consult www.nipc.gov for more information
Use strong passwords. Choose passwords that are difficult or impossible
to guess. Give different passwords to all accounts.
Make regular backups of critical data. Backups must be made at least
once each day. Larger organizations should perform a full backup weekly and
incremental backups every day. At least once a month the backup media should
be verified.
Use virus protection software. That means four things: having it on
your computer in the first place, checking x-times daily for new virus signature
updates, enabling the "real-time" protection feature (how else could
it ever stop a virus attached to an email?), and then actually scanning all
the files on your computer nightly.
Use a firewall as a gatekeeper between your computer and the Internet.
Make sure it is configured properly (consult a professional, then do a "port
scan" from the outside to be sure it's properly protecting you.) They are
essential for those who keep their computers online through the popular DSL
and cable modem connections but they are also valuable for those who still dial
in.
Do not keep computers online when not in use. Either shut them off
or physically disconnect them from Internet connection.
Do not open email attachments from strangers, regardless of how enticing
the Subject Line or attachment may be. Be suspicious of any unexpected email
attachment from someone you do know because it may have been sent without that
person’s knowledge from an infected machine.
Regularly download security patches from your software vendors.
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