The only difference between internet safety and everyday safety is the tools we use. Try to practice internet safety and cybercrime prevention with the same concern, common sense and enthusiasm you have for everyday crime prevention.
Show respect for yourself and others in public places, including on the internet. If you received a private answer to your question or comments in a forum, chatroom, or newsgroup, have the courtesy to post the response you received. Try not to use obscene or confrontational language. Remember that the person you are emailing or sometimes texting can't see you or the expressions on your face. So, be careful with your words and the jokes or sarcasms you write. An angry response will most likely produce another angry response. Avoid flame wars by not responding repeatedly to an angry person corresponding with you. If you are in a discussion group, forum, or chatroom that is making you uncomfortable, leave and disconnect from the internet. Then, reconnect.
Use an extension cable between your computer and modem (dial-up, wireless, broadband or satellite) so you can easily connect and disconnect the cable without harming the sensitive connectors of your computer and modem from constant use. Any computer with a connection available to the internet is susceptible to intruders and infections although your chances drastically reduce when you use firewalls, encryption, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. One alternative is to shut off your computer when you are not using it. Another alternative is to disconnect the electricity from your computer when you are not using it. However, besides being impractical, constantly disconnecting and reconnecting the electricity reduces the life of your computer's internal battery.
Back-up your personal files regularly just in case your computer is stolen or crashes. Use an external drive or removable media. Just as you do not carry on your person everyday all your (or your family's) credit cards, social security cards, or safe deposit box keys, don't store any personal or sensitive information (including passwords and credit card/banking information) on your computer's hard drive. Store this information on removable media or drive so it is available when you need it. Remember to store a back-up copy in a safe place.
Use the most recent version of installed programs. The latest version of a program typically tries to fix known problems or security vulnerabilities with the previous version.
Download and install current security fixes, updates and patches for your operating system and all installed programs (not only the programs you use regularly). Be sure to download the updates from the software manufacturer's website. Downloads directly from an email link (immediately downloading without being directed to the manufacturer's website) can be contain infections even if the email convincingly says otherwise. Vendors will send notices to opt-in subscribers through email when updates are available if they offer this service. The links in these emails will often go to the vendor's website. They are not direct links to the download.
Check and maintain safety devices - fire alarms, burglar alarms, smoke detectors, backup power supplies, anti-virus software updates, operating system and installed program security updates. Take the time to practice safety procedures - fire exits, contacting emergency personnel for possible safety compromising situations in your everyday life and with internet activities, examine emails and everyday situations for infectors, scams and fraud.
Secure your computer. You lock your doors and windows to your home and car when you are not there. Do the same with your computer and electronic devices. Don't allow your home, car or computer to be available to strangers, intruders or thieves. Use firewalls, lock features, updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Be sure that both incoming and outgoing firewall protection is active.
Try to maintain a separate home computer for confidential, business, and valuable information from children or person