How to make older computers secure
Share with others:
Do you have an older computer? How secure is it?
Depending on its age, the computer may no longer receive updates and security "patches" and the manufacturer may not offer support for it.
"New versions of browsers have important security features that may not run on older operating systems," said Consumer Action, a nonprofit education and advocacy organization that offers news and information about privacy, including what your rights are and how to avoid scams.
"Firewalls are relatively new and are activated by default by the manufacturer on newer computers," it said. "But firewalls may not be activated on older machines. As a result, older computers with 'always on' high-speed Internet connections may be at risk for security and privacy breaches."
The organization has teamed up with Microsoft to publish a brochure, "Internet Safety: A computer user's guide to privacy and security." It deals with a number of computer concerns, including:
"Potential Risks for Internet Users," "Protecting Your Computer and Data," "Protecting Your Privacy from Online Marketers" and "Protecting Your Kids Online."
Its list of "Tips and Tools" includes a warning that will save computer users - and everyone they communicate with - a lot of time and trouble if they follow its advice:
"Don't forward 'chain letters' and other e-mail junk to other people, even if you think it's funny or informative. You could be seen as a spammer or, even worse, forward a destructive file to someone else.
"Check out all e-mails on anti-hoax sites - www.snopes.com or www.quatloos.com - before you hit the forward button so you don't spread 'urban myths.'"
The brochure also warns users that free music, games and other downloads often include unwanted software in the download.
In addition to its own Web site, www.consumer-action.org, more information about Internet safety can be found at:
First Published March 11, 2010 12:00 am
