Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/tips-to-avoid-getting-taken-for-a-ride-when-buying-a-used-car.html
Tips To Avoid Getting Taken For A Ride When Buying A Used CarOur society has seen a shift in consumer spending with Americans looking for ways to save more of their hard earned cash. Many of those people are prolonging buying a new vehicle in favor of keeping the one they have on the road longer. For those that are in the market to purchase another vehicle, more people are opting for a used car versus shelling out the big bucks for a new vehicle. Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, however consumers are advised to proceed with caution and fully research both the vehicle and seller before finalizing a sale. Here are a few tips to avoid getting taken for a ride when purchasing a used vehicle.
* Verify documentation- If you are searching for a used car and find a deal that appears too good to be true, it probably is. The Better Business Bureau has issued a warning to potential car buyers about VIN cloning. This occurs when a car is stolen and in an attempt to avoid arrest and make money off of the stolen vehicle, the thief clones the VIN (vehicle identification number) to match that of car that hasn't been stolen. To avoid falling victim to this scam, check the VIN number on the dash as well as inside the door panel and under the hood to ensure it matches the title. Read all documents carefully and be on the lookout for discrepancies or misspelling that may indicate the document is not original. Vehicles that are sold for quick cash at a price that is significantly lower than normal should be considered suspicious.
* Buy a car history report- To save money you sometimes have to spend money. Buying a car history report may cost you a few bucks upfront, however the information contained on the report could very well save you thousands of dollars in the long run. A car history report will clear up any questions you may have about the car you are considering. The report will confirm the VIN number, record accidents the car may have been involved in and provide information regarding possible liens against the vehicle. Having this information before taking ownership of the car will help you avoid buying a used car that is better left on the lot.
* Question the seller- You have the right to ask the seller certain questions about the car's history, maintenance and performance to get a better idea of the value of the vehicle. Pay close attention to the answers and the manner in which the seller interacts with you as a potential buyer. Buying a car from a private sell could very well result in well maintained quality vehicle at a reasonable price. If however you get a feeling that the seller is not simply selling a vehicle he or she used themselves, you may question how they obtained the car and their motive for selling.
Carefully research the history of a used car and avoid rushing into a sale for the sake of getting a good "deal". There are thousands of used cars available and finding the right one will save you time, money and aggravation down the road.
By Trisha Wagner
Monday, September 14, 2009
Your 5-minute Guide to Protecting Your Identity
Your 5-minute Guide to Protecting Your Identity
Your 5-minute Guide to Protecting Your IdentityThieves may sell your information on the black market or use it to obtain money, credit or even expensive medical procedures. Unless you're vigilant in protecting your records, you'll have to work even harder to repair the damage to your credit. The average victim spends 30 to 40 hours rectifying the problem.
Some of the e-threats to your identity are:
* Phishing. You get an e-mail that appears to be from your bank or an online service, most often PayPal or eBay, instructing you to click on a link and provide information to verify your account.
* Pharming or spoofing. Hackers redirect a legitimate Web site's traffic to an impostor site, where you'll be asked to provide confidential information. Scammers have been targeting social networking sites, such as Facebook.
* Smishing. This is phishing done with text messaging on your smart phone. It instructs you to visit a bogus Web site.
* Spyware. You've unknowingly downloaded illicit software when you've opened an attachment, clicked on a pop-up or downloaded a song or a game. Criminals can use spyware to record your keystrokes and obtain credit card numbers, bank-account information and passwords when you make purchases or conduct other business online. They also can access confidential information on your hard drive.
You don't need to have a computer to become a victim.
* Vishing -- voice phishing. You get an automated phone message asking you to call your bank or credit card company. Even your caller ID is fooled. You call the number and are asked to punch in your account number, PIN or other personal information.
* Bank-card "skimming." Crooks use a combination of a fake ATM slot and cameras to record your account information and PIN when you use a cash machine. Your credit or debit card also can be skimmed by a dishonest store or restaurant worker armed with a portable card reader.
