With respect to computer security, many of us live in a bubble of blissful ignorance. We might be alert and not open email attachments from people you do not know, we could take care to ensure e-commerce site is safe before entering our credit card information, or could even go so far as to install a standard firewall on our computers. Unfortunately, much of common sense tips to follow when it comes to Internet security does little to combat cyber-crime is widespread.

Federal Trade Commission

Even the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, a government agency that is designed to help consumers, had to issue a press release stating that "Consumers, including corporate executives and banking, seem to be the targets of a bogus email supposedly sent by the Federal Communications Commission but actually sent by third parties hoping to install spyware on computers. "

There is no doubt that the attacks of spyware, malware and viruses insidious than any computer with Internet access vulnerable. But because not all breaches of Internet security are immediately apparent, people are not aware that their calculation, apparently without problems is the opposite. The Federal Trade Commission offers seven guidelines to help consumers surf the Web safely:

1. Protect your personal information. For example, when shopping on e-commerce site, make sure that the page where you enter your personal information is secure, as noted by "https" before the URL. It is important to stop identity theft before it starts.

2. Know before you click. For example, many of the cyber-criminals posing as legitimate businesses, or send "phishing" e-mail that asks you to click a hyperlink. Check out the online merchants and never click on links sent by email unless you are sure of the source.

3. Update antivirus, antispyware, firewall and software often. Hackers and others who engage in cybercrime seem to be always one step ahead of the good. If protection equipment is outdated, you are vulnerable.

4. Use the web browser and operating system functions safely. Make sure your browser settings to give optimum privacy and security, and ensure that you regularly update your operating system to take advantage of security patches.

5. Protect your passwords. For example, create a unique password for every site you visit and keep in a safe place. use letter, number and symbol combinations that can outsmart automated programs to detect passwords.

6. Always make backups. If your computer gets a virus or worm, the files can be Goners. Be sure to back up your important files and store them in a safe place.

7. Prepare for emergencies. If something goes wrong, such as your computer is infected or hacked, or you accidentally disclose personal information, to know what courses of action to be taken to remedy the situation and prevent further problems.

A hassle-free solution

Protecting your computer from all threats in cyberspace may seem full time job. Fortunately, there are companies that do business to provide individuals and businesses the most technologically advanced solutions available security. The best of them offer computer maintenance services, complete system optimization, troubleshooting and repair, installation assistance, and a full complement of security services managed by professionals. Usually, you pay a small monthly subscription fee and in turn can surf the Web, knowing that the computer is locked and you never have to be aware of the latest security software or terminal your computer to a repair center high price.