Every time you buy stuff online, do your banking or pay bills over the Internet, check in with your office by e-mail or just surf the Web for fun, you open a gateway to the personal information on your computer-including credit-card numbers, bank balances and more. You may also be in for costly computer repairs and lost data, due to damaging computer viruses that can invade your computer through e-mail connections.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your computer, your information and your peace of mind from computer creeps who try to slow down a network operation, or worse yet, steal personal information to commit a crime. Here are some tips to help you, from the security experts:

• Make sure your passwords have both letters and numbers, and are at least eight characters long. Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords-and don't share your passwords online or over the phone.
   
• Protect yourself from viruses by installing anti-virus software and updating it regularly. You can download anti-virus software from the Web sites of software companies, or buy it in retail stores; the best recognize old and new viruses and update automatically.  SureNet's Email Virus Scanning updates several times a day for the best protection of your email.
   
• Prevent unauthorized access to your computer through firewall software or hardware, especially if you are a high-speed user. A properly configured firewall makes it tougher for hackers to locate your computer. Firewalls are also designed to prevent hackers from getting into your programs and files. Some recently released operating system software and some hardware devices come with a built-in firewall. Some firewalls block outgoing information as well as incoming files. That stops hackers from planting programs called spyware that cause your computer to send out your personal information without your approval.
   
• Don't open a file attached to an e-mail unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an attachment, type a message explaining what it is. Never forward any e-mail warning about a new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus.

Types of Security Threats:

Adware
Programs that secretly gather personal information through the Internet and relay it back to another computer, generally for advertising purposes. This is often accomplished by tracking information related to Internet browser usage or habits. Adware can be downloaded from Web sites (typically in shareware or freeware), email messages, and instant messengers. A user may unknowingly trigger adware by accepting an End User License Agreement from a software program linked to the adware.

Dialers
Programs that use a system, without your permission or knowledge, to dial out through the Internet to a 900 number or FTP site, typically to accrue charges.

Hack Tools
Tools used by a hacker to gain unauthorized access to your computer. One example of a hack tool is a keystroke logger -- a program that tracks and records individual keystrokes and can send this information back to the hacker.

Hoax
Usually an email that gets mailed in chain letter fashion describing some devastating, highly unlikely type of virus. Hoaxes are detectable as having no file attachment, no reference to a third party who can validate the claim, and by the general tone of the message.

Joke Programs
Programs that change or interrupt the normal behavior of your computer, creating a general distraction or nuisance. Harmless programs that cause various benign activities to display on your computer (for example, an unexpected screen saver).

Remote Access
Programs that allow another computer to gain information or to attack or alter your computer, usually over the Internet. Remote access programs detected in virus scans may be recognizable commercial software, which are brought to the user's attention during the scan.

Spyware
Stand-alone programs that can secretly monitor system activity. These may detect passwords or other confidential information and transmit them to another computer. Spyware can be downloaded from Web sites (typically in shareware or freeware), email messages, and instant messengers. A user may unknowingly trigger spyware by accepting an End User License Agreement from a software program linked to the spyware.

Trojan Horse
A program that neither replicates nor copies itself, but causes damage or compromises the security of the computer. Typically, an individual emails a Trojan Horse to you-it does not email itself-and it may arrive in the form of a joke program or software of some sort.

Virus
A program or code that replicates; that is, infects another program, boot sector, partition sector, or document that supports macros, by inserting itself or attaching itself to that medium. Most viruses only replicate, though, many do a large amount of damage as well.

Worm
A program that makes copies of itself; for example, from one disk drive to another, or by copying itself using email or another transport mechanism. The worm may do damage and compromise the security of the computer. It may arrive in the form of a joke program or software of some sort.

General Security Tips:

• Keep private information private
  Smart surfers don't disclose personal information unless they know who's collecting it, why, and how it's going to be used. And they never disclose their password.
• Get to know online merchants
  Be cautious of a company that claims to have a secret connection overseas or doesn't allow e-mail replies.
• Question out-of-this-world claims
  Claims like "you can earn over $50,000 a month" or "lose weight without dieting" suggest a scam. Be wary of any company that makes a product or performance claim that's unlikely - or just plain hard to believe.
• Make sure it's secure
  If you buy something on the Internet and need to give your credit card number, verify the online security or encryption before you do business.
• Know who's who
  Online, anyone can be anyone, anywhere. Because it's easy to fake e-mail addresses, be mindful of who you're listening to or talking with before you give out personal information.
• Watch the .exe files
  Secret programs may exist in files you download - especially .exe files. These files could ruin your hard drive, hijack your modem, or collect information about you without your knowledge. Install a virus protection program before you go online.
• Filter for fun
  Inexpensive "filtering" software programs help make sure your family members are protected from sites that may not be age - or interest - appropriate.

