Computer Safety

General Tips

Since most GDL patrons use Windows-based computers, these tips are mostly aimed at that operating system. Mac Computers tend to be more secure and require less maintenance than Windows computers.

1. Keep things simple. Only install programs that you really use. After owning your computer a while, uninstall programs that you don't use frequently. For our patrons, this usually includes items like Microsoft Works and much of the trial-software that companies load on computers.
2. Avoid "free" toolbars. You will occasionally find that software programs will offer to install a "helpful" Yahoo!, Google, or some other company's companion toolbar that shows up in your web browser. Uninstall these using your Control Panel in Windows. They tend to clutter your computer and may even pose security risks.
3. Type web addresses CAREFULLY. A web address that is misspelled can take you to rather nasty or dangerous sites on the Internet. If you don't know the web address for sure, type it into an Internet search engine (Google, Yahoo!, MSN, etc.).
4. Have at least TWO e-mail addresses. Use one e-mail address for personal/business communication with people. Use the other one when you shop online, take surveys, sign up for contests, etc. This second e-mail address should NOT have your name on it anywhere. Use your initials when signing up for this second account.
5. STOP forwarding jokes, funny screen savers, slide shows, etc. to all the people in your address book. If something so incredibly valuable that you MUST share it, be sure to delete as much of the text from the forwarded e-mail as possible.
6. Be careful opening e-mail attachments. If you don't recognize the sender's e-mail address and you're not expecting an attached file, then don't open the attachement. If you want to share photos and other files, there are better (and more secure) alternatives than e-mail.
7. Turn your computer OFF when you're not using it. The only reason to keep your computer on is if you're using it on and off throughout the day. When you go to bed at night, shut the computer down. It's not only energy-efficient, but nobody can hack into your computer when it's off.
8. BACK UP YOUR FILES. All human beings are awful at this; however, it only takes one catastrophic computer crash for you to learn the value of backups. Remember: Most software is easy to re-install, but your data is REALLY costly to recover. Backup your data files to a large-capacity USB flash drive and store them in a safe place. You may also consider using an online backup solution.
9. Keep your computer clean. Wipe down the keyboard and mouse with a disinfectant wipe at least once a week, if not every day. Monitors should be cleaned according to manufacturer's instructions (usually just a barely water-dampened microfiber cloth will do the trick). Keep desktop units off of the floor to keep them from collecting dust. Blow out dust and debris from keyboards with compressed air.
10. Keep magnets away from your computer. If you have a magnetic name badge or other item that is magnetic, do NOT put it near your computer...ever.