* Crooks will steal your wallet or go through your mail or trash.
More than half of identity theft cases involve credit card fraud. Checking accounts are the second most popular target. But some crooks have other plans:
* At least 250,000 people a year have been victims of medical identity theft for the last several years. Crooks use fraudulently obtained personal information to get expensive medical procedures or dupe insurance companies into paying for procedures that were not done.
* The victims of about 5% of reported identity theft cases are children. The fraud often goes undetected for years -- until the young adult applies for credit. Even the dead aren't safe.
22 tips to protect yourself
You can take steps to protect yourself from identity fraud:
* Keep your confidential information private. Your bank or credit card company won't call or e-mail to ask for your account information. They already have it.
* Keep an inventory of everything in your wallet and your PDA, including account numbers. Don't keep your Social Security card or any card with your Social Security number, such as an insurance card, in your wallet.
* Order and review your credit report. You are allowed one free report each year from each of the three major credit agencies. Order reports here; it is the only place to get them for free.
* Stop getting banking and credit card information in the mail.
* Monitor your bank and credit card transactions for unauthorized use. Crooks with your account numbers usually start small to see if you'll notice. The sooner you catch them, the easier the problems are to clear up.
* Keep your vehicle registration and insurance forms in a sealed envelope in your glove box and lock it and your car when at home or away.
* If you conduct business online, use your own computer. A public computer is less secure, as is wireless Internet.
* Look for suspicious devices and don't let anyone stand nearby when you use an ATM. Take your card and receipt with you. Keep your PIN in your head, not in your wallet.
* Don't store credit card numbers and other financial information on your cell phone.
* If you're job hunting using résumé Web sites, don't apply unless the employer has a verifiable address.
* Once you no longer need to store them, shred any bills or statements that have your personal information on them.
Protect your computer from vulnerability:
* Keep system and browser software up to date and set to the highest security level you can tolerate. Install antivirus, antispyware and firewall protection, and keep them up to date as well. When possible, use hardware firewalls, often available through your broadband connection router.
* If you use wireless Internet access, make sure you get help from someone who understands wireless security when you set up your access point or router.
* Back up your data and store it way from your computer.
* Don't open e-mails from strangers. Malware can be hidden in embedded attachments and graphics files.
* Don't open attachments unless you know who sent them and what they contain. Never open executable attachments. Configure Windows so that the file extensions of known file types are not hidden.
* Don't click on pop-ups. Configure Windows or your Web browser to block them.
* Don't provide your credit card number online unless you are making a purchase from a Web site you trust. Reputable sites will always direct you to a secure page with a URL starting with https:// whenever you actually make purchases or are asked to provide confidential information.
* Use strong passwords: at least six characters, including at least one symbol and number, and no reference to your name or other personal information. Use a different password for every site that requires one, and change passwords regularly.
* Never send a user name, password or other confidential information via e-mail.
* Consider turning off your computer when you're not using it or at least putting it in standby mode.
* Don't keep passwords, tax returns or other financial information on your hard drive.
8 steps to clean up the mess
If you suspect your identity may be compromised, place a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus. When you place an alert, you are entitled to a free copy of your credit report. After that, take advantage of the free annual reports the bureaus are required to give all consumers. Stagger your requests so that you get a report every four months. Beware: A fraud alert applies only when someone tries to open a new line of credit. It won’t keep someone from using existing accounts.
If you've been phished, contact the real bank or other company named in the fraudulent e-mail. You also may want to notify the Internet Crime Complaint Center and forward the e-mail to spam@uce.gov.
If you are the victim of identity theft, take the following steps:
* Make an identity-theft report to the police. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Also, contact the office of your state's attorney general; you may be able to file a report there. Get copies of all this paperwork and keep them in a safe place.
* Close accounts that have been tampered with. Contact each company by phone and again by certified letter. Make sure the company notifies you in writing that the disputed charges have been erased. Document each conversation and keep all records.