Dialup Security

Most Canadians who use the Internet from home access it through a "dial-up connection" that uses a modem to call in to a server over a regular telephone line. A dial-up connection to the Internet may be slower than a broadband connection, but there's one thing they share: they both depend on the user to keep them operating safely and securely.

If your computer is attacked by a virus or a hacker, it really doesn't matter what type of connection you use: the damage is done. You could lose important personal information or software that's stored on your hard drive, as well as valuable time trying to make repairs. And your computer could be used without your knowledge to attack other computers, including those that protect our national security.

If you use a dial-up connection, a few "do it now" tips can help you minimize - and perhaps even avoid altogether - the damage that a virus or hacker can wreak on your computer.

1. Use anti-virus software. A virus is software that is planted in your computer to damage files and disrupt your system. Most viruses enter a computer hidden in a seemingly innocent program, often as an attachment to an email. Then the software code attached to the program produces copies of itself and inserts the copied code into other programs. A virus can result in lost data or require costly repairs to your system. You can avoid these risks by installing and using software that scans your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them. SureNet Email Virus Scanning will delete virues sent by email before they hit your computer.

You can download anti-virus software from the web sites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for anti-virus software that recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones; that can effectively reverse the damage; and that updates automatically.

2. Regularly update anti-virus software. To be effective, anti-virus software must be updated routinely with antidotes to the latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.

3. Don't fall for a fibbing email. Most viruses won't damage your computer unless you open the email attachment that includes the virus. So hackers - people who use the Internet to access computers without permission - often lie to get you to open the attachments. The email may appear to come from a friend or colleague, or it may have an appealing file name, like "Fwd: FUNNY TEXT" or "As per your request!" It could appear to link to a web site or promise to clean a virus off your computer if you open it. Don't open an email attachment - even if it looks like it's from a friend or coworker - unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an email with an attached file, include a text message explaining what it is.

In addition, don't forward any email warning about a new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus. If you receive a chain letter or hoax virus alert, let the sender know so they can stop spreading the virus.

4. Use strong passwords. Hackers may try to steal your passwords to gain access to the personal information stored on your computer. To make it tougher for them, use passwords that have at least eight characters and include numbers or symbols. Avoid common words: Some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords. Don't share your passwords online or over the phone.

5. Take advantage of your software's security features. Chances are your web browser and operating system software give you some options for increasing your online security. Check the "Tools" or "Options" menus for built-in security features. You probably have several choices for what types of files you want to accept from other computers. If you don't understand your choices, check them out using your "Help" function.

Similarly, your email software may give you the ability to filter certain types of messages, such as some unsolicited bulk email, or spam. But it's up to you to activate the filter.

6. Back up important files. If you follow these tips, you'll reduce the chances of falling victim to a hacker or virus. But no system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disk, and store them in a safe place.

7. If your computer is infected, take action immediately. If your computer has been hacked or infected by a virus, disconnect from the Internet right away. Then scan your entire computer with fully updated anti-virus software. Before you reconnect to the Internet, think about how your computer could have been accessed and what you could have done to avoid it. Did you open an email attachment and let loose a virus? Is your anti-virus software out-of-date? Take steps to minimize the chances of it happening again.

8. If you have particularly sensitive information stored on your computer or you're planning to upgrade to high-speed Internet access:
Install a firewall. A firewall is software or hardware designed to block hackers from accessing your computer. A properly configured firewall makes it tougher for hackers to locate your computer and get into your programs and files. A firewall is different from anti-virus protection: Anti-virus software scans your incoming communications and files for troublesome files; a firewall helps make you invisible on the Internet and blocks all communications from unauthorized sources.

Turn off software features that you don't use. You may want to turn "off" some software features - instant messaging, printer-sharing or file-sharing - that typically are "on" when a computer is shipped.. Because these programs facilitate the passing of information between computers, they are an excellent entry point for hackers.

When Your Computer Makes A Call...Without Your Okay

If you use the Internet, you're probably dialing a local phone number to get online. Chances are you know exactly what you pay for that local service. However, many consumers are surprised to find they've been charged for calls to destinations that aren't remotely local, simply remote. The calls were made through their modems without their knowledge or approval.

How does it happen? Most often, it's a scheme some Web sites use to trick consumers into paying to access "free" Internet content. Some sites claim to be "free" or advertise that "no credit card is needed," then prompt the user to download a "viewer" or "dialer" program. Here's the catch: Once the program is downloaded to the user's computer, it disconnects from the Internet and reconnects using another phone number - a domestic long distance, international or 900 number - at rates between $2 and $7 a minute - or more!

These scams, which are typically associated with adult sites, don't require a credit card number for access. That means they're available to children, who can click onto them without their parents' knowledge or permission. Even if parents disable international calling from their phone lines, many modem dialers are programmed to circumvent the "block," and initiate international calls using a "10-10 dial-around" prefix.

