5 Must Read Safety Tips For Surfing the Web
Who doesn't love the internet? With more than 1 billion users daily there is no doubt it is the most widely used form of communication in the world. Although as great as the internet might be it is not free from danger. The internet is peppered with viruses, spyware, Trojans, adware, phishing sites and pop ups. One wrong move can land your computer into computer heaven along with your credit card, identity and just about anything that matters. Fear not, there are a few safety precautions and tips you can take to reduce your chance of catching any nasty bugs or falling into any pitfalls and provide you with a more pleasant experience.1. Don't click on anything that asks you to install software on your computer when you are browsing a website -- unless you are fully aware what the software does. More often than not, the software programs are adware or spyware. These spyware and adware programs will deliver pop ups and spam to your computer, sometime the spam can be so bad you won't be able to close all the windows and pop ups before new ones appear.
2. Don't visit sites that are filled with banners and pop ups. Some websites have scripts that automatically install spyware and adware onto your computer whenever you visit their site. You won't know that you have adware or spyware until it's too late. Some of the dangerous websites are adult websites, wares sites and gambling sites. Just don't visit sites that offer free stuff that shouldn't be free.
3. When checking your email, don't open up any attachments from any unknown senders. Nasty tricksters will intentionally send you emails that have familiar headlines on them and tempt you to click and download the attachment. These attachments are often disguised and you won't know what they are until you open them. But when you do you can be installing viruses, spyware, adware or Trojans into your computer.
4. Don't submit your private information or email address to any website unless you are fully aware of what you are doing. Some website offer free prizes for your private information, but most of the time these are scams and are used to trick you into giving up your private information. Once they acquired this information they can either use it to steal your identity, commit cyber crimes or sell your information to other 3rd parties.
5. Online there are countless software programs for you to download for free; these programs are called freeware although they should not be confused with shareware. The problem with freeware programs is that sometimes these freeware programs contain secondary software that installs spyware and adware into your computer. If a freeware program asks you to install secondary software that is not related to the original program's purpose, uninstall the program immediately and send it to the recycling bin. There are many sites that offer freeware programs for download, some of the most reputable sources are Microsoft.com, Download.com and Cnet.com.
Browsing the internet is really enjoyable if you can navigate its dangers. One browser program you should always use is Mozilla Fire Fox. It comes with many highly effective features that keep you safe from many internet borne threats. Mozilla Fire Fox is the most widely used internet browser and is completely free for you to download. The browser is programmed by professionals and backed up by a large community forum that will help you with any questions or problems. Here is to you and an enjoyable and safe internet experience.
About the Author
Yao Feng is the Owner of SpywareLog.com a website dedicated to reviewing the top anti-spyware programs. For more information on the Top 5 Best Anti-spyware progrms please bisit http://www.SpywareLog.com
