Computer users urged to take security measures

COMPUTER users will be urged to “get secure and stay secure” by tackling the threat of viruses, malicious attacks and hackers when the first national computer security day takes place tomorrow.

More than 800,000 leaflets advising people how to remain protected on their PCs will be distributed, while adverts will run in the papers and on radio. A website has also been established.

“Make IT Secure Day” is a joint initiative between the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Microsoft, Eircom, Dell, Esat BT, HP, Symantec, Ward Solutions and the Information Society Commission.

They have teamed up to urge more individuals and businesses to take steps, to make their computer systems secure.

Caroline Morahan, co-host of RTÉ’s Off the Rails fashion show, has been named as “consumer ambassador” for the campaign.

“A few simple precautions are all that are required to make sure that your online experience is enjoyable and risk-free,” she said yesterday. “I would encourage everyone to log on to the campaign website - www.makeitsecure.ie - for all the tips they need.”

The website offers a list of “dos and don’ts”, which include:

Do keep your anti-virus software up to date.

Do keep your operating system software up to date.

Do ensure, if you are sending sensitive personal information, that your connection is secure.

Do ensure that you have set your web browser’s security settings to a sufficiently high level to warn you when you are unintentionally downloading files and cookies from the internet.

Do use passwords to protect your system and do change them regularly.

Don’t open email attachments from strangers.

Don’t open email attachments from people you know if you are unsure of what the attachment contains.