Checklist for computer safety

Go through our checklist to ensure you are safe online.

Software

• Ensure that the operating system on your computer is updated automatically
• Always say yes to updates of programs that you know, and that you have already installed on your computer
• Install an anti-virus program
• Ensure that you have a firewall
• Think of what types of websites you visit and what you download, and never install unfamiliar programs

Passwords and login

• Secure your computer with a password so that is locked to strangers
• The password should contain at least eight characters in random order.
• Use all types of characters in the passwords, capital and lower case letters, numbers and special signs.
• Never chose a password that can be linked back to you, like names of children, pets or social security number.
• Avoid often-used words like “summer” or “password”.
• If logged in, always log out from a website when you are finished.
• Do not leave your computer in your car or other places where it is easily stolen.