1. Change Browsers

   Switch from Microsoft Internet Explorer to an alternative browser like Firefox or Opera
   (Mac Users, try Camino or Safari ) . Internet Explorer is a very vulnerable browser -- click here for more information.

2. Disable Bells and Whistles

If you cannot switch browsers, then disable all of the bells and whistles for unknown websites.This means the fancy drop-down menus, the scrolling text, the fancy flash sites, etc., all go away because they use the type of scripting that most malware and viruses use. If you really cannot live without those features, then you can make your use of them safer with a little work. Make use of the "Trusted Sites" in Internet Explorer . Internet Explorer has several zones available (Click on Tools/Internet Options then click on the "Security" tab). Most websites are in the "Internet Zone." What you need to do is set the Internet Zone to a really high setting (i.e. HIGH) or customize the settings so that Java, JavaScript and Active X code is never run. Then, set the "Trusted Sites" to "Medium."

When you have a website that you use often:

1. Click on "Tools/Internet Options" then the "Security" tab.
2. Click on "Trusted Sites" and then click on the "Sites" button.
3. Uncheck the "Require server verification" checkbox.
4. Add the site by typing the address in the "Add this Web Site" field, then click on "Add".
5. Click OK until you close all the windows.
6. You may need to "Refresh (F5)" the web page if you were looking at it before doing this.

By doing this, you ensure that if you get redirected to a hacker site or happen to click on a bad link, you won't get phished or attacked. Since most Microsoft products use IE settings, this will also reduce your risk with your other often attacked Microsoft applications too. It's more work, but it's also more secure -- it's akin to watching your surroundings when you visit an ATM, or clutching your purse to your body when you're walking down a busy city street.

Things to Avoid

1. Don't download non-essential programs off the Internet, like toolbars, search bars, screensavers, weather plugins or audio/ video programs. These programs frequently install malicious software (adware, spyware or malware) that can slow down or crash your computer and compromise your security.
   
2. If you get pop-ups, don't click on anything in that pop-up -- just clicking on the "No thank you" button can trigger an unwanted installation! Instead, close that window using its "X" at the upper right corner OR use ALT-F4 to close it. (especially handy if you get one of those popups that has no close button)
   
3. Don't click on unsolicited links received in your email, instant messages, chat rooms or forums. Links can often redirect you to a place where malware can be installed without your knowledge.