Here's how you can minimize your chances of finding surprise charges on your phone bill:

• Consider a dedicated phone line for your computer and restrict it to local calls.
   
• Pay attention to any program that enables your modem to re-dial to the Internet. If you see a dialog box on your computer indicating that it's dialing when you didn't direct it to, cancel the connection and hang up. Check the number you're dialing and continue only if it's a local call..
   
• Make sure your modem makes an audible noise when dialing a phone number - so you can hear that a new connection is being made.
   
• Delete any dialer programs that have been downloaded onto your computer.
   
• Read online disclosures carefully. They may be buried several clicks away in pages of small print. In addition, read the language in the typical gray boxes on your screen. Don't click on "OK" unless you know exactly what you're agreeing to.  Click the X to close a window, never click NO.
   
• If in the past you used a modem to dial up the Internet and now you use a high-speed DSL or cable connection, disconnect the phone line from your computer. You don't need it to access the Internet any more, and it could leave you vulnerable to a dialer program.
   
• You may want to install a firewall, especially if you use a high-speed Internet connection. A firewall is software or hardware designed to block hackers from accessing your computer. You also might consider increasing the security settings on the operating system software on your computer.
   
• Talk to your children. Explain that they could be targets of international modem dialing scams and tell them the consequences of downloading "viewer" or "dialer" programs on the computer.
   
• Monitor your children's Internet use. Keep track of the Web sites your children visit by checking the Web browser history files and cache.
   
• Be skeptical when surfing the Web especially when you see claims like "free" or "no credit card needed" in exchange for a product or service.
   
• Dispute the charges with the company doing the billing.
  
  
• Save the bill. If you think you've been a victim of unauthorized modem dialing, it may help identify the scammers when you report the incident

High Speed Security

If you listen to the news, you've probably heard about hackers and viruses. But unless your computer has been targeted by one, you may not know how they could affect you. If your computer is attacked by a hacker or virus, you could lose important personal information or software stored on your hard drive. You also could lose valuable time while you try to repair the damage. Without your knowledge, your computer could even be used to attack other computers, including those that protect our national security.

The best protection against hackers and viruses is your personal commitment to online safety. If you use a high-speed connection to access the Internet, you can take precautions to better protect your time, the information on your computer and the security of our nation's computer networks.

What is high-speed Internet access?
Most Canadians who use the Internet from home connect to it through a "dial-up connection" using a modem to call into a server over a regular telephone line. SureNet along with other provider offer high-speed Internet access - also known as broadband access - usually through a DSL connection (a digital subscriber line) or a cable modem.

High-speed Internet access can cost more than a dial-up connection, but an increasing number of consumers choose it because:

• it is faster than a dial-up connection, which reduces the time you spend waiting for web pages to load and lets your computer work faster.
• it can connect your computer to the Internet with no dialing and no busy signals.
• it lets you make and receive voice calls over your phone line while you're connected to the Internet. That's because DSL technology can handle data and voice on a single phone line at the same time and cable technology uses a separate wire from the telephone.

What are the risks?
Along with their benefits, high-speed Internet connections can be an inviting target for hackers and computer viruses. A hacker is a person who uses the Internet to access computers without permission. A virus is software that is planted in your computer to damage files and disrupt your system.

When you connect to the Internet, you are identified by an Internet Protocol (IP) address - a string of numbers that identifies your machine. If you use a dial-up connection, your IP address changes every time you log on. Some high-speed connection users' IP addresses may remain fixed, making it easier for a hacker to access their computers repeatedly.

One reason a hacker might want to access your computer is to steal the personal information stored on it. A hacker could use that information to commit identity theft. Hackers who discover your credit card numbers, Social Security number or bank account numbers may use the information to run up charges in your name. Or they may sell the information to other identity thieves.

Your DSL or cable modem stays connected to the Internet unless you turn off the computer or disconnect your Internet service. These "always on" connections can make a computer vulnerable to attack any time. Unless you take a few precautions, hackers can leave a virus or other software code on your computer that could be released later.

This technique has been behind distributed denial-of-service attacks. That's when hackers spread a virus that tells many individual computers to send messages simultaneously to the same server. The flood of messages can overload the system at, say, a bank, a government agency or another web site. The systems then become swamped processing useless information or crash altogether.

If you use a high-speed connection to access the Internet, here are 10 tips that can enhance your protection against hackers and viruses, and help you stay safe online:

1. Use anti-virus software.
Most viruses enter a computer hidden in a seemingly innocent program, often as an attachment to an email. Then the virus software code attached to the program produces copies of itself and inserts the copied code into other programs. A virus can result in lost data or require costly repairs to your system. You can avoid these risks by installing and using software that scans your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deletes them.

You can download anti-virus software from the web sites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for anti-virus software that recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones; that can effectively reverse the damage; and that updates automatically.

2. Regularly update anti-virus software.
To be effective, anti-virus software must be updated routinely with antidotes to the latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.

