14 DAY TRIAL // I think cyber-security awareness month should be every month, since people need a lot more education to stay safe online. However, this only happens in October, and only in the US - I sure wish it would be a global initiative, but unfortunately, cyber-security isn't yet given the importance it deserves. In any case, I've decided to visit some specialized sites, such as StaySafeOnline or Educase and summarize their content to give you some tips and tricks on security. You can even send this link to people you think should learn more about cyber-defenses.
The first important thing for you to know is that the web is a dangerous place. You may use it for good purposes, but that doesn't mean everybody else does the same. Hackers are out there and if you don't stay secure, they'll get to you!
The first thing you need to do is install software to keep you secure - Anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall. Keep those updated and also update your operating system. Protect your info - be careful what data you send and who you send it to. Ignore spam messages, no matter what profits they say they're going to bring you.
Another important thing is the use of strong passwords. I've said this before - change default passwords if applications offer them, and do not use simple ones that could be easily guessed. Under no circumstances use your name or account name as a password - that is insecure.
One of the most important things is making sure that even if you do get hacked this won't affect you too much. Keep a backup of important data - sore it on a CD or on a memory stick, or on any other means of stocking information that can be kept offline. Furthermore, if you are working with sensitive data, make sure it's encrypted, so that even if a hacker gains access to it, he won't be able to "read" it.
Always pay attention to how your computer acts. If you detect suspicious behavior that might be the work of a hacker interfering with your machine, tank out the cable that links your machine to the Internet. If you have identified an attack and "survived" it, make sure that thing does not happen again. Do not leave holes unpatched!
This was just a brief, but be my guest and visit any of the sites linked above if you feel that you don't know enough about cyber-security!