Small Business Tech Tips

As a remote provider of IT services, it is our job to fix problems that our clients encounter with their technology. However, after doing this for six years now, I’ve noticed that many of the issues that we end up troubleshooting are very preventable. In fact, there are several effortless things that every computer user can do to increase their PC’s online safety.

1. It’s OK to be suspicious – Be very picky about the sources you’re downloading files from off of the internet. Using an extra cautious eye here may save you from being the victim of worms, viruses, and Trojan horses. Many people fail to realize that email is actually the source of most of these bad boys.

2. Scan Scan Scan - Scanning is your friend. Be sure to scan all discs and downloads, checking for viruses before you run them.

3. Prepare for danger – Install anti-virus software programs on all computers right from the beginning. Also, make sure your PC has been updated with the most current updates and patches available.

4. Learn what’s out there - Every so often, it’s a good idea to do a quick search and read up on the internet viruses and worms that are currently out there causing the most trouble. By being aware of the types of things that could potentially infect your PC, you’ll know what definitely NOT to click, and also see pattern trends in the types of crafty things hackers attempt to pull off. You’ll become both more computer savvy AND more likely to steer clear from future computer woes.

5. Think before you type – No legitimate bank, or any other company for that matter, will ask you for personal information over an instant message or via a pop up. A good rule of thumb both online and in life, if something seems fishy, it most likely is. Don’t give out any info that you’re not 100% sure will be safe. And if you encounter something funny on your PC, contact your IT support provider immediately.

Josh Clifford
Chief Service Officer
Everon Technology Services

Technorati Tags: computer viruses, email safety, PC protection, PC safety, PC safety online, protecting your PC, scanning, virus prevention, virus safety

Tags: computer viruses, email safety, PC protection, PC safety, PC safety online, protecting your PC, scanning, virus prevention, virus safety

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 9th, 2009 at 6:19 am and is filed under Small Business Security Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.