3. Install a firewall.
A firewall is software or hardware designed to block hackers from accessing your computer. A properly configured firewall masks your IP address, making it tougher for hackers to locate your computer. Firewalls are designed to prevent hackers from getting into your programs and files.

A firewall is different from anti-virus protection: Anti-virus software scans your incoming communications and files for troublesome files; a firewall helps make you invisible on the Internet and blocks all communications from unauthorized sources.

Some recently-released operating system software and some hardware devices come with a built-in firewall. It may be shipped in the "off" mode. Make sure you turn it on and set it up properly. Check your on-line "Help" feature for specifics. If your operating system doesn't include a firewall, buy a separate software firewall that runs in the background while you work, or install a hardware firewall - an external device that includes firewall software. Like anti-virus software, a firewall needs to be updated regularly to be effective.

Some firewalls block outgoing information as well as incoming files. That stops hackers from planting programs - called spyware - that cause your computer to send out your personal information without your approval.

4. Don't fall for a fibbing email.
Most viruses won't damage your computer unless you open the email attachment that includes the virus. So hackers often lie to get you to open the attachments. The email may appear to come from a friend or colleague, or it may have an appealing file name, like "Fwd: FUNNY TEXT" or "As per your request!" It could appear to link to a web site or promise to clean a virus off your computer if you open it. Don't open an email attachment - even if it appears to be from a friend or coworker - unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an email with an attached file, include a text message explaining what it is.

In addition, don't forward any email warning about a new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus. If you receive a chain letter or hoax virus alert, let the sender know so they can stop spreading the virus.

5. If your computer is infected, take action immediately.
If your computer has been hacked or infected by a virus, immediately unplug the phone or cable line from your machine. Then scan your entire computer with fully updated anti-virus software and update your firewall.

Before you reconnect to the Internet, think about how your computer could have been accessed and what you could have done to avoid it. Did you open an email attachment and let loose a virus? Did a hacker bypass your outdated firewall? Take steps to minimize the chances of it happening again.

6. Use strong passwords.
Hackers may try to steal your passwords to gain access to the personal information stored on your computer. To make it tougher for them, use passwords that have at least eight characters and include numerals or symbols. Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords. Don't share your passwords online or over the phone.

7. Take advantage of your software's security features.
Chances are your web browser and operating system software give you some options for increasing your online security. Check the "Tools" or "Options" menus for built-in security features. You probably have several choices for what types of files you want to accept from other computers. If you don't understand your choices, check them out using your "Help" function.

Similarly, your email software may give you the ability to filter certain types of messages, such as some unsolicited bulk email, or spam. But it's up to you to activate the filter.

8. Turn off software features that you don't use.
You may want to turn "off" some software features - instant messaging, printer-sharing or file-sharing - that typically are "on" when a computer is shipped. File-sharing allows several computers (connected through a network) to use the same file at the same time. Because it facilitates the passing of information between computers, this feature is an excellent point of entry for hackers. A firewall won't block files sent to you this way. If you're not on a network, turn the file-sharing feature "off." Your operating system's "Help" feature will show you how.

Another software feature that could leave you exposed to a virus is an email preview pane that lets you view attachments automatically. The preview pane could allow a virus to be launched even if you never click on the attachment.

And if you're not using your computer for an extended period, you can turn it off or unplug it from the phone or cable line. When it's off, the computer doesn't send or receive information from the Internet and isn't vulnerable to hackers.

9. Back up important files.
If you follow these tips, you'll reduce the chances of falling victim to a hacker or virus. But no system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disc, and store them in a safe place.

Phishing Scams

Internet scammers casting about for people's financial information have a new way to lure unsuspecting victims: They go "phishing". Phishing, also called "carding," is a high-tech scam that uses spam to deceive consumers into disclosing their credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information.

Often, the suspect emails pretend to be from businesses the potential victims deal with - for example, their Internet service provider (ISP), online payment service (eg. Paypal) or a bank. The fraudsters tell recipients that they need to "update" or "validate" their billing information to keep their accounts active, and direct them to a "look-alike" Web site of the legitimate business, further tricking consumers into thinking they are responding to a bona fide request. Unknowingly, consumers submit their financial information - not to the businesses - but the scammers, who use it to order goods and services and obtain credit.  SureNet only sends out periodic "SureNet Updates". No un-solicited email asking for your information is ever sent out by us.

To avoid getting caught by one of these scams follow these tips:

• If you get an email that warns you, with little or no notice, that an account of yours will be shut down unless you reconfirm your billing information, do not reply or click on the link in the email. Instead, contact the company cited in the email using a telephone number or Web site address you know to be genuine.
• Avoid emailing personal and financial information. Before submitting financial information through a Web site, look for the "lock" icon on the browser's status bar. It signals that your information is secure during transmission.
• Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them to determine whether there are any unauthorized charges. If your statement is late by more than a couple of days, call your credit card company or bank to confirm your billing address and account balances.

