Is the Internet safe?

The overwhelming majority of Internet threats are designed to snare “low-hanging fruit”—unprotected computers and unwary consumers. If you follow best practices for protecting your computer and take reasonable precautions in your online interactions, you’ll be as safe online as you are anywhere else.

What is the main threat of cybercrime?

Identity thieves may steal your private data, such as Social Security numbers or account passwords. Or they may enlist your PC in a remotely controlled bot network used to send spam, host an illegal activity, or launch denial-of-service attacks.

How can I protect myself and my family?

• Use a comprehensive security program that protects against viruses, spyware, and the unauthorized transmission of data to or from your computer.
• Make sure the protection provides automatic updates of threat signatures and blocking technology as new threats emerge.
• Keep your operating system and all your applications updated with the latest security patches.

What are security patches?

Cyberthieves constantly find new ways to penetrate your computer’s programs—from the operating system (for example, Windows Vista) to the smallest applet (a tiny application that performs routine tasks on a PC). Program vendors respond with patches that update the program to close the vulnerability.