• Home computers are often at risk.computer image by blaine stiger from Fotolia.com
  
  The use of computers for personal business and leisure is a necessity today. While some people may think that only wealthy individuals and corporations are common targets for cybercriminals, most computer hackers are looking for an easy opportunity. The easiest opportunity is an unsecured computer. Your computer files contain all of your most private personal and financial information, so proper security measures are required to keep you and your files safe.
  
  

Viruses

• Computer viruses have been a threat since the dawn of computer technology. Home computers are highly susceptible to viruses because they are usually not monitored as carefully as computers in a corporate atmosphere. Every home computer user should install a credible anti-virus software on his or her computer, but if a security software is installed and not used, it offers no protection. Set the anti-virus program to run daily scans. If the program comes with a firewall and spyware detectors, activate those functions.
  
  Anti-virus software is the first level of protection against computer virus threats. Computer users also need to protect themselves, especially online. Take care not to open email attachments from unknown senders. Only download files from reputable sources, like manufacturer web sites.
  
  

Identity Theft

• Identity theft is the main threat for home computer users. Lack of security measures like firewalls and passwords invite hackers and phishers to steal personal information. Avoid becoming a victim by using secure sites for financial transactions. Use a firewall to prevent unwanted users from gaining access to your network. Do not respond to "phishing" emails that request personal information. Change passwords regularly and remember to clear cookies and temporary Internet files on a normal basis. Use a file encryption program for files that contain personal and banking information.
  
  

Data Loss

• A breach of home computer security is often unexpected and sometimes preventable, but loss of important data can always be prevented. Computers are complicated machines that are not intended to last forever. Home computer users should remember to make backup copies of files in case of a computer meltdown. Accidents happen, too. A family computer often has multiple users, so the potential for accidentally erasing important file increases compared to a single-user computer. File backups are easy to create, either by saving a copy to disk or using a secure online file backup service. Backups should be performed every time an important file is changed.
  
  

Updates and Patches

• Most operating systems offer an automatic update feature to keep the software up to date with the latest protections. These patches are released as developers notice bugs in their programs that could cause security risks or software failure. Computer criminals stay apprised of these inconsistencies that could allow them to gain access to others' personal information. Updates and patches give you protection, so when your operating system prompts you to install an automatic update, do it.