Top Email Scams

Email boxes are filling up with more offers for business opportunities than any other kind of unsolicited commercial email. That's a problem, because many of these offers are scams. More often than not, bulk email offers appear to be fraudulent, and if pursued, could rip-off unsuspecting consumers.

Here are the 12 scams that are most likely to arrive in consumers' email boxes:

1. Business opportunities
These business opportunities make it sound easy to start a business that will bring lots of income without much work or cash outlay. The solicitations trumpet unbelievable earnings claims of $140 a day, $1,000 a day, or more, and claim that the business doesn't involve selling, meetings, or personal contact with others, or that someone else will do all the work. Many business opportunity solicitations claim to offer a way to make money in an Internet-related business. Short on details but long on promises, these messages usually offer a telephone number to call for more information. In many cases, you'll be told to leave your name and telephone number so that a salesperson can call you back with the sales pitch.

The scam: Many of these are illegal pyramid schemes masquerading as legitimate opportunities to earn money.

2. Bulk email
Bulk email solicitations offer to sell you lists of email addresses, by the millions, to which you can send your own bulk solicitations. Some offer software that automates the sending of email messages to thousands or millions of recipients. Others offer the service of sending bulk email solicitations on your behalf.. Some of these offers say, or imply, that you can make a lot of money using this marketing method.

The problem: Sending bulk email violates the terms of service with SureNet and most other Internet service providers. If you use one of the automated email programs, you may shut you down. In addition, inserting a false return address into your solicitations, as some of the automated programs allow you to do, may land you in legal hot water with the owner of the address's domain name. Several governments have laws regulating the sending of unsolicited commercial email, which you may unwittingly violate by sending bulk email. Few legitimate businesses, if any, engage in bulk email marketing for fear of offending potential customers.

3. Chain letters
You're asked to send a small amount of money ($5 to $20) to each of four or five names on a list, replace one of the names on the list with your own, and then forward the revised message via bulk email. The letter may claim that the scheme is legal, that it's been reviewed or approved by the government; or it may refer to sections of law that legitimize the scheme. Don't believe it.

The scam: Chain letters-traditional or high-tech-are almost always illegal, and nearly all of the people who participate in them lose their money. The fact that a "product" such as a report on how to make money fast, a mailing list, or a recipe may be changing hands in the transaction does not change the legality of these schemes.

4. Work-at-home schemes
Envelope-stuffing solicitations promise steady income for minimal labor-for example, you'll earn $2 each time you fold a brochure and seal it in an envelope. Craft assembly work schemes often require an investment of hundreds of dollars in equipment or supplies, and many hours of your time producing goods for a company that has promised to buy them.

The scam: You'll pay a small fee to get started in the envelope-stuffing business. Then, you'll learn that the email sender never had real employment to offer.. Instead, you'll get instructions on how to send the same envelope-stuffing ad in your own bulk emailings. If you earn any money, it will be from others who fall for the scheme you're perpetuating. And after spending the money and putting in the time on the craft assembly work, you are likely to find promoters who refuse to pay you, claiming that your work isn't up to their "quality standards."

5. Health and diet scams
Pills that let you lose weight without exercising or changing your diet, herbal formulas that liquefy your fat cells so that they are absorbed by your body, and cures for impotence and hair loss are among the scams flooding email boxes.

The scam: These gimmicks don't work. The fact is that successful weight loss requires a reduction in calories and an increase in physical activity. Beware of case histories from "cured" consumers claiming amazing results; testimonials from "famous" medical experts you've never heard of; claims that the product is available from only one source or for a limited time; and ads that use phrases like "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," "secret formula," and "ancient ingredient."

6. Effortless income
The trendiest get-rich-quick schemes offer unlimited profits exchanging money on world currency markets; newsletters describing a variety of easy-money opportunities; the perfect sales letter; and the secret to making $4,000 in one day.

The scam: If these systems worked, wouldn't everyone be using them? The thought of easy money may be appealing, but success generally requires hard work.

7. Free goods
Some email messages offer valuable goods-for example, computers, other electronic items, and long-distance phone cards-for free. You're asked to pay a fee to join a club, then told that to earn the offered goods, you have to bring in a certain number of participants. You're paying for the right to earn income by recruiting other participants, but your payoff is in goods, not money.

The scam: Most of these messages are covering up pyramid schemes, operations that inevitably collapse. Almost all of the payoff goes to the promoters and little or none to consumers who pay to participate.

8. Investment opportunities
Investment schemes promise outrageously high rates of return with no risk. One version seeks investors to help form an offshore bank. Others are vague about the nature of the investment, stressing the rates of return. Many are Ponzi schemes, in which early investors are paid off with money contributed by later investors. This makes the early investors believe that the system actually works, and encourages them to invest even more.

