Security Checklist for a PC

SECURING WINDOWS:

• Activate automatic updates.
• Install Firewall, virus scanner and antispyware tools.
• Update all security programs.
• Secure the system regularly.

EMAIL ACCOUNT WITHOUT
LOOPHOLES:

• Use a mail program that is considered to be safe, e.g. Mozilla Thunderbird.
• Deactivate the automatic preview function.
• Deactivate automatic opening of file attachments.
• Connect a spam blocker such as
  Spamihilator between mail client and provider.
• Don’t open mails from unknown senders.

PROTECTING APPLICATIONS:

• Always use the latest version.
• Activate the function for automatic
  updates– if available.
• Use UpdateStar without auto-update.
• Search for alternatives for an application that offer more security.
• Don’t install any beta versions.
• Replace beta versions with fully developed versions – if available.

HARDWARE HACKERS:

• Don't give unlimited administrator rights to other users.
• Protect the BIOS using passwords.
• Prohibit booting of the PC through CD drives, USB sticks and networks in the BIOS.
• Encode the system hard disk.
• Monitor all existing

MORE SECURITY FOR THE BROWSER:

• Use a limited user account for surfing.
• Use secure alternatives for Internet
  Explorer, for instance, Firefox.
• Run JavaScript and deactivate ActiveX in the browser
• Activate phishing protection, pop-up blocker, proxy server and—if available additional protection functions.

IN NUTSHELL

• Security software: anti-virus, anti-spyware and a firewall or security suite that includes all three. This is like keeping your doors and windows locked at home.
• Keeping your computer up to date, blocking spam emails and using an up to date web browser will make it harder for them to get into your PC in the first place.
• Making a regular backup of your music, pictures and other files is also a good idea..
• It’s also a good idea not to use your computer in administrator mode. It’s better to make a user account and log in with that for day-to-day use. In Microsoft Windows Vista, keep User Account Control switched on.
• Protect yourself against eavesdroppers and freeloaders by using encryption on your wireless network.