Computer Use Policies for Safety Online

by Jerry Anderson, Demand Media

When using a computer, you're at risk of identity theft and computer file destruction. You're often unaware that your computer is infected with a major threat, such as a virus or Trojan horse. Computer use policies are complex and may address several threats. The main purpose of computer use policies is to minimize your exposure to viruses and Trojan horses.

Definitions

A virus is computer code that attaches to a file, gets stored on your computer, and performs undesirable actions. A Trojan horse is a program that appears to be useful, perhaps having the same name as a once-valid program. Trojan horses perform such actions as allowing a criminal to remotely control your computer. Phishing email messages trick you into providing private information for the purpose of identity theft.

Considerations

If your password to an online account is compromised, someone may pose as you and access your private information. Once your information is acquired, a criminal is able to establish other accounts, such as online shopping accounts.

Passwords

Establish strong passwords for your online accounts which may include networking websites, banking accounts, etc. Strong passwords include a minimum of eight characters, including letters (upper and lower case), digits and symbols, such as "#" and "$" (e.g. 56#GytKnL9). Your password is the first line of defense against criminals accessing personal or business information.

Email

Never open files attached to suspicious emails or respond to emails that look suspicious. If you open an attached file, you may trigger a virus infection on your computer. Use extreme caution when clicking on a website link contained in a message. Most email programs allow you to hover your mouse over the link text to verify website addresses. Never respond to emails that request your personal information, such as Social Security numbers, passwords and user IDs.

Downloading Files

Download files only from a trusted CD, email or website. Downloading files is the process of loading files onto your computer. Downloaded files may appear harmless, but criminals use this to trick you into opening or executing destructive files. Perform a virus scan on files loaded onto your computer before opening or executing files.

Shopping

Shop only on trusted websites. Never provide your debit card number for making purchases. A debit card is normally linked to your checking account, and there is less recourse in the event something goes wrong with your purchase. If you use a credit card, do not allow the website to store your card information. It is recommended that you use an online payment service, such as PayPal. Never provide your Social Security number when shopping online.

Tools

Two basic types of online protection software are available. One type is Internet protection for navigating the Internet and preventing attacks via the Internet on your computer. Another type is virus protection that also addresses other attacks, such as Trojan horses. You may purchase these tools separately or they may be bundled together. Keep tool updates current, and perform full system scans weekly.

References

About the Author

In 1981, Jerry Anderson began writing accounting application manuals for a San Francisco corporation. He wrote computer-related manuals and procedures for data backup and disaster recovery. Anderson’s writing also includes business-related documents, such as business plans. He holds a Bachelor of Science in computer science from California State University, Chico.