Install a Personal Firewall

A firewall detects any unexpected incoming connections from the Internet or unexpected outgoing connections o the Internet. These connections may be used to send information from your PC without you knowing. They may be the result of malicious software that has found its way onto your PC (e.g., by clicking on an attachment in an email).

Firewalls protect against both unexpected incoming connections from the Internet and unexpected outgoing connections to the Internet and will need to be “trained” in what is to be allowed and hence, need more effort to set up.

Keep a Clean Machine

Keep security software current: having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.

Automate software updates: many software programs will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that’s an available option.

Protect all devices connected to the Internet: computers, smart phones, gaming systems, and other web‐enabled devices all need protection from viruses and malware.