We all spend or will spend a great deal of time on the internet. As I am just getting started and it dawned on me that I should set up more computer protection for the sake of my business and clients.

What services or products do you use to protect your computer from viruses, hackers and the like?

Thanks!

This is a great question. I am new to this as well. Right now I only have Windows Defender, Spybot, Ad-ware, and the norton suite. I wonder if that is enough?

I only use Windows Defender and AVG Spyware/Anti-virus. I feel like that's enough for me. The other things to consider regarding overall security when working for your clients will be the security of how you share information, any confidential files that they don't want to be easily accessed, any passwords or online collaboration tools that you share as well as how you intend to securely backup you & your client's files.

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Kimberly
Facebook Marketing Magic!

I use windows defender and i dont think its quit enough. i have had some trojan ware on my computer and it has notified me, but then it seems to come back. im not even sure where its coming from. im looking for something better. ive had norton and it seemed to make my computer run slow.

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www.virtualofficeexpress.com

Security is a big issue for me since I house a lot of very personal information for people. I've tried to install multiple security measures to protect my clients private information (as well as my own).

Here are some of the features I have in place so far:

- Internet connections including wireless routers are password protected with firewalls in place
- Defense wise I currently have Ad-Aware, Spybot and McAfee per recommendations by my computer guru
- I have passwords in place on my desktop, accounting programs, tax programs, etc.
- I have all file sharing options on my computer turned off and I password protect any file that has sensitive information
- I do not store any of my clients information on my laptop (in case it would get stolen) rather I have it all stored on my desktop at home and access it via remote when out of the office
- I always ask clients to black out bank accounts numbers, social security numbers, etc. on any file they email or fax me
- I have heavy duty locking file cabinets for storing hard copies
- I don't use programs that store and remember passwords for me and I have that feature turned off in IE
- I shred any printed info that has sensitive info on it (I need a new shredder)
- Last but not least, I have a security alarm on the house.

I'm interested in hearing what measures others use that I may be able to implement as well. I don't believe you can be too secure in this day and age.

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Rebecka Melson ~ Virtual Business Services

Thanks everyone for your replies. We all need to be vigilent!

Originally Posted by Rebecka

Security is a big issue for me since I house a lot of very personal information for people. I've tried to install multiple security measures to protect my clients private information (as well as my own). Here are some of the features I have in place so far: - Internet connections including wireless routers are password protected with firewalls in place - Defense wise I currently have Ad-Aware, Spybot and McAfee per recommendations by my computer guru - I have passwords in place on my desktop, accounting programs, tax programs, etc. - I have all file sharing options on my computer turned off and I password protect any file that has sensitive information - I do not store any of my clients information on my laptop (in case it would get stolen) rather I have it all stored on my desktop at home and access it via remote when out of the office - I always ask clients to black out bank accounts numbers, social security numbers, etc. on any file they email or fax me - I have heavy duty locking file cabinets for storing hard copies - I don't use programs that store and remember passwords for me and I have that feature turned off in IE - I shred any printed info that has sensitive info on it (I need a new shredder) - Last but not least, I have a security alarm on the house. I'm interested in hearing what measures others use that I may be able to implement as well. I don't believe you can be too secure in this day and age.

Wow, you have a wonderful security system in place all around, Rebecka. I like how thorough you are. I am sure it reflects in your work too. I am going to copy your list and implement some of those ideas if you don't mind.

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Delilah Smith
Caliber Virtual Services

Originally Posted by DelilahS

Wow, you have a wonderful security system in place all around, Rebecka. I like how thorough you are. I am sure it reflects in your work too. I am going to copy your list and implement some of those ideas if you don't mind.

Implement away! I don't think we can be too safe, especially those of us who are bookkeepers and tax preparers that handle such confidential information.

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Rebecka Melson ~ Virtual Business Services

Great security features Rebecka. I have many of these in place and I don't have a home security alarm - just the dog. One thing I do have is a locked door to my office. This way when I have friends and family over, they cannot accidentially access the room.

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Internet Marketing Specialist
Back Pocket Business Solutions

Thanks for sharing Rebecka - seems like you are very organized and have it all in place! I'm glad to hear what your computer guru said as I have McAfee and Ad-Aware too!

I don't have a security system but maybe I'll get a big dog!! LOL

Lori