While the Internet has become a valuable tool
and resource, your personal information may be at risk if not handled
properly.
Watch for Spam
Spam, or unsolicited commercial e-mail are messages sent to you without
your permission. Often these e-mails attempt to sell you something or
contain adult content. Spam also may be fraudulent and contain forged
or false information—for more information see phishing.
Viruses, Worms and Other Malicious
Software
If you connect your personal computer to the Internet, it is important
that you protect it against viruses and other unwanted software transferred
from the Internet designed to harm your computer, send you spam and use
your computer to send viruses to others.
Phishing
Phishing scams occur when you receive a phone call or e-mail
from someone claiming to work for a financial organization, service provider
or other organization you do business with requesting you provide personal
information. The information is collected and then used to commit identity
theft.
Adware, Spyware, Bots
Anything that sounds too good to be true usually is. Free and useful software
offered on Web sites may track your Web surfing, steal confidential data
or misuse your computer for attacks on others.
Internet Modem Switching
Again be wary of downloading “free” software. It can result
in the redirection from your dialup ISP to another, more costly and often
international location.
Learn how to protect yourself from computer
fraud.
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