PC-Armor Computer Security News Blog » Quick Tips

Do you really want others viewing your files?

blog — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 02:20:01 +0000

By default, “Simple File Sharing” is enabled in both versions of Windows XP; but in the Professional Version, you have the option of turning it off. With “Simple File Sharing” left on, you are allowing other people access to your files and you may have some files that you simply do not want anyone else to see.

The good news is that if you have XP Professional, you can turn this feature off; but for the Home version, it cannot be turned off. Not all hope is lost though; this Microsoft article shows you how you can make your folders private in either version:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/304040

Add more than one Favorite Site to IE7

blog — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 18:06:24 +0000

Do you commonly open the same pages each day? If so, Microsoft’s Internet Explorer v. 7 gives you the ability to add more than one web site to your home page. (more…)

Keep Sensitive Information Safe!

blog — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 04:16:28 +0000

Do you use your computer for business or work? If so, it would be a good idea to not surf the Internet with that computer. Most work computers contain sensitive information and by having them connected to the Internet, you are at risk of exposing that sensitive data to malicious individuals!

A wiser option would be purchasing an eMachine, which is usually inexpensive compared to other computers, and designate this computer for your Internet surfing activities, research, and e-mail. Of course, you should ensure all your computers are protected with reputable Anti-virus, Anti-spyware, and firewall programs; as well as a router/firewall switch.

Separating your business and personal computer usage will go a long way in protecting sensitive information which has been entrusted to you…

Are your Virus Definitions up to date?

blog — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 03:17:39 +0000

In order for anti-virus programs to remain effective, the virus definitions must always be kept up-to-date. You should check your virus definitions regularly to ensure your anti-virus program is updating them as it should and if it is not, contact your anti-virus vendor for technical assistance.

Another important step in maintaining your computer’s security health would be to schedule weekly virus scans of your computer and if any viruses are found, disinfect or delete them immediately. If your anti-virus program finds viruses and is unable to clean them, you may need to contact your anti-virus technical support for assistance. If they cannot help you remediate the infection, you might consider trying other anti-virus programs and if that fails, you may have no option but to erase your hard drive and reinstall everything. Make sure you have a reliable backup of all your important data before you proceed with a reinstallation of your operating system.

Lock your computer when you leave…

blog — Sun, 07 Jan 2007 04:59:18 +0000

Whenever you leave your Windows-based computer for more than a minute or two, it would be a good idea to lock it so others cannot “jump” on and do whatever they wish under your login rights. (more…)