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Saturday, November 30, 2013

Cyber Monday survival guide Part 2

This is part 2 of my 2 part series.

For Part 1, go here: http://malwareaware.blogspot.com/2013/11/cyber-monday-survival-guide-part-1.html

Tip #5: Scan the computer you are using for malware.
If the computer you are using is already compromised, you might as well broadcast your personal information. Making sure that the computer is clean puts the odds back in your favor.

Tip #6: Use strong passwords.
Using strong passwords will make it harder for cybercriminals to break into your accounts. And I have talked about strong and secure passwords before.

Tip #7: Avoid strange computers whenever possible.
Computers are a bit like public restrooms. If it is not yours or you do not know who has been in, you don't know what has been going on. Which is one of the reasons why I am afraid of public restrooms.
Even worse with computers. People cannot install malware onto a toilet (yet).

Tip #8: Beware of fake deals you get in your inbox.
Unless you are on a company's emailing list, or you have bought from them, you should not be getting offers from them in an email. This advice also applies to social media websites. And do not fall for coupon scams that ask for personal info in exchange for a chance to win some big prize.

Tip #9: Trust your intuition.
You know what they say: If it looks, sounds, or feels too good to be true, it probably is. This advice should not be lost on anyone. If something just does not feel right to you, it is at least worth a closer look. By doing this, the most you have to lose is a few minutes of your time, while you stand to gain the knowledge to make the right choice.

Tip #10: Delete your internet history.
Remember how you said that you were going to be "napping"? If anyone in your family is a cyber detective like me, you are likely going to want to keep all this from them.
In Firefox: Click on the orange Firefox tab in the upper left hand corner, then go to history, then click clear recent history. Make sure all checkboxes in the new window are checked, and set it for however long you have been "napping".

Google Chrome: Go to your History in the options icon in the upper right hand corner, then click clear history.
Internet Explorer: Click on the options cog in the upper right hand corner, then go over to safety, then click Clear Browser History, then make sure all checkboxes are checked with the exception of preserving your favorite websites.

Please tread carefully if you are using a computer that is not yours. And by and large, the true decision of what to delete and what to leave blank is to be made on a case by case basis.

Thank you for reading. I invite readers to comment with any questions or comments.

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