Getting ready to fight.

One of the most important aspects oftoday's information systems is security. Even in the most basic configurations, security breaches can happen, and some of them can ruin your peaceful life.

Before you even starting to think about spending money on security software and hardware, make sure that you take these basic precautions that will help you protect your information.

One of the most basicstrategies is keeping your system software up-to-date. Make sure you visit Windows Update in a regular basis and install critical updates. While you are there, check Office Update as well. If you connect to the Internet through DSL or cable (or any high speed service) a firewall is a must. If your setup includes a router for an Internet sharing connection, you are usually already protected, but if the "cable guy" connected your computer directly to the modem you must install a personal firewall and make sure that only authorized software connects to the Internet.

Spyware and Malware are dangerous creatures of the software world. They will take over your computer gradually. Make sure that you have your computer checked for malicious software on a regular basis, and please, avoid downloading and installing those fancy toolbars for your Internet Explorer.

Change your passwords. Most of us use the same password forever and of course for everyplace where one is requested. Passwords should be changed once in a while and must be strong and difficult to guess. Your last name won't work, nor your pet's name. Use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols, like Me&s32f, for example. By the way, don't use the same password for your online bank account and your Yahoo! email.

Make sure that your antivirus software is installed and upto-date. It is amazing how many people don't even have it installed. Renew your subscription for updates; that is money wisely invested.

The best way to compromise your computer is to join Peer to Peer networks (like Kazaa). Make sure you don't do that. We all love free music, but the risk is not worth it.

If you are running Windows NT, 2000 or XP, make sure you disable the Windows Messenger Service; it is not related to your chat tool and disabling it will limit the spam pop-ups.

Don't ever send important information through email, unless it is encrypted. Passwords, bank account numbers or credit card numbers should not be sent by email to anybody. If you receive a password by email, make sure that you change it after you login.

If you work in a shared environment (like an office, for example), don't leave your desk without logging off. There is nothing more dangerous that letting somebody take control of your computer, even for a few minutes.

And finally, don't give out your password to anybody, even if that person claims to be from "tech support".