Earthlink: Tech Tip - Your Security Resource

Tech Tip

Be Wary of ‘Share’ and ‘Like’ Promotions

Have you seen the recent Facebook hoax saying that that if 100 people share the post, a sick child will get a free heart transplant? Any kind of post that says a single click can do something extraordinary is a hoax. Don't repost.

Set Your Default Privacy in Flickr

If you're a Flickr user and don't want the world seeing your photos, go to "You" > "Your Account" > "Default Privacy" > "Privacy & Permissions," where you can set who is allowed to see and share the photos you upload.

Watch Your Siri Settings

Using an iPhone 4S? The Siri personal assistant software is pretty neat, but it has a big security flaw: It's set by default to be accessible even when your phone is locked. Go to "Settings," "General" and then "Passcode Lock," then turn the Siri lever to "Off" so Siri doesn't give a thief backdoor access to your phone.

Don’t Fall for Work-at-home Scams

Do you know anybody who got rich stuffing envelopes or processing medical claims? No, because it doesn't happen. There are no legitimate get-rich-quick methods, especially not ones you can do from your own home. So don't take the bait when it arrives in your inbox.

Change Your Passwords

The first of the year is a great time to change all of your major passwords. And this time, use a password strength tester online to create something a little less crackable. Make it a regular New Year's thing.

New Computer? Protect It Immediately

If you scored a new PC this holiday season, don’t put off the most important thing you can do to protect it: install antivirus software. Make that the first thing you do, before transferring files and downloading applications.

Make a New Year’s Resolution to Back Up

Been putting off regularly backing up your files? Start off 2012 right with a commitment to do regular backups through a site like Mozy or Dropbox, or with a small external hard drive.

File a Complaint

If you've been defrauded online, visit the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.org) to file a formal complaint. IC3 is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center and can refer cases to the appropriate authorities.

Safely Ditch That Old Computer

Ready to dump your old machine? Visit EcoSquid.com to find local environment-friendly places that will recycle your device. Just make sure to wipe your hard drive clean first.

Opt out of LinkedIn Ads

Surprise: LinkedIn might be using your name and photo in its on-site advertising. Unfortunately, the site requires you to opt out. You can turn off this feature under "Settings," then "Account," then "Manage Social Advertising."

More >

More Features

Symantec Security Check

Test your computer's exposure to online security threats and learn how to make your computer more secure.

Test

Symantec Tools

Norton Solutions

Protect your family computer from viruses and other threats.

Visit

Internet Security Threat Report

Vol. XIV

This report offers analysis and discussion of threat activity over a six-month period.

Visit