• Keep it patched-automatically when possible
• Use antivirus protection- with automatic updates
• Eliminate spyware with regular spyware scans
• Create a complex password
• Encrypt all important files
• Use a password protected screensaver, or logout whenever you leave
• Set-up a firewall

Be ready and prepare for emergencies...

• Back-up your files (CD, Zip drives, flash drives, etc....keep them in a safe place)
• Keep your original CDs available for reinstallation in case of compromise

Be proactive

• Beware of emails with attachments. There are numerous forms of malware that have been unleashed by no more than visiting a website linked through an email.
• Do not open a link embedded in an email. They can be phishing sites.
• When discarding an old computer, wipe the drive clean. Studies have shown that it's easy to get personal information from discarded computers.
• Online banking is convenient and easy. Make sure your bank has a zero liability policy (replacing any stolen funds as a result of identity fraud if the bank's system was breached.). The main problem with online banking is email. Beware of email phishing attacks...be very suspicious of banks or any financial institution providing a link and/or asking for your personal information. Phishing sites can be very convincing.
• Browse through the newsletters to get an idea of the latest scams and compromises.
  

Privacy

• Keep private information private. Social networks (MySpace, Face Book, etc.) are great places to keep in touch, but be sure you know who you're talking to, and keep in mind that anyone can be 'listening'.
• Information you supply on the web may not be secure. Check for the https:// (rather than http://) in the URL, the 's' is for secure. There are still numerous websites asking you to logon insecurely.
• For more information on privacy and protecting your personal information and identity visit our Non-Public Personal Information (NPPI) site