ProExe Security tips:

1. Never reveal passwords or PINs to callers or to unsolicited e-mails, known as phishing.
   
   
2. Protect and use dedicated software to manage all your internet logins and secure precious financial data. ProExe recommends RoboForm.
   
   
3. Use hard-to-guess passwords and keep them private. Do not write passwords down on small pieces of paper taped to your computer. You would be surprised how many people are sloppy about keeping their passwords private. Passwords that are easy to-guess are a bad choice. Change your passwords regularly and don't give your passwords to anyone! Tell your family that combinations of letters, numbers and symbols are harder to crack than just words. RoboForm can generate highly secure passwords for you.
   
   
4. Only ever use a protected computer with up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall.
   
   
5. Email protection. Use an anti-spam program that scans all incoming messages. MailSentry automatically scans for both Spam and Viruses before the email even reaches your PC, as it runs directly on your mailserver.
   
   
6. Keep your cards and card details safe.  Most internet fraud happens because card details are physically stolen.
   
   
7. Only shop at secure websites.  Ensure the security icon - the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol - is showing.
   
   
8. Check your statements as soon as you receive them.  If you find a transaction you did not make, contact your bank immediately.
   
   
9. Back-up your computer data regularly. ProExe's Remote Back-up facility securely backup and encrypts you precious data, before storing it safely offsite.
   
   
10. Make sure your PC settings use the highest level of security - not just the default ones.
    
    
11. Print out your order.  When shopping online make sure you get a hard copy of your order form and the retailer's terms and conditions.
    
    
12. You did back-up didn't you?
    
    
13. Implement a Disaster Recovery Plan. No matter how good your disaster recovery plan, it cannot recover data if you neglect to back it up.
    
    
14. Regularly download security protection update "patches". Security flaws are regularly found in operating systems and application software. Companies that make software release quick fixes called "patches" that you should install to correct the latest software flaw. It is a good idea to check for security updates on the publisher's Web site for all the software you own.
    
    
15. Windows XP's Automatic Updates feature will download and install critical security updates and service packs only. To obtain non-critical updates, use IE to visit the Microsoft Update website.
    
    
16. Wireless security.  Encryption is the number one security measure. Use WPA instead of WEP where possible. Change the default administrative password. Turn off SSID broadcasting. Change the default SSID. Use MAC filtering.
    

Summary:

Use Common Sense. As with most things in life, using common sense when using your PC is a good idea.

Don't open any email that comes from an unexpected source, your Bank is more likely to phone you to discuss your account than email you. Never reveal your bank account details, credit card details, or computer password, unless you can be sure that the request is legitimate (if in doubt, do not give the information). Finally never use the CD draw as a coffee cup holder!