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By Deirdre Crossan
Be a smart email user: Email is fraught with potential security risks. In fact, most security threats are spread by email. Even if you have an antivirus solution in place, occasionally an infected message will manage to get through. Some tips: Don't use the preview pane function in your email program and never open attachments in emails from strangers. Even if you recognize the sender's name, carefully scrutinize attachments before opening. Don't open attachments which end with unusual extensions.
Spam is also a prevalent problem. Don't open junk mail. Do not reply to unsolicited emails. Don't unsubscribe, since it only lets the spammers know that you have received their message. This is a signal to them to send more.
Be aware of phishing scams. These are legitimate looking messages that claim to be from businesses such as banks. They try to get you to divulge your personal information. Do not perpetuate spam by forwarding virus warnings and chain letters you receive via email.
Be alert when browsing the Web: Enable the security settings on your Web browser. These usually can found in the "Preferences" menu. Do not enable file sharing, which can open the door to viruses and intrusion. Be very cautious when giving out personal information online. Even though a Web site claims to be secure, if you don’t see a small padlock or key icon in the toolbar and the URL doesn't begin with https: (rather than http:), don't trust it. The page is not secure, and the information you provide will not be encrypted and thus will be vulnerable to interception. And whatever you do, do not click on pop-up advertisements.
Use antivirus software: Antivirus software is still the best way to protect against viruses, worms and Trojan horses. Antivirus software should be installed on all servers, desktops, and laptops – including devices used to make remote connections to your network. Furthermore, simply having the antivirus software installed is not enough. For maximum protection, check for new virus definitions daily, and also perform weekly system scans.
Use a firewall: Think about all of the important and sensitive information that lives in your small business network. Did you know that whenever you connect a computer to the Internet, a pipeline directly into your network opens up? Without a firewall, you are putting that information at risk. A firewall is essentially a protective wall around your network that keeps the information inside private and secure by constantly monitoring all data flowing in and out for irregularities or signs of trouble.
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