How to Assess Home Security Risk
- 1). Download and install an antivirus software program, if you are not currently running one. Look for software that conducts a real-time scan, will monitor email attachments, as well as do a full scan of your computer at least once a week. Recommended is Avast, Home Edition.
- 2). Configure your personal firewall. If you are running a Windows-based machine, you can configure the built-in Windows Firewall under your Control Panel. Open your Control Panel, then select "Security Center." From there you can customize your firewall options.
- 3). Ensure that your Internet browser's phishing filter is turned on. Internet Explorer 8 has a built-in filter, which can be customized by opening the tools menu bar and selecting the phishing filter option. Firefox 3 also has a built-in filter that is by default turned on. You can customize your filter options by going to the Tools menu, and selecting "Options" > "Security."
- 4). Online transactions can be a large security risk. When beginning an online transaction, make sure the browser and site are secure. You can identify the security of a website by looking at the URL and locating the "https://" in the address. The "s" assures that the site takes extra precautions in encrypting and safekeeping of your information.
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