Promoters of fraudulent investments often operate a particular scam for a short time, quickly spend the money they take in, then close down before they can be detected. Often, they reopen under another name, selling another investment scam. In their sales pitch, they'll say that they have high-level financial connections; that they're privy to inside information; that they'll guarantee the investment; or that they'll buy back the investment after a certain time. To close the deal, they often serve up phony statistics, misrepresent the significance of a current event, or stress the unique quality of their offering-anything to deter you from verifying their story.

The scam: Ponzi schemes eventually collapse because there isn't enough money coming in to continue simulating earnings. Other schemes are a good investment for the promoters, but no for participants.

9. Cable descrambler kits
For a small sum of money, you can buy a kit to assemble a cable descrambler that supposedly allows you to receive cable television transmissions without paying any subscription fee.

The scam: The device that you build probably won't work. Most of the cable TV systems use technology that these devices can't crack. What's more, even if it worked, stealing service from a cable television company is illegal.

10. Guaranteed loans or credit, on easy terms
Some email messages offer home-equity loans that don't require equity in your home, as well as solicitations for guaranteed, unsecured credit cards, regardless of your credit history. Usually, these are said to be offered by offshore banks. Sometimes they are combined with pyramid schemes, which offer you an opportunity to make money by attracting new participants to the scheme.

The scams: The home equity loans turn out to be useless lists of lenders who will turn you down if you don't meet their qualifications. The promised credit cards never come through, and the pyramid money-making schemes always collapse.

11. Credit repair
Credit repair scams offer to erase accurate negative information from your credit file so you can qualify for a credit card, auto loan, home mortgage, or a job.

The scam: The scam artists who promote these services can't deliver. Only time, a deliberate effort, and a personal debt repayment plan will improve your credit. The companies that advertise credit repair services appeal to consumers with poor credit histories. Not only can't they provide you with a clean credit record, but they also may be encouraging you to violate federal law. If you follow their advice you may be committing fraud.

12. Vacation prize promotions
Electronic certificates congratulating you on "winning" a fabulous vacation for a very attractive price are among the scams arriving in your email. Some say you have been "specially selected" for this opportunity.

The scam: Most unsolicited commercial email goes to thousands or millions of recipients at a time. Often, the cruise ship you're booked on may look more like a tug boat. The hotel accommodations likely are shabby, and you may be required to pay more for an upgrade. Scheduling the vacation at the time you want it also may require an additional fee.

Parental Control

Parental control protects children from inappropriate web sites, normally those containing Adult Content. Note that there is no known software that can provide a 100% guarantee that your children will not be able to access inappropriate material on the web, some of this material can arrive by other means - for example email. However, there are steps that you can take to minimize the chance of "Little Johnny" stumbling upon material that may be inappropriate.

Parental Control Tips:

• Talk to your kids and establish the rules. Clearly define what
  they may click on, and what they may not
• Know what you're children are doing! Know when they are
  online. Never let small children surf alone!
• You may want to locate your PC in a public area of your home, so you
  can keep an eye on the monitor
• Only allow children to explore approved sites. Pre-load the
  site for them
• Explain to your child that if they come across a site that they
  aren't sure about, they should TELL their parents
• Do not let children fill out Internet Forms
• If your children like to "Chat", make sure they are only doing
  so at a "Kid-safe" web site. DON'T CHAT WITH STRANGERS!
• Set time limits - Don't allow kids to spend all their time online.
  Set a time limit on computer use.
• There a lot of great sites with more Parental Control Tips

Parental Control Software
Parental Control Software is user friendly Internet filtering software that protects your family from objectionable Internet material. Fully customizable, parents can block sites, monitor activity, and assign user accounts for each family member. Parental Control Software gives you the ability to control what content those using your computer can view. Some of these log activity on your computer, while others prevent sites that meet specific criteria from being accessed. This may be useful for those who cannot watch over their computer all the time. Once again, this type of software is NOT 100% fool-proof. You should only use this type of software in addition to some of the common sense approaches listed above. Here are a few examples of Parental Control Software:

Commercial Parental Control Software:

• www.cybersitter.com
• www.cyberpatrol.com
• net-nanny-software.com

Free Parental Control Software:

• www.we-blocker.com
• Parental Filter

Online Shopping

Shop Online Safely

The Internet is an exciting tool that puts vast information at your fingertips. With a click of a mouse, it lets you buy an airline ticket, book a hotel, send flowers to a friend, or purchase your favorite stock.

Good deals, convenience, and choice abound on the Internet. But before you use all the Internet has to offer, be "cyber" smart to make the most of your online experience.

Security on the Internet
Shopping online offers lots of benefits that you won't find shopping in a store or by mail. The Internet is always open – seven days a week, 24 hours a day – and bargains can be numerous online. Shopping on the Internet is no less safe than shopping in a store or by mail. Keep the following tips in mind to help ensure that your online shopping experience is a safe one.

