Protect your PC:

• Always use licensed software.  Not only are pirated software illegal, they could be potentially harmful too! 
• Always ensure your PC has the latest security patches and service packs.  Hackers always try to exploit unprotected PCs to use them for illegal activities.  The easiest way to do this is to:
  1. Select Control Panel from Start Menu
  2. Select Automatic Updates
     1. Tick “Keep my computer up to date. With this setting enabled, Windows Update software may be automatically updated prior to applying any other updates”
     2. Select “Download the updates automatically and notify me when they are ready to be installed”
     3. Tick Apply
  3. Thereafter, whenever you see the following icon, click on it, and select OK to install the updates

• Always use an up to date Anti-Virus Software.   For a cheap option, go for AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition.
• Always use a Firewall to protect your PC.  If you are using broadband with a “Router”, your router may include firewall functions.  Refer to your firewall user-manual or a computer export on how to use it,
  • For a cheap alternative, you can try ZoneAlarm Personal Firewall.
• Always configure your firewall properly.  You are not going to be protected unless you have configured your firewall securely!
• Got an email with some strange attachments, free-gifts?  Don’t open it!! Even if it appears to be from your best mate, it could be a computer virus!  Some virus/trojan-horses have the capabilities of sending out emails with viruses/trojan-horses in your name!