The latest statistics show that at least 800 new viruses are created each month. You have all heard that identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes. The people that do these things are constantly coming up with new ways to get into our computers. They either want to steal our personal identity, or they want to infect our hard drive and destroy our computer.

First and most important, you must have good anti-virus software. Not only that, you must keep your software updated, and you must run a scan at least weekly. Most anti-virus programs are only effective for about a year, and then you need to buy the newer version. You can download the newer version that is online quite easily, and it costs about $50.

Second, you must have a good firewall program if your anti-virus software does not include a firewall. Some of the more deluxe versions of the anti-virus software include a firewall. You can purchase firewall software that is relatively inexpensive. You can also activate a free firewall that is included with Windows XP.

Third, not only do you need to update your anti-virus software, you also need to update your systems software. You will receive notification of Windows and other updates, and they are usually free. You must keep all your systems updated for maximum virus protection.

Of course, everyone knows that you should not open email attachments unless you are absolutely certain who sent them to you. Be sure you know the sender, and contact the sender before you open the attachment if you have any questions. The freaks that want to ruin our computers are getting smarter and trickier. They try to disguise their emails so that you think they are from a friend or business associate.

You cannot be too careful with email. I have already received "phish" email, and you probably have also. Remember that no bank, credit card company, or other financial insitution will ever ask for personal information in an email. If anyone asks for personal information by email, you can be certain that their request is not legitimate. Do not email anyone personal information.

Everyone knows to back up the data on their computer frequently, at least weekly. I recommend you back up to an external hard drive, and you keep the hard drive in a fireproof safe or some other safe place away from your computer. Please do not carry the backup hard drive in the trunk of your car.

Finally, when you walk away from your computer, shut it down or make sure it is password-protected while you are away. Do not stay connected to the Web unless you are actively online. Never leave your computer connected to the Web overnight or any other time when you are away from your computer. You must be smart about computer protection, because the people who want to attack your computer are very smart.

Jo Ann Joy, Esq., MBA, CEO Copyright 2006 Indigo Business Solutions. All rights reserved.

You may contact Jo Ann by phone at (602) 663-7007, by fax at (602) 324-7582, by email at joannjoy@Indigo Business Solutions.net, and by mail at 2313 East Ocotillo Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85016

For more information about these and other important business topics and for legal consultation, please visit our website at http://www.IndigoBusinessSolutions.net Copyright 2006. Indigo Business Solutions is a registered trade name.

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