Virus Protection - always use a proven virus protection software and perform updates regularly.
Malware Protection - regularly scan with a trusted Malware tool - the best virus protectors do not protect from all malware.
Online Shopping - do not perform internet banking or online shopping on a shared computer - especially in internet cafes or on public WiFi hotspots.
Passwords - make passwords hard to guess - the longer the password is the harder it is to crack. Do not give your password to anybody else. Regularly change your password.
Browsers - using the latest version of your browser will give you added protection. Always close your browser after logging out. We recommend the following browsers: Chrome Firefox Safari Internet Explorer
Backup data - ensure that you take regular backups of important data - if your computer does get compromised you can restore this. This is critical in the case of the crypto virus attack.
Scams and Phishing - be wary of the latest scams and phishing techniques. Use caution when you receive phone calls, emails, SMS that request your personal or security details. You should never give them passwords or remote access to your computer. Protect your financial identity for more info.
Emails - do not open suspicious emails from unknown sources. Keep up to date with the latest scams. Visit Scam Watch for more info.
Phone Calls - Be wary of calls from poeple that you do not know and are not expecting, asking for personel information or access to your computer. If in doubt ask for a reference number and call the company from a number in a public phone directory to ensure it is genuine.
Bookmark important sites - like your bank and shopping sites, rather than typing in the url each time. Miss-spelling can take you somewhere nasty.
Check and report - check your bank statements and account records carefully in order to detect anything unusual. If you notice anything that does not look right or you don't recognise a transaction then report it to your bank immediately.
Downloads - when downloading free software always be extremely cautious of what you agree to install. Always opt for the custom installation and deselect anything that is not familiar, especially optional software that you never intended to download and install in the first place. Several PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) are installed in this way and some can have malicious traits.
