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Introduction

Online criminals are constantly finding new software vulnerabilities, which they then use to sneak inside your computer. Whenever these “security holes” are discovered, software makers provide “patches” to fix them. Keeping your patches up to date is a critical way to fight cybercrime.

Updated firewall, virus, and spyware protections are your first line of defense against online crime and identity theft. However, closing your computer’s security holes is equally important.

Be aware of vulnerabilities

Online criminals can quickly take advantage of newly discovered vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system, its most popular components, and other Internet applications. There are two major ways to exploit these security holes:

• Stealing your identity information, either by logging your keystrokes when you enter account information or by misdirecting you to “spoof” sites
• Taking over your machine and using it to send spam or spread viruses to other computers

Software makers respond to known vulnerabilities with free security fixes. Called patches, these updates are usually available for download from the provider’s Web site. It’s crucial to check for them regularly.

Some programs are particularly susceptible to attack. It’s especially important to keep these programs patched:

• Windows® operating systems (Windows XP, Windows 2000, etc.)
• Web browsers, like Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox®
• Media players, like RealPlayer and Windows Media Player
• Email programs, like Outlook Express® or Eudora

How to stay patched and protected

Windows Operating system: Set your PC to automatically check for patches to the Windows operating system—and to automatically download and install them as soon as they become available. Updates to the Windows operating system will include any available patches for Windows Media Player, Outlook Express, and Internet Explorer.

To configure your PC for automatic downloads, go to

• Start Menu > Control panel > Automatic Updates

Other Microsoft software: You can find patches for Microsoft Office, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and other Microsoft software on the Web: 

• http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

Internet Programs: For most other Internet programs, you can usually find updates under the “Tools” or “Help” menu. For example:

• Mozilla Firefox: Tools > Options > Advanced > Software Updates
• RealPlayer®: Tools > Check for Updates
• QuickTime®: Help > Update Existing Software

Most software makers also provide patches on their Web sites. You can usually find a software program’s Web address by selecting "About" under the program’s "Help" menu. Once you get to the Web site, look for “Downloads” or “Support” to find patches and other updates.

Update security software

Anyone who connects to the Internet should have firewall, virus, and spyware protection running at all times. While your Internet service provider (e.g., America Online or EarthLink, etc.) may offer some of these tools, you may need to install your own Internet security software for complete protection.

However, simply installing security software isn’t enough. Online criminals are constantly creating new viruses and worms that existing defenses may not recognize. That’s why the best security solutions include an automatic updating feature to make sure your software is able to detect the latest threats.

Summary

Online criminals are constantly probing for new software vulnerabilities. To keep your identity, accounts, and privacy safe, patch your computer’s security holes and update your security software on a regular basis.

Related Links

Norton Internet Security 2007
Norton Personal Firewall 2006
Norton AntiVirus 2007