Michael’s Online Security tips

1. Never ever provide your credit card details to anyone as a result of following a link in an email (don't do this over the phone either) only do this if you have accessed a trusted site or service by your own actions.(i.e. you have typed the correct address for your internet banking)

2. If an offer sounds too good, it is too good - too many people have been lured into scams where they think they can get lots of money for not much effort (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advance_fee_fraud)

3. Do not accept offers for free antivirus or spyware programs - only purchase these from reputable vendors like Symantec or MacAfee - you can get these online or at reputable retailers.

4. Update your virus/spyware definitions automatically - see their instructions

5. Install Windows security updates automatically (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/automaticupdate.mspx)

6. Turn off your computer when you aren't using it - saves power and removes it from being a target on the internet

7. Make sure that you have a firewall turned on either through your internet security software such as (http://www.symantec.com/norton/internet-security) (I don't get any commission from these guys but they are one of the most simplest overall security solutions and up to date with the latest threats) or within Microsoft networking (http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/firewall/using.mspx)

8. Do not open attachments in emails from people that you don't know - they could be installing software to access your computer and information. Here are some tips on downloading files (http://www.microsoft.com/protect/yourself/downloads/tips.mspx)

9. To learn more read sites like http://www.microsoft.com/protect/default.mspx http://www.download.com/How-tos/1200-2023_4-5157516.html, http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/basics/default.mspx