The magnificent seven security tips you shouldn't miss

 

 
Even die-hard fans can miss my show or newsletters when life gets hectic. And you and I both know how hectic Christmas shopping can be! I get a lot of e-mail asking for tips and advice that have come and passed.

For the year's end, I decided to bring back some favorite security tips that you may have missed. Before you connect all your new computers or gadgets, check out these tips and get yourself up-to-date and protected. For even more great tips and advice, use the search box on my home page.

1. Protect yourself while shopping online
Most Christmas shoppers have finished, but this information will keep you safe all year round. It's valuable as more shoppers than ever are spending their dollars online, including me.

2. Protect the family computer during the holidays
Here you'll get advice on protecting your computer when you play host to family and friends. After all, strange accidents can happen when you share your home computer. Use this tip to prevent loved ones from unknowingly inviting computer-crippling viruses or spyware.

3. Lock down your new Christmas gear
Millions of high-powered tech toys will be given this year. They could provide millions of opportunities for thieves or hackers to create trouble. Use this information to make sure your new computer, music player, cell phone and other gadgets stay fun and safe.

4. Protect yourself in public Wi-Fi hotspots
Planning on taking your new laptop around town? Before you connect at the coffee shop, heed my advice for hotspot security. Remember, a hotspot is basically a network that others have set up. There's no telling what priority they've given to security.

5. Secure your home wireless network
Make sure hackers or neighbors don't use your network to steal your files or Internet connection. Here you'll find out how to set up your computers and your wireless router for encryption.

6. How to avoid phishing scams
If everyone took these simple precautions, phishing scams would be laughable. In fact, the advice here could make spam die down as well. But so long as people respond to spam and phishing e-mail, it will continue. So spread the word and help friends and family become skeptics in their e-mail inboxes.

7. It's a cruel world. Protect yourself!
This is one of the most all-around useful tips I've put together. You'll learn all the basic security measures every computer owner should have. This is also a good introduction for people on their first computers. If you know any computer newcomers who are clueless on security, pass along this tip.