Thought I would post something that`s actually "useful" for a change.
If you get a lot of “spy ware” on your computer, it can slow it down and cause some other issues, which is mostly just an inconvenience. Although, some of this "spy ware" can capture information that you might not want captured. The information provided below will help in this case too.
If you get a virus, it can be bad enough to have to re-format your hard drive and re-install the operating system and all other software. Again, this is more of an inconvenience... a bit more of an inconvenience if you have other important information on the computer...... and no backup!
Now, if a hacker manages to hack into your computer or the computer is physically stolen, your personal information can be accessed quite easily. That is another story altogether! Identity theft can destroy a person’s life!
On that note, I thought I would pass along some valuable information that can help prevent such a hacker or thief from doing irreparable damage to your financial well being.
Therefore, here we go……….
I am sure everyone knows that any high-speed connections (broadband) should go through personal firewall software. It is also a good idea for dialup connections. This will help, but there is more you can do, and should do, to be “safer”. Remember, hackers are usually one step ahead of the software folks.
Many of you use “auto-complete” for many of your surfing chores. While this is a somewhat of a “tiny” time-saver, it can also be a hacker’s dream-come-true! In order for Windows to perform that function, it needs to “store” that information on your computer. Information that is stored on your computer can be “hacked”. The next time you see “auto-complete” fill in your SS# or your credit card# as you start to type when you are doing some on-line shopping... think about it! If you see “auto-complete” fill in your user-id and password as you start to type them in at your on-line banking site or some other important site…………….. think about it again!!!
Anyhow, here are some things you can do to protect yourself:
If you are using a recent version of Internet Explorer:
Select the Tools option from the menu.
First, select the Advanced tab.
Scroll down through the list and un-check these options:
“Use inline AutoComplete for Web addresses”
“Use inline AutoComplete for Windows Explorer”
Then select the Content tab.
Then select the AutoComplete button.
Then UN-CHECK the box next to: Web-addresses, Forms, and User Names and Passwords on Forms. (Forms & User Names/Passwords on forms...for sure)
Then select the Clear Forms and Clear Passwords buttons to clear any existing information.
Now select OK and return to the Content tab.
Select the My Profile button.
You will now see some (but not all) of the information that is stored on your computer. I select every tab and clear all the information.
If you are using the latest FireFox:
Select the Tools menu option.
Then select Options.
Then select Saved Form Information.
Un-check the box “Save information I enter in web page forms and the Search Bar”
Then select Saved Passwords.
Un-check the box Remember Passwords
If you are using the latest Opera:
Select the Tools menu option.
Select Preferences.
Select Personal Information and clear all fields.
Select Security.
In the Security section, you can setup a master password for your other passwords. It is a bit of a pain, but it is something to consider.
Other tips:
With any browser, make it a point to clear your cache after ANY on-line buying experience.
Find out how to mange the cookies on your computer. Make it a point to check them and remove only the ones you need. I delete all of mine frequently to be on the safe side.
Keep all your web software and protective software up to date………… PERIOD!
In the end, some of the above will cause you some inconveniences. Yes, auto-complete will not do anything for you if you turn it off. You will also have to actually remember you user-id’s/passwords for sites you frequent. However, if the above information saves just one person from identity theft it will be worth it. Of course, those people will never know………… cause they have managed to avoid it.
Hope some people find this useful. Also, anybody that needs any additional info or help......... let me know, or post it in this thread.
Bookmarks