So this might seem like old news to many of us. But to some basic internet security is a mystery. Even for some expert bloggers and guru types.  Case in point, this morning in my email was a Twitter alert that a former associate (here in as JT) had sent me a direct message. Hoping that perhaps it was some sort of work requests opened the Twit.

It was short and sweet as Twitter message are designed. But rather than the hoped for request, it was a message stating that ‘Some whore was talking trash about me’ Well to paraphrase.

Now I know this former associate via the internet and telecommuting only. But knowing the people he works with as good upstanding people who aren’t seemingly involved in the darker side of the internet  I was a bit confounded.

So I took a screen shot and sent it to “JT” and got a rapid reply. A polite apology and an update to what was going on . Apparently his account was  having some mysterious activity and this was just another case of this Scoobi-Doo type mystery. So off JT went to correct some Twitter suggested changes. And off I went with the brainstorm of an idea for this post.

So what can we all do to make sure our websites, blogs, social networking profiles, bank accounts etc… Stay safe. here are a few quick tips.

• Dont use simple passwords that are easy to figure out by people who know you or strangers.
• Keep your machine clean of spyware and malignant cookies, viri or malware.
• Make sure you have a fully functioning firewall running.
• Be aware of your surroundings either online or in the real. It’s easy to glance over some ones shoulder at just the wrong time for you.
• Dont sign up for every offer you get in your email . Many or most of them are some sort of scam looking to bilk you out of personal information.
• With regards to your password use some Capitol letters perhaps a *%#$ special character or number.
• Dont use your name, site title, family members birthdays etc..
• Try not to use the same password for every account or profile..Tempting to do but once one is cracked they can all fall down quickly.

Now if your online (and here is the tinfoil paranoid sounding part). Your not that secure. If a hacker or sinister Botnet wants to get your information..they probably will. Just ask any giant company or governmental agency..Hackers are trying to get in. But unless your working for some super secret R&D group or are privy to military secrets, shouldnt be to
much to worry about. And most of these basic practices will keep you safe.

If you’re looking to have your pc secured drop me a line and I will happily set up a time to meet with you via phone,internet or if possible in person. Or check around and look for a reliable IT Support company in your area.

I’ll publish a list of some helpful and free software later today to give you a hand.
And something we all should keep in mind be you a novice or expert.