There internet can be a dangerous place.

So, watch out for these threats:

1. Viruses - Viruses are downloaded through e-mail or through internet web pages. They are often disguised. Never download a program through e-mail and don't download pirated software. Install a virus scanner. View our article on virus scanners here.
    
2. Phishing - Websites and e-mail sometimes try to get personal information when they aren't supposed to. They are sometimes hard to spot. Use a web-browser and e-mail client that has anti-phishing capabilities. View our article on phishing here.
    
3. Spyware - Software that is installed, typically branded as another piece of free software, that spies on your activity and displays annoying advertisements. They have to be removed manually using how-to's found online or through special software. Don't download pirated software or off strange, unprofessional websites.
    
4. Watch out what you buy! Only purchase products and services through large retailers online. You should only use Google Checkout, PayPal, 2Checkout.com, Yahoo Shopping, or checks when buying through small online shops.
    
5. Adult content - If you don't want your kids looking at adult content then view this article. If you do look at adult content, these sites often have the most phishing, spyware, and viruses hidden on them.
    
6. Keep your operating system up to date. Whatever operating system you use-Mac, Symbian, Windows, Solaris, Linux, Haiku, etc-keep it up to date!
    
7. Keep your web browser up to date. We recommend only using Google Chrome, Chromium, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer. Remember, since Internet Explorer is the most popular browser, it is often targeted. Keeping it up to date will protect you.
    
8. If your running services on your computer that connect to the internet, especially on Unix or Linux, those programs must be kept up to date and secure. Attackers search software vulnerabilities on different ports, so using a package manager that automatically updates your system is ideal.
    
9. Try not to type your e-mail address on a webpage. Programs scan these websites and add the e-mail addresses in a database used for sending spam. If you have to, we recommend you create an alternative e-mail address to use for that purpose. Also, be careful when signing up for any mailing list, and beware about checking the box on forms with small text that say the other party can contact you for special promotions and offers.
    
10. Use unique passwords. Don't make a simple password, and never use the same passwords for multiple websites.