Keep computers in homes
and small businesses safe from cyber attacks
-- ITG Statewide IT Policy, March 2004
The typical
Ohio home or small business may not seem to be a likely target for terrorists,
but computers in both locations frequently are not secure and could be used
by hackers to launch attacks against large computer networks, according to
experts. The State of Ohio Security Task Force and DAS created a brochure
listing 10 simple steps anyone can take to protect computers against cyber
attacks.
The steps are:
- Use and update anti-virus
software on a regular basis.
- Disconnect your computer
from the Internet when not in use.
- Never open unknown
or unexpected e-mail attachments.
- Use a firewall to protect
your computer from an Internet-based attack.
- Create backup copies
of important information on removable media.
- Change passwords periodically.
- Identify technical
support for your computer and make sure other users know where to find help
if trouble strikes.
- Have a "boot"
disk or CD available if your computer is damaged or compromised.
- Configure for security:
turn on security-enhancing features such as notification of software updates,
and turn off unnecessary features that could threaten security.
- Re-evaluate your computer
security twice a year with the beginning and end of daylight-saving time.
To view the entire brochure,
click here
or visit the Ohio Homeland Security Web site, homelandsecurity.ohio.gov.
For more information about
computer security in your worksite, consult your network administrator or
local technical support.
