Steps

  1. 1
    Set up password protection.

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    • Enable password protection on your computer if it is not already set up. Make sure you are using a personal password you have chosen versus the default password.
    • When creating your password, be sure to incorporate numbers or special characters to make it difficult for others to guess.
    • Change your password often, at least every 2 months.
    • Do not leave your password written down in a place where others can easily find it.
  2. 2
    Install a hardware or software firewall.
    • A hardware firewall will protect all the computers connected to the network and can often be set up through the network router.
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    • A software firewall requires you to install software that will protect only that specific computer.
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    3
    Install antivirus software or a spyware protection program.
    • To prevent hackers or other programs from spying on your Internet habits or collecting your passwords and credit card data, be sure to install antivirus software or spyware protection.
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    4
    Use caution when reading email.
    • Open email attachments only if you trust the party that sent it. Many times, email attachments will house viruses and malicious spyware that will allow unauthorized access to your computer.
    • Ignore or delete phishing emails, which are email messages that masquerade as official emails from your bank or shipping companies that want you to divulge sensitive and private information; such as your social security number, passwords and more.
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    5
    Learn how to lock your computer. If you need to step away from your computer for a break and want to keep it powered on, lock your computer so it requires a password, preventing unauthorized access.
    • For Windows 7 users, go to the Start menu, select the right pointing area from the Shutdown category and select "Lock."
    • For Macintosh users, use keystrokes of "Shift," "Command," and the letter "q," pressing all buttons at the same time. You may also select "Log Out" from the Apple pull-down menu.
    • For Windows XP users, use keystrokes of "Ctrl," "Alt," and "Delete," pressing all buttons at the same time, and select "Lock Workstation."