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Computer Security & Privacy
Resources from presentation by Bob Jordan, EA
| Recommended free software | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firewall | ZoneAlarm | Blocks hackers and robots from accessing your computer | ||
| AntiVirus | Grisoft AVG (AntiVirus Guard) | Scans files and incoming email for viruses, fixes or isolates any viruses found | ||
| Spam Blocker |
Mailwasher Alternate: Download.com | Preview messages on the server and delete spam before downloading messages to your email program | ||
| Pop-up ad stopper | Pop-Up Stopper | Block pop-up ad windows from appearing | ||
| Spyware remover | SpyBot - Search & Destroy | Detect and remove a multitude of adware files and modules from your computer. | ||
| Cookie clean-up | Ct Cookie Spy | Get rid of spying cookies | ||
| Cookie editor | Cookie Monster | Scan and delete your cookies and Internet cache. | ||
| Email clean-up | Email Stripper | Remove >> and line breaks from forwarded mail | ||
Tips
1 Get an "email alias" from AzSEA. Your email address will say "Arizona tax professional" and your actual email address will be hidden.
2 Test your computer's Internet connection and see where you have security holes at Shields Up. Also, DSL Reports offers speed checks for your high-sped connection as well as security checks.
3 Go to Google and enter your phone number or name to see what appears on the internet about you. You can request that your phone number not appear.
4 Instead up using Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Outlook (or Outlook Express), use an alternative browser and email program. Hackers often ignore other programs because Microsoft's software has such a large user base. Try Mozilla (complete suite) or Mozilla Firebird (browser only), the engine of the new Netscape browsers without the megabyte bloat. For email, try Eudora or Pegasus, both powerful, long-established programs.
More handy resources
Kim Komando -- Radio show computer expert. Sign up for her free e-newsletter.
Electronic Frontier Foundation -- Nonprofit organization to protect freedom in the digital world. Great source of information on electronic privacy issues.
CallWave -- "Internet Answering Machine" answers your phone while online and lets you screen callers. Limited-time free trial, then inexpensive monthly fee.