So, your parents have finally joined the rest of the world and gotten a computer. Here’s how you can help make their online experience enjoyable and safe: • Suggest they take an introductory computer/Internet class. (Some local community centers may offer this for free—also try the library, community college, or even a senior center.) Review…

Check your online security savvy. How many of these common myths did you believe? Myth 1. Installing and using antivirus software is enough to protect my system from viruses Having antivirus software is critical to protect your system from viruses, but you need to make sure your security is up to date, and that’s a…

Internet hoaxes have been around almost as long as the Internet because the technology provides a perfect vehicle for spreading an urban legend. All you have to do is post a “tall tale” on a website or send it in an email and it seems that in no time everyone is chattering about it. See…

There are hundreds of scams on the Internet today. While some are entirely plausible, others are so farfetched they make you laugh. Yet, for the, ahem—gullible, these can be costly and dangerous. Here are five classic viral scams that have tricked many people over the years: SCAM #1: A wealthy Nigerian needs your help to…

Five little words you do not want to hear: “Your computer has a virus.” Even if you know almost nothing about computers, you know this is bad. So why would anyone create a virus anyway!? Malware, short for malicious software, includes many types of software written with the intent of harming your computer, invading your…

Social media (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, blogging, etc) can be a great way to communicate and catch up with friends, old and new, but it can certainly have a downside as well. The problems most often occur when the line between personal and professional life is crossed. So what should you avoid, at all costs, while…