pop-up spam messages in Windows NT, 2000, or XP by disabling the Windows Messenger service (this is unrelated to the instant messaging program). Open Control Panel | Administrative Tools | Services and you’ll see Messenger. Right-click and go to Properties. Set Start-up Type to Disabled and press the Stop button. Bye-bye, spam pop-ups! Any good firewall will also stop them.
• 10. If you have a wireless network, turn on the security features: Use MAC filtering, turn off SSID broadcast, and even use WEP with the biggest key you can get.

Note:  If you are using a work computer your IT department should have set the above up if you have doubts about your security go and speak to your IT department. For home users if you have got the above set up your computer will be secure. If you have any quarries don’t hesitate to contact me.