Critical Advice If you are online, you should be concerned about your online Security and Privacy, you should  immediately follow these steps

Make a Back-up  - Make a back-up of any files you consider to be important.  In addition to files you have created, be sure to copy important application files such as Web Browser favorites/bookmarks, email address books, etc.  If you have a CD-RW Drive you can probably copy everything you want onto a blank CD.  A Back-up will be invaluable to you if a hacker destroys your computer (or if your own actions cause damage to the computer)

Update Your Operating System  -  Vulnerabilities are being discovered all the time.  Keep Your Windows operating system up to date with the latest patches (Select: start menu --> windows update) or click here . On the web page, select: "scan for updates", and download anything labeled as "critical".    You should also get the latest updates for your Microsoft Office Suite (this is NOT included under "windows update").

Use Anti-virus Software  - See my Virus Overview - Remember, the key is to keep your anti-virus software up to date.  To check on your AV software, double click on it's icon in the bottom right corner of your computer display, look for an update option.  You may have to pay $$ to renew your AV subscription, but this expense is absolutely necessary.

Use a Firewall  - See my Firewall Overview - Links to everything you need to secure and test your connection. 

Spyware - Learn about hidden programs, and how to control what gets loaded when you PC boots-up. Install a spyware scanning program to try and remove these parasites.

Know your software Applications - Explore the options and settings of any software programs installed on your computer.

Learn about the issues -There are many website to help you. Many sites are linked from my following webpages: 

• Privacy Page - Links to the a wide variety of topics, organizations, and articles about privacy.
• Getting Connected - Includes information about setting up your home network
• Cookies - See how web sites recognize you and track your movements.
• Web Browser Privacy - See how you interact with many websites in more ways than just cookies
• Other Applications: Privacy Issues - see how  using email and other applications can also risk your privacy.
• Parent's Guide for Online Children -  options are presented for you consider.
• Article: Unprotected PCs can be hijacked in minutes.

Note for my Alumni: Your referrals are always appreciated