6.1       Better Safe Surfing Than Sorry

For the time being, Internet Explorer is targeted much more than Netscape or Mozilla Firefox. Although some people insist on using Explorer, these other two web browsers do pretty much everything that Explorer does, plus they are a lot safer, at least for now. Some experts think that since Mozilla is getting a growing share of the browser market, that it’s only a matter of time before spyware infests it, too. For right now, however, it’s worth a try. It can do most browsing that you can do on Explorer and it’s still safer.

1.                  When in doubt, delete. Never open spam or any email or any attachment from a stranger. In addition to viruses, RATS and other programs can be present in e-mail attachments. Web sites advertised in unsolicited e-mail can try to plant dialers or other types of pests on your computer.

2.                  Adjust your settings. If you are using Outlook or Outlook Express, consider disabling the preview pane.  There has been some cause for concern that this gives viruses an opening. Others insist that it’s more important to keep up with patches and security fixes.

3.                  Downloading danger. Be careful what you download. Read all the dialogue boxes carefully and don’t hesitate to close it if it looks suspicious.

4.                  What you view. If you visit the less traveled or less reputable sites (i.e., porn or sites that offer shady deals), you need to take extra care of your machine.

5.                  Installing software from the internet. Just say no if asked to install software when browsing. Also, be suspicious of free software. Remember, there’s always a catch.

6.                  Closing Pop-ups. When you close those pesky pop-ups or dialogue boxes, be absolutely certain you’re clicking on the right “X”.  Unfortunately, some of these ads have a fake “X” – one that leads you to the ad itself and potential spyware or adware. To be perfectly safe, right click on the window in your taskbar and click it closed that way.

7.                  Security Alerts. As mentioned in an earlier section, some ads try to tell you that your computer is at risk, or that it’s running slower than usual and they can fix that problem. They’re lying. Click them away carefully as instructed above.                        

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