Install anti-virus software You can help protect your computer from viruses that could damage your computer or your programmes by installing antivirus software. To maximise your protection, update your anti-virus software regularly to make sure you always have the latest viruses definition.

Install a personal firewall Firewall software and/or hardware helps provide a protective shield between your computer and the Internet. This barrier can help prevent unauthorised people gaining access to your computer, reading information from it or placing viruses on it while you are connected to the Internet.

Install anti-spyware software Spyware is a general term for hidden programs on your computer that track what you are doing on your computer. Spyware is often bundled together with file sharing, email virus checking or browser accelerator programs, and it is installed on your PC without your knowledge to intercept information about you and your computer. The type of information gathered can include personal Internet usage, and in some instances, confidential data such as passwords. You can download and run a specialist program designed to help identify and remove threats from spyware. Like an anti-virus program, it also needs to be regularly updated in order to recognise the latest threats.

Keep your browser and operating system up-to-date. From time to time security weaknesses or bugs are found in browsers and operating systems. Usually 'Service Packs' are issued by the software company to make sure these are fixed as quickly as possible. You should make regular checks on your software vendor’s website and apply any new security patches as soon as possible to ensure you have the most updated security features available.

For Internet Explorer and Windows go to:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/critical/default.asp

For Netscape Navigator go to:

http://channels.netscape.com/ns/browsers/security.jsp

For Firefox go to:

http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/

For Safari and Mac OS go to:

http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/

Avoid running programs or opening email attachments from any source you don't know or trust You should not install software or download any files from websites (e.g. programmes, games, screensavers) that you aren't completely sure about. We also recommend that you scan all email attachments for viruses and avoid opening any from people or organisations that you do not know or trust. However some virus’s forward infected mail to entries in an address book - therefore you can also get an infected attachment from someone you do know. If you are unsure what an attachment is, no matter the source – do not open it.

Be cautious when using public or shared computers/networks If you access your accounts using a computer in a cyber café, a library or your workplace, try to ensure the computer has the latest antivirus, firewall, antispyware and browser software installed. Although wi-fi is a convenient way for you to go to the Internet, it is not adviseable to access your account via wi-fi connection especially in public places like airports, hotels or shopping malls.