The Dos and Donts of Safe Web Browsing

Many people enjoy using the World Wide Web. With the time of the 21st century, computers have truly become an "everyone uses them" item. Recent studies have shown that Asia has the world’s highest internet usage, with 44.8% of its users being online constantly, according to Internet World Stats. With almost 7,000,000,000 people being online worldwide, how can one keep their computer safe and virus free? How can one enjoy their time on the World Wide Web?

Install antivirus protection.

Installing antivirus protection is the first things that should be done to protect the computer. Most internet websites are trustworthy, but it only takes one virus to destroy a computer. A good antivirus protection can stop this. There are many free antivirus software packages too, so keep this in mind if you are on a tight budget.

Be careful of what websites you visit.

This does not mean that you have to do a background check on every website, but be careful and use common sense. Google is a popular search engine that usually assesses “safe website.” Websites ending in .com, .edu, and .net are usually safest, but even these can occasionally contain viruses, so be sure to use common sense.

Deny remote access to your computer and your internet wi-fi.

Nobody should respond to any request for remote access to their computer unless they are sure that they themselves trust the individual and requested it themselves. Do not transmit any personal information while doing this, and ensure that all of the computer’s files are backed up beforehand. Additionally, make sure that the household wireless internet is password protected.

Monitor what personal information you give out online. Be extremely careful when giving out personal information online. Those who are filling out forms should never give out their bank information, social security number, or credit card information.

Occasionally, a job application may ask for a social security number. Make sure this is legitimate before you send in the information.

Bank account information should only be given out when purchasing something, and then only the minimum information needed should be given that is necessary.