Around Town - Tech Tips

Always download and install critical software updates and patches for your operating system, and turn on automatic updating such as the Windows automatic update feature. Carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement, before installing anything on your computer.
Install Anti-Virus Software (AVS), and frequently download the most recent updated virus definitions, engines and software to ensure your virus program remains effective.
Install and use a personal firewall such as the Windows Firewall which comes with Windows XP SP 2, or the built-in firewalls in MacOS X and Linux.
Avoid disreputable web sites and do not use illegal or "pirated" software. (Only use shareware or public-domain software when you have scanned the programs with your AVS and are absolutely sure they are virus-free.)
Do not open e-mail attachments unless you are expecting an attachment from someone you know and trust.
Keep your user IDs and passwords confidential--do not share them with anyone or use them in front of others. In addition, do not allow anyone to use your computer while you are logged on. Do not remain logged onto computers in public areas which you leave unattended for any periof of time
Create strong, effective passwords of 8 characters or more, using different passwords for each system to which you have access and changing your passwords every three months. Commit your passwords to memory--do not write them down or store them where others might gain easy access to them. (If you have difficulty remembering your passwords, consider installing an application such as Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) or GNU Privacy Guard (GnuPG) to secure your list of passwords with a common password.)
Use a secure web browsing program such as FireFox, and enable strong security and privacy settings including the use of a pop-up blocker.
Set up your e-mail filters to delete or file spam messages. You should delete spam messages unopened (Do not respond to spam, or follow any of the instructions in the spam to “unsubscribe” online or to call a phone number).
Back up your data to CDs or another storage medium on a regular basis. If you are the victim of a security incident, the only guaranteed way to repair your computer is to erase and re-install your whole machine.

Top 10 Computer Security Tips