* Place a seven-year fraud alert or a "freeze" on your credit reports.
* Begin the process of having the fraudulent information removed from your credit reports.
* Consider purchasing identity theft insurance. It cannot protect you from becoming a victim of identity theft, but it can help you pay the cost of reclaiming your financial identity. Be wary of identity theft protection services; the Consumer Federation of America has found they may not be worth the cost.
* Find victim support at the Identity Theft Resource Center.
* If you are the victim of medical identity theft, avail yourself of the helpful information provided by the World Privacy Forum.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/your-5-minute-guide-to-protecting-your-identity.html
Your 5-minute Guide to Protecting Your IdentityThieves may sell your information on the black market or use it to obtain money, credit or even expensive medical procedures. Unless you're vigilant in protecting your records, you'll have to work even harder to repair the damage to your credit. The average victim spends 30 to 40 hours rectifying the problem.
Some of the e-threats to your identity are:
* Phishing. You get an e-mail that appears to be from your bank or an online service, most often PayPal or eBay, instructing you to click on a link and provide information to verify your account.
* Pharming or spoofing. Hackers redirect a legitimate Web site's traffic to an impostor site, where you'll be asked to provide confidential information. Scammers have been targeting social networking sites, such as Facebook.
* Smishing. This is phishing done with text messaging on your smart phone. It instructs you to visit a bogus Web site.
* Spyware. You've unknowingly downloaded illicit software when you've opened an attachment, clicked on a pop-up or downloaded a song or a game. Criminals can use spyware to record your keystrokes and obtain credit card numbers, bank-account information and passwords when you make purchases or conduct other business online. They also can access confidential information on your hard drive.
You don't need to have a computer to become a victim.
* Vishing -- voice phishing. You get an automated phone message asking you to call your bank or credit card company. Even your caller ID is fooled. You call the number and are asked to punch in your account number, PIN or other personal information.
* Bank-card "skimming." Crooks use a combination of a fake ATM slot and cameras to record your account information and PIN when you use a cash machine. Your credit or debit card also can be skimmed by a dishonest store or restaurant worker armed with a portable card reader.
* Crooks will steal your wallet or go through your mail or trash.
More than half of identity theft cases involve credit card fraud. Checking accounts are the second most popular target. But some crooks have other plans:
* At least 250,000 people a year have been victims of medical identity theft for the last several years. Crooks use fraudulently obtained personal information to get expensive medical procedures or dupe insurance companies into paying for procedures that were not done.
* The victims of about 5% of reported identity theft cases are children. The fraud often goes undetected for years -- until the young adult applies for credit. Even the dead aren't safe.
22 tips to protect yourself
You can take steps to protect yourself from identity fraud:
* Keep your confidential information private. Your bank or credit card company won't call or e-mail to ask for your account information. They already have it.
* Keep an inventory of everything in your wallet and your PDA, including account numbers. Don't keep your Social Security card or any card with your Social Security number, such as an insurance card, in your wallet.
* Order and review your credit report. You are allowed one free report each year from each of the three major credit agencies. Order reports here; it is the only place to get them for free.
* Stop getting banking and credit card information in the mail.
* Monitor your bank and credit card transactions for unauthorized use. Crooks with your account numbers usually start small to see if you'll notice. The sooner you catch them, the easier the problems are to clear up.
* Keep your vehicle registration and insurance forms in a sealed envelope in your glove box and lock it and your car when at home or away.
* If you conduct business online, use your own computer. A public computer is less secure, as is wireless Internet.
* Look for suspicious devices and don't let anyone stand nearby when you use an ATM. Take your card and receipt with you. Keep your PIN in your head, not in your wallet.
* Don't store credit card numbers and other financial information on your cell phone.
* If you're job hunting using résumé Web sites, don't apply unless the employer has a verifiable address.
* Once you no longer need to store them, shred any bills or statements that have your personal information on them.
