Here are just a few simple ways to protect your computer and data:

Regularly scan your computers for spyware by manually scanning and by setting the software at a pre-determined time period. This will increase capturing problems shortly after you get them. Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may affect the performance of your computer and give attackers access to your data.

Keep all software up to date, not just your anti-virus or anti-malware programs. Hackers will attack known problems or vulnerabilities for each and every application you own. Protect your computer by regularly checking for updates and installing your operating systems automatic updates.

Implement and maintain anti-virus, anti-malware software and firewalls. Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable. Check your anti-virus software and your firewall regularly to update the programs definitions.

Create separate user accounts for each user. The more people that have access to your files the greater the risk that someone else may accidentally access, modify, and/or delete your files. The best way to protect your data is to have your access and account separate from other users. Only one (1) account per person and select passwords that is difficult to discover. If you need help with creating a password there are plenty of programs on the Internet to help you. One example can be found at http://www.goodpassword.com (non-endorsement applied).

Follow corporate policies and contractual obligations for handling and storing work-related information. If you use your computer for work-related purposes, make sure to follow any corporate policies for handling and storing the information. Our policies have been created and are frequently updated to protect proprietary information and customer data. Keep personal surfing habits away from business computers. Keep business surfing habits away from personal computers.

Dispose of sensitive information properly. Simply deleting a file does not completely erase it. To ensure that an attacker cannot access these files, make sure that you adequately erase sensitive files, but take sure the files you're destroying are your files that you have ownership in.