Protecting personal information on your computer is a difficult task. The computing environment is constantly changing. And along with it, the rules of security. Here are a number of excellent tips for protecting your private information.

1) Require a Password to Access the System
Most system allow you to bypass the need to log in to the system and take you straight to the operating system. This leaved your data vulnerable. Require at least a password to log in to the system. Adding a boot password is even better.

2) Create Good Password
Don't use easily guessed passwords. Avoid family names, birthdays, pets, etc. Make sure they are at least 8 characters long, contain letters, numbers, and symbols.

3) Remember Passwords
Remember the passwords that you create and do not write them down!

4) Change Passwords Often
Any password that is more than a month old increases the possibility that they will be guessed.

5) Use Unique Passwords
Do not use the same password for everything.

6) Encrypt the Data on your System
This included information on hard drives and especially USB drives. TrueCrypt is a great freeware option.

7) Install AntiVirus and AntiSpyware Software
These will help to protect your from known threats.

8) Update AntiVirus and AntiSpyware Software
This will help to detect newly discovered threats.

9) Install a Hardware Firewall on your Home Network
This will prevent criminals from getting in to your system.

10) Install a Software Firewall on your Computer
This will let you know if software is trying to get out of your system.

11) "Shred" Digital Data
Use a secure data deleter such as Eraser to properly wipe deleted data from your system.

12) Never Share Your Passwords
Not even with your best friend.

13) Never put Personal Information in E-Mail
E-mail can easily be read by people who it was not intended for.

14) Only Enter Personal Info on Websites with HTTPS Encryption
This will encrypt your data when it is traveling over the internet.

15) Clear Temp Files after Finished on Internet
This will prevent cached copies of the file from being user and exposing your data.

Learn more about this author, Tim Fehlman.
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