For Virus Removal Virus Protection is Essential

There are many subtle signs of a computer virus that a casual computer user may not even notice at first. Some of those subtle signs can be like the computer starting to freeze up for no apparent reason or the screen appearing to blink all of a sudden. For many computer users these small clues can go undiscovered and the next thing they know the computer has locked up on them or is doing bizarre things. Programs closing without being prompted, screens popping up stating a specific removal virus program must be purchased to remove the virus they are saying the computer has and other bizarre and unspecified problems are just a few examples that may happen when a virus truly is infecting the computer. Some viruses are able to take control of the desktop locking the user out and taking away the control. Viruses of this nature can be very difficult to identify and even harder to remove.

Removal virus programs are available that can alert the user the virus has found its way on the computer and in addition to removal virus protection programs are recommended to prevent them getting on in the first place. Much of the time a new or refurbished computer when purchased will have a trial period for a computer security protection program giving the purchaser an opportunity to try out the software program and to realize the importance of having one.

Leaving a computer vulnerable to the internet and its capacity to pass viruses on to other computers undetected can destroy the computer and leave the owner wondering what happened. Protect your interest when getting a computer and make sure it has the same assurance of protection one would want for their automobile especially if running a business.

For more information on viruses and removing them, visit RemovalVirusHelp.wordpress.com

From J. Pal, a freelance writer on a wide variety of topics.

While Surfing the Internet, Don't Send Your Personal Data Out to Sea

You're reading this article on the Internet, right? Probably been surfing for a while, checking a few blogs, maybe doing some online shopping. Fun stuff. Just keep in mind that while you're surfing the 'net, don't toss your personal data out to sea where it's available for anyone to view, or worse, use.

This article lists a few precautionary tips for keeping your private data private while using the Internet:

• When you register for an email account, don't use your home address, private phone number, or other personal information. Instead, use a personal mailbox address, a work phone number, etc. Keep in mind there are online services that sell people's registration information to anyone.
• It's a good idea to have a "throw-away" email address that you use for online shopping, forms that require an email address, etc. You can set up such email addresses at Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail, others (although you're required to register your data at these sites, you can sign up as Mickey Mouse at 1234 Big Ears Circle for all they care). Hushmail is another option (check out hushmail.com).
• Choose an e-mail account that does not reveal unnecessary information about you, such as where you attend school. For example, an e-mail address from a free Webmail service might be preferable to one with a .edu domain.
• Choose unusual passwords and change them regularly. Make passwords at least 7 letters long and include numbers mixed with meta-characters when possible (for example, s*72wt#8%). Never share your passwords with anyone.
• Don't open unsolicited or unknown email messages, and especially don't open any attachments from unknown users.
• Consider using an anonymous web browser. This will make it impossible for your web-surfing to be logged by websites, thus preventing others to pick up any information on you. Information on this service is located at http://www.anonymizer.com.
• When you register for a domain (your website address), don't use your home address or other personal information. Anyone can look up the owner of a domain name by using a service such as http://www.checkdomain.com or simply typing "whois" and the domain name. For example, use your personal mailbox instead of your home address. Better yet, for a small fee you can select an option to make all registration information private.
• Use anti-virus software, a firewall, and anti-spyware software to keep your computer safe and secure.
• Set your privacy settings on social networking communities (such as MySpace, Facebook, etc.) so your photos and personal data aren't viewable by the public. Set options that filter who can be added as a friend, etc., to your account. Remember, if you choose to be public on these sites, anybody can read anything you write.
• Discuss your safety and privacy requirements with your Internet service provider (ISP) and enlist their help and advice. You're paying them to use their service, and you have a right to assistance.

By taking such steps to safeguard your personal data, you'll ensure your private data stays private. Now grab your virtual surfboard and hit the Internet waves!

Colleen Collins-Kaufman is a professional private investigator and multi-published author. She and her business partner run a Colorado-based private detective agency, Highlands Investigations & Legal Services, Inc., that specializes in asset/background searches, criminal/civil investigations, domestic relations, legal research/writing, financial fraud, personal injury, skiptracing, and surveillance. To read more about their services, go to http://www.highlandsinvestigations.com