Win32 Virus Removal

Internet thieves are devious when it comes to strategies for tricking consumers into sending money or revealing financial information. To keep them at bay, here are some tips:

— Don't log into your bank account while using public computers, such as at a library, or free wireless connections at coffee shops, etc. Criminals often try to intercept Internet traffic, including passwords, from these locations.

— Watch for pop-up windows asking for personal information or warning of a virus. So-called "scareware"can frighten people into providing information, downloading malicious software or paying for its removal. Call your anti-virus software company if you need help.

— Don't rely on just one defense. Use a mix of security tools: Anti-virus software to block spyware and other malicious attacks; a "firewall"to stop hackers from accessing your computer; automatic anti-virus scans that run at least once a week. If you get a virus warning and aren't sure about it, contact your anti-virus vendor.

— Pay attention to toolbars atop your screen. Current versions of the most popular Internet browsers and search engines often indicate if you are visiting a suspicious Web site.

— Choose "strong"user IDs and passwords that are easy to remember but hard for hackers to guess. The strongest have a combination of letters and numbers and are at least 10 characters long. For online banking, choose IDs and passwords different from those you use for e-mail or social networking. Change your online banking password about every 90 days. If you remove a computer virus from your PC, immediately change your password.

— Consider a separate computer solely for online banking or shopping. An older or basic PC used only for those purposes can help evade the malicious software often picked up from Web browsing, e-mailing, social networking or playing games.

— Use computer security products from reputable companies. Read reviews from computer and consumer publications; choose products with high ratings for detecting problems and providing tech support for infected computers.

— When shopping online, deal with reputable merchants and beware of unbelievably low prices. If you're unsure about an unfamiliar merchant, check with the Better Business Bureau.

— Avoid scams hiding behind online coupons. Web sites offering legitimate coupons will ask for your e-mail address, not personal, financial or payment information.

— Be careful with cellphone banking software. When downloading mobile banking software, be wary, even if it displays a bank logo. Some may contain malicious software, giving hackers access to your account. To be safe, contact your bank before downloading banking applications to your cellphone.

SOURCE: FDIC

Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com