Spyware/Adware Precautions

Spyware is a program designed to track all of your computer activities, from which applications you use to which websites you visit. It often works in conjunction with viruses to record your keystrokes (such as account numbers, usernames, and passwords) and then transmit them back to an evildoer who may then use or sell the information. Adware is a program that pop-up various advertisements and offers, even when you are not connected to the Internet. These ads are independent from pop-up windows that appear when visiting specific websites.

Install and use spyware/adware protection software. You may download free spyware/adware protection software, purchase spyware/adware protection software, or use spyware/adware protection offered by your Internet service provider.
Many Internet service providers furnish popup protection. If it is provided, enable the protection.

Phishing Precautions

Phishing is malicious spam designed to lure people into providing confidential personal and financial information (credit card numbers, bank account numbers, PINs, Social Security Numbers, etc.). This information is then used to empty accounts and for identity theft. Some of these messages are appear legitimate, appearing as though they are coming from banks or credit card issuers. They may ask you to "verify" account information or may ask for help in transferring large sums of money, some of which, they claim, you may keep just for helping them.

Email from your financial institution will usually use your account name not a generic salutation. NEVER use an email link to connect to your financial institution, even if it is on a legitimate email. Always enter the address directly into your browser.

Surfing Precautions

Regularly empty your computer cache, cookies, and history.
The cache stores copies of web pages you visit, and all files associated with them, such as images, so the pages will load much faster the next time you visit. The cache also lets you view pages (minus some of their dynamic features, such as near-real-time stock quotes) while offline. However, the cache serves as a record of your Internet travels, so it should periodically be emptied. If a virus is embedded into the coding of a web page you visited, that virus will be downloaded into your cache. If you have high-speed Internet access, you may want to configure your browser not to store these files, or to empty the cache whenever you exit the browser.

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