New attacks and vulnerabilities are discovered every day - the best way to stay up to date is to turn on automatic updates in your operating system.

The most common way for a system to get infected is because the user opens an e-mail attachment that  is disguised malware, virus. or key logging.  If you want to open an attachment, make sure you know who sent it to you - if you're not sure - call!

If you get an e-mail that asks you to click on their link to update your information - it's fake. If you need to update your account info with any business - you type in their address in your browser and you'll know you're going to the legitimate site or do it in person.

You must have an antivirus / antimalware program installed on your computer (but only one!).

Don't pay for expensive anti-virus or anti-malware programs, ask Burnout about excellent free-ware programs to save you some cash!

Make sure to always connect your power cables to surge protectors. Florida is the nations capital for lighting strikes.

Passwords; write them down and put them in a safe location! Although passwords can be retrieved if lost, it is a process that requires some expertise.

Save all your files in a central location such as 'My Documents.' When it comes to backing up your files, it's a lot easier if you have them all in one place! Backup your files often! Ask us about solutions for making backups automated.

If you are having blue screens there is one thing to remember; they do not go away on thier own.

Even if you are the only one to use your computer, you should have two user accounts, one 'administrator account' which you only use to perform updates, install or remove programs, etc. Use a second 'limited account' for day to day on the computer. A limited account can prevent unwanted programs, such as Trojans, to be installed without you knowing.