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This month we explored a different type of "homeland
security"...that of our computers. If you receive and send email, then
this information applies to you. If you shop on the Internet, this information
applies to you. If you have a high speed connection to the Internet, this
information applies to you.
Using an anti-virus software (and keeping it updated) will help keep your
computer and its data safe. My recommendation for Anti-virus software Norton
Anti-Virus. We explained the importance and how to keep your anti-virus
software updated and how you can do online scans of your computer for free
from:
Next, we discussed the prevalence of bogus email warnings and hoaxes.
Hoaxes usually are written in a manner that invokes panic or emotion and calls
for the recipient to forward the email to everyone in your address book...a
sure sign of a hoax. Here are some sites that debunk these myths and urban
legends:
I also discussed the truth and fiction about cookies. In a nutshell, 98% of
cookies are harmless and take up just a minuscule of hard drive space. I
recommend not sweating about cookies. To
read more on cookies, read the web site to end all web sites about cookies by
clicking here.
For those using high speed Internet services, we talked about the
importance of using a firewall to prevent 'hackers' from entering your
computer. Firewalls make your computer invisible to snooping eyes.
Unless you really feel the need for extra security, those who use a phone
line to access the Internet do not need a firewall. Firewalls should be a
standard tool for those using DSL, cable or other high speed access.
My favorite firewall is Zone
Alarm (free version). Tiny
firewall, and the firewall included in Norton
Internet security are also good.
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