by Marilyn Martin

Created on: July 22, 2010

First of all, computer hackers are getting more sophisticated all the time.  And today they are employing tricks that can even get around your Security and Firewall.  Viruses can get into your computer thru seemingly-legit toolbars, games and game managers.  This makes it even more important for computer users to start being more vigilant.  I am not trained in computer technology, and am not very tech-oriented at all.  But I've learned a few tricks that everyone can benefit from.

CHECK YOUR COMPUTER' SECURITY EVERY MORNING

If your computer has Microsoft, open the button on the bottom left.  Type in "Printer" on the Search line provided.  Then open up your Printer file.  If you see any other printers attached to your computer than the one you bought or are using, delete them.  (Highlight, then drop File box and highlight Delete.)

While still in the MS functions, open the "Control Panel" on the left sidebar.  Check to see if your Secruity functions are all working.  Check for any Security Updates, and download any marked "Important".  (You may have to re-start your computer to have the updates "take".)

Open "Recent Items" on your left sidebar.  If you see files that have been opened, and you didn't open them, you need to take further action.   If you see files that stay in your Recent Items that you didn't think you even had on your computer, delete them.  (Highlight and hit your "Delete" key.)  I've found Spread Sheets and all sorts of unusual files I never put on my computer, in "Recent Items".

Then (still in the "Control Panel") open the sub-file for "Uninstall A Program".   Look for suspicious file names and/or huge downloads.  Sometimes bogus files piggyback into your legit files for your hardware or software.  If you don't remember downloading these files, delete them by highlighting and hitting "Uninstall".  Sometimes a bogus "Warning!" box will pop up, telling you that by deleting this, some function will be impaired.  If you don't recognize either the file or download date, and that function or program was working just fine before this (bogus) file popped up, continue with the Uninstall.

Finally, open your "Waste" icon, usually the one in the top left corner.  Sometimes bogus files are stashed there, and can be secretly opened to rummage thru your computer.  So, every morning, hit the "Empty Trash" button.

BETTER PASSWORD

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