Protect your computer from vulnerability:
* Keep system and browser software up to date and set to the highest security level you can tolerate. Install antivirus, antispyware and firewall protection, and keep them up to date as well. When possible, use hardware firewalls, often available through your broadband connection router.
* If you use wireless Internet access, make sure you get help from someone who understands wireless security when you set up your access point or router.
* Back up your data and store it way from your computer.
* Don't open e-mails from strangers. Malware can be hidden in embedded attachments and graphics files.
* Don't open attachments unless you know who sent them and what they contain. Never open executable attachments. Configure Windows so that the file extensions of known file types are not hidden.
* Don't click on pop-ups. Configure Windows or your Web browser to block them.
* Don't provide your credit card number online unless you are making a purchase from a Web site you trust. Reputable sites will always direct you to a secure page with a URL starting with https:// whenever you actually make purchases or are asked to provide confidential information.
* Use strong passwords: at least six characters, including at least one symbol and number, and no reference to your name or other personal information. Use a different password for every site that requires one, and change passwords regularly.
* Never send a user name, password or other confidential information via e-mail.
* Consider turning off your computer when you're not using it or at least putting it in standby mode.
* Don't keep passwords, tax returns or other financial information on your hard drive.
8 steps to clean up the mess
If you suspect your identity may be compromised, place a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus. When you place an alert, you are entitled to a free copy of your credit report. After that, take advantage of the free annual reports the bureaus are required to give all consumers. Stagger your requests so that you get a report every four months. Beware: A fraud alert applies only when someone tries to open a new line of credit. It won’t keep someone from using existing accounts.
If you've been phished, contact the real bank or other company named in the fraudulent e-mail. You also may want to notify the Internet Crime Complaint Center and forward the e-mail to spam@uce.gov.
If you are the victim of identity theft, take the following steps:
* Make an identity-theft report to the police. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Also, contact the office of your state's attorney general; you may be able to file a report there. Get copies of all this paperwork and keep them in a safe place.
* Close accounts that have been tampered with. Contact each company by phone and again by certified letter. Make sure the company notifies you in writing that the disputed charges have been erased. Document each conversation and keep all records.
* Place a seven-year fraud alert or a "freeze" on your credit reports.
* Begin the process of having the fraudulent information removed from your credit reports.
* Consider purchasing identity theft insurance. It cannot protect you from becoming a victim of identity theft, but it can help you pay the cost of reclaiming your financial identity. Be wary of identity theft protection services; the Consumer Federation of America has found they may not be worth the cost.
* Find victim support at the Identity Theft Resource Center.
* If you are the victim of medical identity theft, avail yourself of the helpful information provided by the World Privacy Forum.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/your-5-minute-guide-to-protecting-your-identity.html
5 Simple Ways to Speed Up Your PC
There are many ways to improve computer performance, from hardware upgrades to editing the Registry. But upgrading hardware can be quite expensive and editing the Windows Registry can seriously harm your computer if you do something wrong. This article focused on simple and safe tweaks that will not cause any trouble and will make your computer run faster.
1) Speed Up Windows Explorer
Sometimes starting Windows Explorer can take a while. This is because Windows automatically looks for network files, shared network folders, and devices when you start Windows Explorer. It is possible to make it open faster by changing the settings:
Open Windows Explorer
Click on Tools menu
Then click on Folder Options
Click on the View tab
Find Automatically search for network folders and printers check box and uncheck it
Click Apply, then click OK
Reboot your PC
From now on Windows Explorer will start faster, as it will no longer automatically search for network files, shared folders, and devices in the network.
2) Optimize Appearance Settings
We all are used to how Windows XP looks. But actually its visual effects waste system resources. The graphics card is not the only one that has to deal with it - the CPU and the memory are affected as well. Windows Vista graphics are even more advanced and can dramatically slow down your PC, especially if your computer is not one of the latest and the fastest ones.
