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intrusions and infections that can lead to the compromise of your computer files or passwords. Ideally, virus protection soft- ware should be set to automatically update each week. The Windows XP operating system also can be set to automatically check for patches and download them to your computer.
• Do not open files sent to you by strangers, or click on hyper- links or download programs from people you don’t know . Be careful about using file-sharing programs. Opening a file could expose your system to a computer virus or a program known
as "spyware," which could capture your passwords or any other information as you type it into your keyboard.
• Use a firewall program. Especially if you use a high-speed Internet connection like cable, DSL or T-1 that leaves your com- puter connected to the Internet 24 hours a day. The firewall pro- gram will allow you to stop uninvited access to your computer. Without it, hackers can take over your computer, access the per- sonal information stored on it, or use it to commit other crimes.
• Use a secure browser . Most browsers use software that encrypts or scrambles information you send over the Internet—to guard your online transactions. Be sure your browser has the most up- to-date encryption capabilities by using the latest version avail- able from the manufacturer. You also can download some brows- ers for free over the Internet. When submitting information, look for the “lock” icon on the browser's status bar to be sure your information is secure during transmission.
• Try not to store financial information on your laptop unless absolutely necessary . If you do, use a strong password with a combination of letters (upper and lower case), numbers and symbols. A good way to create a strong password is to think of
a memorable phrase and use the first letter of each word as your password, converting some letters into numbers that resemble letters. For example, “I love Felix; he’s a good cat,” would become
Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft 63