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Here
are just a few Hints and Tips that I normally offer to students, as they are
introduced to the world of computers and the internet - the degree of attention you may
wish to pay to these factors will depend on how seriously you get into computers and how dependant you are on the information you are
keeping on the machine. Don’t
be worried though, computers and the internet are there to be enjoyed - being well
informed and aware, like anything else, is all part of it.
These Hints and Tips are not intended in any way to be a comprehensive
listing, they are provided solely as a helpful overview. There are many
web sites on the internet and organisations specifically offering
professional advice on these subjects and many other related issues, in a
more detailed and
comprehensive format, if you are interested to learn more. A useful starting
point to combating security threats and many other issues are the Government's websites:
www.getsafeonline.org and
www.itsafe.gov.uk
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Use
the 'Save As' command to save and provide a file name for new work, as you
start.
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Save
your work at frequent intervals thereafter.
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Keep
at least one current back-up or copy of all your important work in a safe place away
from your computer - check the back-up from time to time, on your own
computer and someone else's computer.
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If
you are using Windows Me, Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 operating systems, set a new system
restore point prior to installing software or making changes to the
computers settings etc. When the computer is working sweetly, it's worth
making a new system restore point anyway.
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Keep
the original CDs supplied with your computer and those for any other
computer related equipment or programmes you may have purchased, safely in a
storage pouch.
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It is
prudent to install a surge protector on the electrical supply to your
computer and other computer equipment - one that will also protect the phone
/ data line to the computer.
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Always run a comprehensive anti-virus package - one that keeps itself up to
date or can be updated, while you are working on the internet. (see note 1
below)
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Run
the anti-virus scan on your computer as frequently as possible.
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Install an internet firewall programme from the same stable as the
anti-virus programme, again one with a live update facility. The firewall that comes with Windows XP provides a
degree of protection, while Vista's & Windows 7 firewalls are better still. (see note 1 below)
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There
are now several comprehensive 'Internet Security' programmes available which
include anti-virus, firewall & additional protection areas, all in one package.
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Use the Microsoft internet update service regularly to keep the security
aspects of your computer's Microsoft programmes current.
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Install a programme to help counter Spyware
and similar
threats - there are several available, Spyware Doctor from:
www.pctools.com and Microsoft's
Windows Defender, are just two - use the
built-in internet update facilities to keep the scanner current. (see note 1 below)
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If
you have a 'pay as you surf' dial-up type internet connection, when
the phone line is in use, your call charges are active - it's also worth
noting that off-peak usage can be considerably cheaper. Normally when the
call charges are active, the
condition is confirmed with a small icon (two computers) which will be
visible in the bottom right hand corner of the screen.
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If
you intend to use a credit card to buy stuff over the internet, it is worth
considering getting a separate credit card just for internet use. Check with
the issuing bank, that they will clearly accept liability should the card be
fraudulently used while carrying out transactions on the internet.
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Also,
only provide your credit card details and other such personal information on
a secure web site. A secure web site can be identified with a small closed padlock
icon on the screen and the prefix to the
website changing to https rather than the standard http. When visiting a web site
where you intend to carry out a financial transaction it's wise to open a
new browser window and carefully
type in the web site address - don't click on a link, to go
there.
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It is
also prudent to only provide your credit card number and other such personal
information to web sites which are known to you and preferably have their
headquarters address in the UK - certainly organisations that physically
exists and can be contacted by telephone. It's a good idea to take a print
of the important information during an on-line transaction in case you need
to phone the supplier afterwards.
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When
on the internet, think carefully if asked to provide your credit card
details or other personal information, such as your name, email or home
address etc - why do they need this information.
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Unwanted emails know as junk mail or spam together with phishing techniques are an increasing
problem: here are just a few points worth keeping in mind - don't
click on links in emails from unknown senders or show any interest in any
'great offers' - if the email is unwanted, don't accept any offer to 'unsubscribe',
just delete the unwanted email. Never type in your password, login or
username in response to an email or on-screen form, even if it seems to be from a trusted
source
Note 1: AOL users should follow the advice provided by AOL on these subjects
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