Luckily there is a way to configure Windows XP for best performance by reducing the effects in the graphical user interface. This will free up RAM and increase computer speed. To configure Windows XP for maximum performance do the following:
Go to Start - Settings and select Control Panel
In the Control Panel, click System and then Advanced tab
In the Performance Options window select Adjust for best performance
Click OK to confirm and close the window
This will turn off all visual effects, which is good for less powerful PCs and laptops. However, if you would like Windows XP to look more like what you’re used to, leave the following boxes ticked:
Show shadows under menus
Show shadows under mouse pointer
Show translucent selection rectangle
Use drop shadows for icons labels on the desktop
Use visual styles on windows and buttons
3) Uninstall Unused Device Drivers
Once you have uninstalled a device, it’s a good idea to remove any device drivers that were left behind. Otherwise those drivers will still be using valuable system resources. Here is why this happens.
When you install a device, you also install its drivers and they get called each time you boot up your PC. And even when the device has been removed, but the drivers are still there, your system continues to load them at boot up. What a waste of resources!
If you have Windows XP, follow these steps to remove any unwanted device drivers:
Press the Windows key + the Break key on your keyboard. System Properties box will appear
Select the Advanced tab
Click Environmental Variables
Under System Variables click New
In the variable box type devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices
Type 1 in the Variable value text box
Click OK to return to the System Properties box
Click OK again
Go to the Device Manager tab
Click View - Show hidden devices
Then you will need to expand all the branches and look for washed out icons. Those icons show unused device drivers that you can uninstall.
Once you have found a device driver you wish to uninstall, highlight it, right-click it, and choose Remove. Delete only washed out icons. All the other icons show drivers of connected and used devices. If you delete them, your devices will stop functioning properly.
4) Remove Software You Don’t Need
One more way to speed up your PC is to check what software you have installed and see if you need all the applications or not. To do this click Start - Settings - Control Panel - double-click Add/Remove Programs.
Most likely you will find programs you’ve used only once or twice. Removing them will free up disk space and make your PC run faster.
When Uninstalling Software Fails
Uninstalling software doesn’t always go as smooth as one hopes it would. A very common problem is that some programs don’t remove all their data completely, thus leaving some files behind. These files are called junk files.
Sometimes you have to uninstall the software trial version in order to register the full version. But if the uninstall process is not complete, you might fail to register the program that you have paid for.
If the uninstaller doesn’t work, it may be possible to remove the software manually. This means that you will need to remove all related files and configuration data from your hard disk. Usually software uses the Windows Registry to store configuration information.
Firstly, you will need to find the folder where the program was installed. Most likely it’s the Program Files directory. Locate the software folder and delete it. If it’s impossible to delete some files, try restarting your computer. This will help if the files were used by the system. If you can’t delete the files even after a restart, try booting in Safe Mode (tap F8 during PC boot) and then delete the files.
After that you will need to remove invalid Registry entries. Microsoft offers a free Windows Installer CleanUp Utility to help you do the job. After you’ve installed and opened it, select an application you wish to uninstall from the list. The utility will remove all registry entries related to that software. Double check what applications you select and also backup the Registry in case something goes wrong.
If running Windows Installer CleanUp Utility does not solve the problem, you can use a third party registry cleaner. Be careful and only use well-known software that has received positive reviews and trustworthy awards. There are lots of programs that claim to be great, but in fact they contain malware and spyware, and can damage your computer.
Another way to uninstall software without having to worry about the Registry is to use a software uninstaller. Program uninstallers track down and remove all application-related components from your system, thus ensuring that the software gets completely uninstalled.
Auslogics BoostSpeed contains both an uninstaller and a registry cleaner, plus lots of other useful tools to optimize and protect your system. You can download it from http://www.auslogics.com.
