======Keeping your computer secure======

=====GOOD PRACTICES FOR KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER PROTECTED=====

  * Use a firewall - Windows 10 and Windows 8 have a firewall already built in and automatically turned on.

  * Keep all software up to date - Make sure to turn on automatic updates in Windows Update to keep Windows, Microsoft Office, and other Microsoft applications up to date. Turn on automatic updates for non-Microsoft software as well, especially browsers, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and other apps you regularly use.

  * Use antivirus software and keep it current - If you run Windows 10 or Windows 8, you have Windows Security or Windows Defender Security Center already installed on your device. For Windows 7 computers, please download and install Trend Micro feee from the York website.

  * Make sure your passwords are well-chosen and protected

  * Don’t open suspicious attachments or click unusual links in messages.  They can appear in email, tweets, posts, online ads, messages, or attachments, and sometimes disguise themselves as known and trusted sources.

  * Browse the web safely -Avoid visiting sites that offer potentially illicit content. Many of these sites install malware on the fly or offer downloads that contain malware. Use a modern browser like Microsoft Edge, which can help block malicious websites and prevent malicious code from running on your computer.

  * Do not use USBs or other external devices unless you own them. To avoid infection by malware and viruses, ensure that all external devices either belong to you or come from a reliable source.