I will continue to edit and update this page as often as possible to include the latest information about Internet security.

The information provided not only on this page but on any of the Arena sites is of a general nature and by reading this you acknowledge that it is provided on a "use at your own risk" basis. We have taken every precaution to ensure the information is correct and safe however the managers and members of this group shall in no way be held responsible or accountable for any damages whatsoever as a result of following this advice and or using the recommended software. Unfortunately we cannot provide tech support on any of the recommended applications, there are associated websites and help files for that.


Viruses

To prevent virus infections Grisoft have provided free antivirus software. AVG Antivirus features; email scanning, scan scheduling, free online viral definitions, program updates and an easy to use interface. download it here

There are websites that can scan your machine for viruses while you are online, sometimes a clever virus can take out your virus scanner first up. To Use any of these services click the links below

Panda ActiveScan
McAfee FreeScan
Trend Micro HouseCall (ActiveX)
Trend Micro HouseCall (Java)

or download and run one of these free standalone virus removal tools

Avast! Virus Cleaner
McAfee AVERT Stinger



Firewalls

A Firewall is like a gateway on your computer, monitoring software trying to access your computer from the internet and software installed on your computer trying to access the internet. Although not totally full proof it provides good protection against hackers. Some good free firewalls can be downloaded here

Zone Alarm
OutPost


Once you have a firewall installed you can go to the GRC website to test its effectiveness, once here take the time to read, this guy is very good, he knows his stuff where security is concerned. Be sure to run both the shields up test and the leak test, this will expose things like open ports and potential back doors in your system.


Spyware


Programs that you download from the internet may contain spyware that will report certain habits and activities to another party. Thay can make your computer run slow and do unusual things. Here are some good applications that will help you combat this activity.

Ad-aware
GIANT AntiSpyware
Pest Patrol
Spybot Search & Destroy
Webroot Spy Sweeper

Click here for a list of Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware Products & Web Sites

Scanning for spyware and adware isn't enough to protect your PC. You also need to take preventative steps to ensure that unwanted software doesn't come back. One effective way to prevent spyware and adware from returning is to install an anti-spyware prevention program such as:

SpywareBlaster
SpywareGuard

SpywareBlaster and SpywareGuard are excellent, free programs from JavaCool. I recommend installing and using both, as they protect your computer in different ways. SpywareBlaster "inoculates" your Internet Explorer browser against the installation of unwanted spyware and adware from the internet. SpywareGuard actively monitors your PC and prevents spyware infestations. Both are easy to install and update.

One very useful application in combating spyware and even some trojans is "HijackThis". This application will scan your system and output a log file that will enable the experts to determine what is wrong. HijackThis can be downloaded from HERE . Once you have run this do NOT attempt to fix it yourself as you can cause damage to your system, instead post on one of the forums below in a well worded post describing the symptoms as accurately as possible, include the log and then patiently await a reply

SpywareInfo
Net-Integration
Aumha
Spyware Warrior
CastleCops
Tech Support Guy
Cexx.org
TomCoyote


Windows Updates

Frequently check for updates for your operating system from the windows update site. Install all service packs and critical updates. Potentially your biggest security risk comes from your operating system, scanners and firewalls may miss inappropriate data targeting specific applications and using their authorised ports, media player and messenger are two examples.


Further Reading:

Protecting your computer from malicious code

Microsoft Security at Home

Home Computer Security

Ten Commandments for Your Computer Sanity

Cheers
FireHorse