5) Disable Indexing Services
The Indexing Services use large amounts of RAM and can often make a computer pretty slow and loud. This service indexes and updates lists of all the files that are on your computer in order to enable you to search for the files and folders faster. To tell you the truth, this service is not really needed and you can safely disable it.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/5-simple-ways-to-speed-up-your-pc.html
1) Speed Up Windows Explorer
Sometimes starting Windows Explorer can take a while. This is because Windows automatically looks for network files, shared network folders, and devices when you start Windows Explorer. It is possible to make it open faster by changing the settings:
Open Windows Explorer
Click on Tools menu
Then click on Folder Options
Click on the View tab
Find Automatically search for network folders and printers check box and uncheck it
Click Apply, then click OK
Reboot your PC
From now on Windows Explorer will start faster, as it will no longer automatically search for network files, shared folders, and devices in the network.
2) Optimize Appearance Settings
We all are used to how Windows XP looks. But actually its visual effects waste system resources. The graphics card is not the only one that has to deal with it - the CPU and the memory are affected as well. Windows Vista graphics are even more advanced and can dramatically slow down your PC, especially if your computer is not one of the latest and the fastest ones.
Luckily there is a way to configure Windows XP for best performance by reducing the effects in the graphical user interface. This will free up RAM and increase computer speed. To configure Windows XP for maximum performance do the following:
Go to Start - Settings and select Control Panel
In the Control Panel, click System and then Advanced tab
In the Performance Options window select Adjust for best performance
Click OK to confirm and close the window
This will turn off all visual effects, which is good for less powerful PCs and laptops. However, if you would like Windows XP to look more like what you’re used to, leave the following boxes ticked:
Show shadows under menus
Show shadows under mouse pointer
Show translucent selection rectangle
Use drop shadows for icons labels on the desktop
Use visual styles on windows and buttons
3) Uninstall Unused Device Drivers
Once you have uninstalled a device, it’s a good idea to remove any device drivers that were left behind. Otherwise those drivers will still be using valuable system resources. Here is why this happens.
When you install a device, you also install its drivers and they get called each time you boot up your PC. And even when the device has been removed, but the drivers are still there, your system continues to load them at boot up. What a waste of resources!
If you have Windows XP, follow these steps to remove any unwanted device drivers:
Press the Windows key + the Break key on your keyboard. System Properties box will appear
Select the Advanced tab
Click Environmental Variables
Under System Variables click New
In the variable box type devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices
Type 1 in the Variable value text box
Click OK to return to the System Properties box
Click OK again
Go to the Device Manager tab
Click View - Show hidden devices
Then you will need to expand all the branches and look for washed out icons. Those icons show unused device drivers that you can uninstall.
Once you have found a device driver you wish to uninstall, highlight it, right-click it, and choose Remove. Delete only washed out icons. All the other icons show drivers of connected and used devices. If you delete them, your devices will stop functioning properly.
4) Remove Software You Don’t Need
One more way to speed up your PC is to check what software you have installed and see if you need all the applications or not. To do this click Start - Settings - Control Panel - double-click Add/Remove Programs.
Most likely you will find programs you’ve used only once or twice. Removing them will free up disk space and make your PC run faster.
When Uninstalling Software Fails
Uninstalling software doesn’t always go as smooth as one hopes it would. A very common problem is that some programs don’t remove all their data completely, thus leaving some files behind. These files are called junk files.
Sometimes you have to uninstall the software trial version in order to register the full version. But if the uninstall process is not complete, you might fail to register the program that you have paid for.
If the uninstaller doesn’t work, it may be possible to remove the software manually. This means that you will need to remove all related files and configuration data from your hard disk. Usually software uses the Windows Registry to store configuration information.
Firstly, you will need to find the folder where the program was installed. Most likely it’s the Program Files directory. Locate the software folder and delete it. If it’s impossible to delete some files, try restarting your computer. This will help if the files were used by the system. If you can’t delete the files even after a restart, try booting in Safe Mode (tap F8 during PC boot) and then delete the files.