· Use a secure browser.
This is the software you use to navigate the Internet. Your browser should comply with industry security standards, such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). These standards scramble the purchase information you send over the Internet, helping to secure your transaction. Most computers come with a browser installed. You also can download some browsers for free over the Internet.

· Shop with companies you know. Anyone can set up shop online under almost any name. If you're not familiar with a merchant, ask for a paper catalog or brochure to get a better idea of their merchandise and services. Also, determine the company's refund and return policies before you place your order. These should be posted on the company's Web site.

· Keep your password(s) private. Be creative when you establish a password, and never give it to anyone. Avoid using a telephone number, birth date or a portion of your Social Security number. Instead, use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols.

· Pay by credit or charge card. Some companies offer an online shopping guarantee that ensures you will not be held responsible for any unauthorized charges made online, and some cards may provide additional warranty, return and/or purchase protection benefits.

· Keep a record. Be sure to print a copy of your purchase order and confirmation number for your records. Also, you should know that the Mail and Telephone Order Merchandise Rule covers online orders. This means that unless the company states otherwise, your merchandise must be delivered within 30 days; and if there are delays, the company must notify you.

· Pay your bills online. Some companies let you pay bills and check your account status online. Before you sign up for any service, evaluate how the company secures your financial and personal information. Many companies explain their security procedures on their Web site. If you don't see a security description, call or email the company and ask.

EASY AS ABC
When exploring online, think ABC to remember the privacy and security questions you should ask about a company.

About me. What information does the company collect about me and is it secure?

Benefits. How does the company use that information and what is the benefit to me?

Choices. What choices do I have about the company's use of information about me? Can I opt-out of having information used for other purposes, and how?

Privacy on the Internet
Technology now provides companies with the ability to collect information about you and potentially give or sell that information to others. While the Internet can serve as a tremendous resource for information, products, and services, you should be sure to safeguard your privacy online by following these tips.

• Keep personal information private. Don't disclose personal information – such as your address, telephone number, Social Security number, or email address – unless you know who is collecting the information, why they are collecting it, and how they will use it. If you have children, teach them to check with you before giving out personal – or family – information online.
• Look for an online privacy policy. Many companies post their privacy policies on their Web site. This policy should disclose what information is being collected on the Web site and how that information is being used. Before you provide a company with personal information, check its privacy policy. If you can't find a policy, send an email or written message to the Web site to ask about its policy and request that it be posted on the site.
• Make choices. Many companies give you a choice on their Web site as to whether and how your personal information is used. These companies allow you to decline – or "opt-out" of – having personal information, such as your email address, used for marketing purposes or shared with other companies. Look for this choice as part of the company's privacy policy.

General Virus Information

What is a computer virus?
A computer virus is a program - a piece of executable code - that has the unique ability to replicate. Like biological viruses, computer viruses can spread quickly and are often difficult to eradicate. They can attach themselves to just about any type of file and are spread as files that are copied and sent from individual to individual.

Besides replication, some computer viruses have something else in common: a damage routine that can deliver the virus payload. While payloads may only display messages or images, they can also destroy files, reformat your hard drive, or cause other kinds of damage. If the virus does not contain a damage routine, it can still cause trouble by taking up storage space and memory, and downgrading the overall performance of your computer.

Several years ago most viruses spread primarily via floppy disk, but the Internet has introduced new virus distribution mechanisms. With email now used as an important business communication tool, viruses are spreading faster than ever. Viruses attached to email messages can infect an entire enterprise in a matter of minutes, costing companies millions of dollars annually in productivity loss and clean-up expenses.

Most Viruses are written for, and affect Microsoft Windows machines. Generally, there are three main classes of viruses:

• File infectors. These viruses attach themselves to program files, usually selected .COM or .EXE files. Some can infect any program for which execution is requested, including .SYS, .OVL, .PRG, and .MNU files. When the program is loaded, the virus is loaded as well.
• System or boot-record infectors. These viruses infect executable code found in certain system areas on a disk. They attach to the DOS boot sector on diskettes or the Master Boot Record on hard disks. A typical scenario (familiar to the author) is to receive a diskette from an innocent source that contains a boot disk virus. When your operating system is running, files on the diskette can be read without triggering the boot disk virus. However, if you leave the diskette in the drive, and then turn the computer off or reload the operating system, the computer will look first in your A drive, find the diskette with its boot disk virus, load it, and make it temporarily impossible to use your hard disk. This is why you should make sure you have a bootable floppy.
• Macro viruses. These are among the most common viruses, and they tend to do the least damage. Macro viruses infect your Microsoft Word application and typically insert unwanted words or phrases.

