How safe is your computer?

Top tips

Keep software up to date.

We've seen that an unprotected PC connected to the internet will become infected in a matter of minutes. Before you go online, there are a few things you have to do to make sure your machine and information aren't easy targets for a cyber attack.

Nothing can guarantee your computer's security 100 per cent, but you can ensure that you don't make it easy for those looking for a way in.

Here is a top five must-have list for your computer before you head online. But it isn't enough to keep your machine safe in this constantly evolving internet environment. Following the top five is a list of "safe practices" to help minimize the threat to your machine and information.

Install anti-virus software and update regularly. There are viruses, Trojan horses and worms out there that change day to day. One of the biggest mistakes people can make after installing an anti-virus software is assuming their computer is now safe. An outdated anti-virus is no protection at all. The program has to be updated so that it can recognize new variants of existing viruses. You can configure your anti-virus software to boot automatically on start-up and run at all times. What's the difference between a virus, a worm and a Trojan horse? Find out in our glossary. Install a firewall. A firewall acts as a barrier between your home computer and the internet. It can help screen out unauthorized access and can log attempts to enter your system. For home users, a firewall can be a software program running on the computer, a hardware device that plugs in between your modem and your computer or network, or a combination of both. A firewall will help protect you from inbound attacks, but they can do little or nothing to detect e-mails containing viruses or block spyware and adware – programs that can send data from your computer to the outside world. Keep your operating system up to date. Download security updates and patches for operating systems regularly. The popularity of Windows has made it a prime target for hackers – regular updates is a must. Security holes in a program may expose your computer to outside threats. Check for latest vulnerabilities and patches. You can also set your operating system to update automatically. Spyware scanners Spyware is a general term for programs that could monitor your computer use, or look for personal data stored on your computer. It can be installed on your computer without your knowledge, sometimes through free programs downloaded from the internet, or peer-to-peer file sharing. Some spyware can hijack your home page or redirect your web searches. Others cause pop-up ads out of the blue. At the very least, these programs slow down your computer, and at their worst, other types of spyware can record a user's keystrokes and gain access to passwords and financial information. Find out more on spyware in our Protect your information section. Secure wireless network Not securing your wireless network is akin to leaving your front door wide open for anyone to walk in. Even if you have a firewall, but do not protect the wireless end of your system, anyone will be able to access your computer or network. Someone with malicious intent can use your internet connection to attack other systems, or download illegal material such as child pornography. Find out how to secure your wireless network in our Protect your information section.