After that you will need to remove invalid Registry entries. Microsoft offers a free Windows Installer CleanUp Utility to help you do the job. After you’ve installed and opened it, select an application you wish to uninstall from the list. The utility will remove all registry entries related to that software. Double check what applications you select and also backup the Registry in case something goes wrong.
If running Windows Installer CleanUp Utility does not solve the problem, you can use a third party registry cleaner. Be careful and only use well-known software that has received positive reviews and trustworthy awards. There are lots of programs that claim to be great, but in fact they contain malware and spyware, and can damage your computer.
Another way to uninstall software without having to worry about the Registry is to use a software uninstaller. Program uninstallers track down and remove all application-related components from your system, thus ensuring that the software gets completely uninstalled.
Auslogics BoostSpeed contains both an uninstaller and a registry cleaner, plus lots of other useful tools to optimize and protect your system. You can download it from http://www.auslogics.com.
5) Disable Indexing Services
The Indexing Services use large amounts of RAM and can often make a computer pretty slow and loud. This service indexes and updates lists of all the files that are on your computer in order to enable you to search for the files and folders faster. To tell you the truth, this service is not really needed and you can safely disable it.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/5-simple-ways-to-speed-up-your-pc.html
15 Tips For People Who Think They Want a Website
This article contains only 15 tips but I will add more in it...
So, you want a website, but are you ready for one?
Okay, so you have a business, you're gonna need a website, right? The question is, Do you really want to pay for a website designed by a professional? Professionals aren't cheap. They purchase the latest software for web/graphic design, which costs them THOUSANDS of dollars. They learn to deal with uniformed people on a regular basis that say things like, "How did that take 2 hours, my sister says she could have done that in 2 minutes?"
Tip 1:
Get your sister to do your website if you aren't comfortable paying a graphic/web designer $100+/hour. This is what they charge. Anyone doing it for less hasn't been doing it long enough to deliver everything you want and once they figure out that they are undercharging you (and they will), you will be shocked when you go back for edits.
Tip 2:
Sign a contract, know if your designer gives you rights to the native files, know if your designer gets paid even if you decide not to use their design, protect yourself and your designer.
Tip 3:
Trust the expertise of your designer, some of the ugliest designs out there are because the client got too involved.
Tip 4:
Trust the expertise of your designer, unless you know all about computers, the internet, programming, designing, etc., expect that sometimes unexpected things happen with servers, files, programs, downloads, uploads, glitches, errors, you will be charged for it if it isn't the designers fault. When they spend time fixing something of yours, you pay for it, even if it is not directly related to your project. If they have to drive and talk to your printer, if your file is corrupted and they have to ask your previous designer for a new copy, the clock is ticking.
Tip 5:
Remember, this is your designer's job, this is how they eat, feed their families, put gas in their cars. Don't be cheap or not pay on time, they need a paycheck every two weeks, just like you.
Tip 6:
Know what you want, look around at other websites, send a couple links to your designer, this helps them know what you really want, not what you say you want.
Tip 7:
Yes, you want flash on your website, because it is pretty and moving around, expect to pay for it.
Tip 8:
Designers have families and lives, don't call at 9pm on a Friday evening, unless otherwise stated.
Tip 9:
Be realistic. Think about what you need, first. Do the basics. Content drives a site, not a flashy design. Look at Craigslist. Simple, to the point, and very successful.
Tip 10:
Get your content to your designer ASAP. Don't make a designer wait a month to get going on your site because you can't get your act together. Be ready to launch a website, if you are just thinking "yeah, that would be cool to have a website"...wait...wait...wait...and when you are sure of all the details about your business, then call.
Tip 11:
Don't ask a designer to teach you how to do it, they have classes for that, and they cost THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS and a week out of a designer's life.
Tip 12:
NO, A DESIGNER CAN'T GIVE YOU A 20+ PAGE FLAWLESS WEBSITE IN 2 WEEKS that includes Javascript, PHP and Flash! A front page of it, maybe, depending on the complexity. And NO, THEY WILL NOT DO IT FOR $250.
