Steps to Security for User-managed PCs

• Install Windows Updates (patches) to guard against network worms (programs that install themselves so they can do damage)
• Install a virus checker and set it to scan your whole hard disk at least weekly
• Consider if you need a personal firewall
• Consider Spyware removal
• BACKUP!

What are Windows updates, & why do I need them?

• Hackers and criminals keep finding problems in Windows they can exploit, so Microsoft need to keep updating it.
• Updates address known issues and help protect against known security threats which have been discovered since Windows was released.
• Updates can be downloaded automatically, though some updates require you to accept an End User License Agreement (EULA), or restart your computer after installation.

Microsoft Updates

• Unimportant for old versions (pre Windows 2000)
• Use the Microsoft Update Web site at http://update.microsoft.com. and follow the instructions there

Windows Updates – Automatic?

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• You can use the Update icon on the Start Menu..see picture 1.
• Your PC can be set up to do this ITSELF
• Find the Windows Update icon in the Control Panel..see picture 2.
• Configure the updater - set it to run DAILY

Virus Checkers

• Ensure the virus checker is running all the time
• Set it to scan your hard disk at least WEEKLY
• Use it to remove any viruses detected – and if you can’t, get help
• DON’T automatically open attachments

What are Spyware and Adware?

• Spyware is software that sends your personal information to a third party without your permission or knowledge (Web sites you visit, even sometimes user names and passwords)
• Adware is software that displays advertisements on your computer. They can inexplicably pop up on your display screen, even if you're not browsing the Internet.

Do they matter?

• Adware can cause performance issues
• Internet Explorer might not work properly
• Your PC might hang and crash
• Your PC might slow down
• Spyware can be used by criminal gangs to
• Steal your identity
• Raid your Bank Accounts

What should I do?

• DON’T download free software from the Internet until you know what it is
• Be particularly careful with Internet Relay Chat and ‘Messenger’ type programs.
• Scan often for spyware – daily?
• If not using IE7, consider a pop-up blocker to prevent adware and spyware pop-up windows (Google?)
• Update to IE 7 for Windows XP

Backup

• Every hard disk has a mean time to fail
• Physical Failure
• Electronic Failure
• Data retrieval is expensive – and may be impossible.
• Only back up DATA, not programs
• If your data has value, BACK IT UP!
• CD/DVD
• USB Drive
• Test your backup
• Store your backup off-site!