How to protect yourself against viruses
The best protection against a virus is to know the origin of each program or file you load into your computer. Since this is difficult, you should install anti-virus software that typically checks all of your files periodically and removes any viruses that are found. For additional information, read the virus tips page

Virus Hoaxes!
From time to time, you may get an e-mail message warning of a new virus. Chances are good that the warning is a virus hoax and contain bogus information intended only to frighten or confuse users. Please check official antivirus sites before forwarding such emails. Both Mcafee and Norton websites have a section on hoaxes.

Essential Tips for Virus Protection

1. Purchase a Good, Commercial Antivirus Program Like Norton Antivirus or Mcafee Virusscan.
   Most commercial antivirus programs usually are reasonably inexpensive and can be purchased at almost any computer store in the world.
2. Enroll in SureNet's Email Virus Scanning service and protect your computer from infected emails.
3. Update your Virus Definitions frequently (at least once a week).
   With over 250 new viruses being discovered each week, if you don't update your definitions frequently you won't be protected from ANY of the new viruses floating around the Net. How do you update your virus definitions? That depends on the antivirus program you use, consult your software's documentation.
4. Never, ever, double-click (or launch) *ANY* new file, especially an Email Attachment, regardless of who the File is from, until you first Scan That File with your Antivirus Program.
   This is probably the most important rule of them all. There are currently hundreds of thousands of viruses out there, and any one of those viruses could be hiding in an email attachment. Beware of EVERY new file that is attached to an email message, even if it comes from someone you know.
5. Turn on Macro Virus Protection in Microsoft Word, and Beware of all Word Macros, especially if you don't know what Macros are.
   Word Macros are saved sequences of commands or keyboard strokes that can be stored and then recalled with a single command or keyboard stroke. They enable advanced Word users to easily accomplish what would otherwise be difficult tasks. They also allow virus writers to do serious damage to your computer. For example, the Melissa virus was actually a Word Macro virus. Set up your Virus software to scan for Macro Virus each time you launch WORD.
6. Run Windows Update at least Once a Month
   Windows is aptly named because it is full of holes. There are several, inadvertent 'open doors' (or 'security holes') in the Windows operating system that *COULD* conceivably make your computer vulnerable to a Virus attack. When the folks at Microsoft discover a security hole, they immediately release a software patch to close it. Running "Windows Update" will check for the availability of these patches as they come along, and offer to install the fix.

These five tips will not protect you from every computer virus, Trojan horse, or worm, but they will so significantly decrease your computer's chances of becoming infected that you can all but forget about the next virus scare and all the ones that will follow.

What are Email Virus / Worms?
Unlike an attached file that the user must execute, email viruses are actually embedded within the email itself. Attachments may also be involved and these attachments will automatically execute when the user reads, or, in certain cases, previews the email. Thus, email viruses differ from email-borne viruses, the latter which require users actually open the attachment in order to become infected. Historically, email viruses have targeted Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express users, though theoretically other mail clients could pose a risk. In any event, if an attachment is involved, the user can still choose to open it and become infected, as was the case with BadTrans.B , Nimda, Sircam, and most recently, the destructive Klez Internet Worm . For this reason, it is equally important to understand both how to prevent attachments from being automatically executed by the mail client and how to recognize potentially harmful attachment types.

How do I prevent email viruses?

Rule 1: Identification: Understanding the nature of the attachment is the first step towards email safety. Any executable type attachment has the potential to be infected. This covers a wide range of extensions, however most viruses arrive as an attachment with a .exe, .bat, .scr, .com, .lnk or .pif file extension.

Rule 2: Intent: An executable type attachment should not be opened unless it was specifically requested or expected. Since email worms are sent to addresses found on infected users' machines, just knowing the sender is no proof of intent. In fact, odds are an email worm will arrive from someone you know and the sender is oblivious to the viral email being sent from their machine. If you receive such an email from someone you know, email that person and ask if they intended to send you the attachment. If you don't know the sender, stifle your curiosity and delete the email.

Rule 3: Necessity: This is the simplest rule to follow, but one that many people ignore. If you do not need the attachment, don't open it. Delete the email instead.

Rule 4: Disable scripting: To date, email viruses have taken advantage of security vulnerabilities found in Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express. However, any mail client that supports HTML and scripting should be considered at risk.

Rule 5: Patch your system: Microsoft routinely releases approximately 100 security patches per year. Keeping abreast of these and understanding which are applicable to your system can be a daunting task. Microsoft simplifies this by providing a Windows update site. The site will automatically scan your system and provide a list of recommended updates specific to your operating system. Any included in the "Critical Updates" section should be installed. Of course, security is an ongoing process as new vulnerabilities are constantly discovered. You should make it a point to pay periodic visits to the update site to ensure necessary patches are in place.

Get Professional Help

If you require professional assistance eradicating potentially destructive viruses from your system, simply call tech support at 705-788-7873 or 1-866-700-1977 and make an appointment to bring your computer in to SureNet. For a modest fee, we will run a scan and rid your machine of all virus and spyware files.