Cyber Security: Staying safe online

Staying safe online
There are a number of things you can do to stay safe on the internet. Like almost all parts of life, although you hear terrible stories, most people never have serious problems online. By taking a few simple steps, you can make yourself and your computer much more secure.

 

Stay up to date
Out of date software is one of the biggest problems for computer users. Bugs that have been fixed in newer operating systems or applications may remain unresolved in previous versions, leaving you vulnerable. This is especially important in the case of operating systems, which are responsible for managing files and connecting to the internet.

At the time of writing, Microsoft supports Microsoft Windows Vista, 7 and 8 only; older versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system (including the very popular Windows XP) are either only receiving critical updates or are not supported at all. Apple supports versions of Mac OS from 10.6 (Snow Leopard) through to 10.9 (Mavericks), older versions of Mac OS are not receiving updates.

Many other applications, such as Microsoft Office, the Java programming language (used by a lot of websites), web browsers and so on, also require regular updating to fix security problems.



If you are using an old operating system that is not supported by its manufacturer, or if you need an application, but your current edition is out of date, it is well worth investing in updated software. First, though, check that your computer can run the updated software, if not, it might be time for a new computer.

Do the basics
The basic check list:

• set up a personal firewall
• install an antivirus program (remember, Macs do need antivirus protection)
• get used to making backups
• set up your computer to require passwords to log in and when unlocking the screen
• use hard disk encryption if you have it – especially on laptops.

It will take a couple of hours to perform these steps, but your computer will be significantly more secure.

 

Fix your email
Most email applications now come with junk mail screening. If it’s not already enabled – turn it on! Your mail program will scan incoming email looking for suspicious messages that might be trying to scam you – or are just annoying spam. It puts any suspect messages into a junk mail folder where you can examine them later, just in case any genuine messages were misfiled.

Most email programs will also let you train the screening process so that any messages that were missed can be treated as junk in the future.