9 Steps to help in keeping your organization Secure

If the computer you use to run your online business is the same one your children use for homework and general surfing, this is potentially a very precarious circumstances.

The following are a few Anti-Hacking tips that will help in keeping your systems secure.

1. Install Anti-Virus software and ensure that it’s regularly updated.(If you do only one thing to help protect the safety of your computing environment, always take prompt advantage of software updates).
2. Anti-virus software isn’t enough - it’s also a good idea to install firewall (Good fences make good neighbors) software which will help prevent unauthorized incoming and outgoing communications from your computer while connected to the Internet.
3. Passwords protect the settings on the software so no-one else can alter protection levels. Most anti-virus programs also offer some protection against Trojans, which aren’t actually a virus, but a small program that allows others to control your computer.
4. Turn off your preview window in your email program. Some viruses, called worms, can infect your system without you clicking on attachments - just by you having your preview window open. Some worms can cause your sensitive information and documents to be transmitted to millions of people. Be very cautious in opening attachments, even if it appears to come from someone you know - their system may be infected.
5. Disconnect your computer from the Internet when not in use. The longer you are connected to the Internet, the more opportunity you give for persons to gain unauthorized access.
6. If your computer is used by others, carry out regular examination of the software on it and research any software that you discover that you haven’t installed yourself. It’s safest to make it a policy not to allow any software to be installed without your permission.
7. If you must store usernames and passwords on your system, ensure they are contained in a document that is password protected. It is safest not to store any passwords on your computer. Don’t let Windows “remember” passwords for you. Passwords should always be more than 8 characters long and include upper and lower case letters, numerals, symbols.
8. Ensure that you log out of online services properly. Failure to do so can allow others who use your computer to gain access to those services and you can be blamed for their activities.
9. Back up your files and store them away from your computer. Frequent backups just make good sense. The more virulent types of attacks damage or infect your hard drive and you can lose valuable personal information. By backing up your data weekly you can help protect your important files, computer settings, and irreplaceable digital media.