General Security Advice

Surely every fraudster knows that an individual's security is only as good as it's weakest point. Using a selection of tools and tricks, personal data can often be easily compromised where there is only one flimsy layer of protection. It is important then, to have a broad strategy of defence.

Implementing an array of security measures is key to thwarting would-be attackers. By adding extra layers, such as, anti-virus and anti-spyware software, a firewall, passwords, access control, you are creating as set of time-consuming obstacles that will discourage an attack.

But sometimes, the best form of defence is overlooked - knowledge and experience. If you know what to look out for you can avoid problems before they have any drastic affect. (Trusted Partners - Rits Security Group)

This section aims to give users a broad insight into some of the dirty tricks of the online scam trade.

Security Setup for Your PC

	Install and scan It is essential, form the outset, to confirm a clean bill of health for your computer. It is strongly advised to install all security software (antivirus, antispyware) and a firewall first, before you set up an internet connection. Most new computers come with a step-by-step guide or pre-installed applications which allow you configure your system in a quick and easy manner.
	Schedule automatic scans Run a full system scan initially to ensure your computer is clean and schedule subsequent scans to run daily. Please note: running a scan can seriously slow your system so it is a good idea to do this at a time of low activity.
	Schedule updates Make sure that you schedule updates to run first, before your computer is scanned so that your software is completely up-to-date. New security threats are detected on an almost daily basis. Unless you have these updates you are scanning for last weeks or even last months vulnerabilities.
	Monitor alarm and message logs It is also advisable to check the logs to ensure that they are running correctly. Automatic updates and scans run in the background and let you get on with your activities. However, this convenience can result in you missing an important warning or failure with your software.
	Take immediate action It is worth remembering that when you see a warning it is always advisable to take immediate action. Continuing to work with an infected computer can lead to further infection to you and others. The chances of further vulnerabilities being exploited once a computer has been compromised are greatly increased with time.
	Heading Don't forget - there is no stronger line of defence than an informed user. If you are worried about your security, try to get an understanding of the threats and solutions. In many cases, a little experience can be extremely effective in reducing the risk of attack.