Never open the attachments from people you don't know and don't reply on suspicious message

Never click on links in the email or call the phone numbers from recorded messages either.  Hyperlinks in the most 'phishing' emails are hidden or cloaked, so what you see is NOT what you get. Besides, they may contain Spyware (Trojans, key loggers or/and screen capture devices) that will be installed undetected on your computer. 

Trojan gives the person who planted it unrestricted access to the data stored on your computer. Key logger allows him to record all your activities: every key pressed, every website visited, and even the information you enter online when you login into your bank, credit card or other password protected account. Capture devise can take snapshots of your entire desktop at set intervals.

Use anti-virus software and a firewall

And keep them up to date with legitimate upgrades issued by the software manufacturer: this will ensure you're receiving benefits of the latest security features.

Anti-virus software can detect and delete files containing virus before they attack your computer. A firewall filters the information coming through the Internet connection into your computer system and keeps destructive forces away from your property. It can also monitor outgoing information and block unauthorized Spyware programs from accessing the Internet

always look for security indicators

When submitting sensitive financial or personal information online always look for the lock icon on the Internet browser's status bar and be sure the website's URL  begins with “https://”. Be sure to sign-off websites or password secured web pages.

Try to make your online purchases only from legitimate online vendors who provide secure order forms and protect your personal information (always check Website's Privacy Policy).

check your credit card and bank account statements

Don’t toss them aside! Review your monthly statements  thoroughly as soon as you receive them and check for unauthorized transactions, even a small ones. Notify your bank right away if you see anything unusual and investigate unauthorized transactions immediately!

change your passwords frequently

And choose them wisely! Always use different username and password combinations for each account you have. When selecting your passwords  try using both letters and numbers together with a combination of lowercase and capital letters.

clean your computer from adware

Adware is a software that can be installed on your computer without you knowing it! Adware allows monitoring your Internet browsing and purchasing patterns, and even overwhelming you with annoying "pop up" ads!

Have you ever downloaded some mp3 or other files, and suddenly started getting hundreds of ads popping up on your screen? Well, your computer was definitely infected with AdWare then!

Nice (and free) option is 'Spybot - Search and Destroy'. Spybot detects spyware, adware, key loggers, Internet dialers, browser hijackers, and some trojan horse programs.

Check Your Credit Report Immediately!

If you ever opened an attachment or clicked on the links in suspicious email, you may be at risk of Identity theft even if you didn't provide your security information. You should get your credit report from Equifax, Experian or TransUnion immediately, and subscribe to credit monitoring service, which notifies you of any changes to your credit file.

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