Tip 13:
If you're on a budget buy a consumer web program and learn it, it would be cheaper for you in the short term until you really need a professionally-designed and coded website.
Tip 14:
If you're a company that can, hire a web developer/graphic designer full time, it's more economical for the amount of work you can get out a someone in 8 hours. A designer will work for $15-25/hour at a job if they are given benefits and regular paycheck. Otherwise, they have to pay our own taxes, health insurance and save money like a 401(k). Also, Graphic/Web developers are handy around a technically-challenged office.
Tip 15:
And finally, if you like your designer, they did a good job, they acted professionally, pass out their card to people who need a website. Referrals are greatly appreciated.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/15-tips-for-people-who-think-they-want-a-website.html
So, you want a website, but are you ready for one?
Okay, so you have a business, you're gonna need a website, right? The question is, Do you really want to pay for a website designed by a professional? Professionals aren't cheap. They purchase the latest software for web/graphic design, which costs them THOUSANDS of dollars. They learn to deal with uniformed people on a regular basis that say things like, "How did that take 2 hours, my sister says she could have done that in 2 minutes?"
Tip 1:
Get your sister to do your website if you aren't comfortable paying a graphic/web designer $100+/hour. This is what they charge. Anyone doing it for less hasn't been doing it long enough to deliver everything you want and once they figure out that they are undercharging you (and they will), you will be shocked when you go back for edits.
Tip 2:
Sign a contract, know if your designer gives you rights to the native files, know if your designer gets paid even if you decide not to use their design, protect yourself and your designer.
Tip 3:
Trust the expertise of your designer, some of the ugliest designs out there are because the client got too involved.
Tip 4:
Trust the expertise of your designer, unless you know all about computers, the internet, programming, designing, etc., expect that sometimes unexpected things happen with servers, files, programs, downloads, uploads, glitches, errors, you will be charged for it if it isn't the designers fault. When they spend time fixing something of yours, you pay for it, even if it is not directly related to your project. If they have to drive and talk to your printer, if your file is corrupted and they have to ask your previous designer for a new copy, the clock is ticking.
Tip 5:
Remember, this is your designer's job, this is how they eat, feed their families, put gas in their cars. Don't be cheap or not pay on time, they need a paycheck every two weeks, just like you.
Tip 6:
Know what you want, look around at other websites, send a couple links to your designer, this helps them know what you really want, not what you say you want.
Tip 7:
Yes, you want flash on your website, because it is pretty and moving around, expect to pay for it.
Tip 8:
Designers have families and lives, don't call at 9pm on a Friday evening, unless otherwise stated.
Tip 9:
Be realistic. Think about what you need, first. Do the basics. Content drives a site, not a flashy design. Look at Craigslist. Simple, to the point, and very successful.
Tip 10:
Get your content to your designer ASAP. Don't make a designer wait a month to get going on your site because you can't get your act together. Be ready to launch a website, if you are just thinking "yeah, that would be cool to have a website"...wait...wait...wait...and when you are sure of all the details about your business, then call.
Tip 11:
Don't ask a designer to teach you how to do it, they have classes for that, and they cost THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS and a week out of a designer's life.
Tip 12:
NO, A DESIGNER CAN'T GIVE YOU A 20+ PAGE FLAWLESS WEBSITE IN 2 WEEKS that includes Javascript, PHP and Flash! A front page of it, maybe, depending on the complexity. And NO, THEY WILL NOT DO IT FOR $250.
Tip 13:
If you're on a budget buy a consumer web program and learn it, it would be cheaper for you in the short term until you really need a professionally-designed and coded website.
Tip 14:
If you're a company that can, hire a web developer/graphic designer full time, it's more economical for the amount of work you can get out a someone in 8 hours. A designer will work for $15-25/hour at a job if they are given benefits and regular paycheck. Otherwise, they have to pay our own taxes, health insurance and save money like a 401(k). Also, Graphic/Web developers are handy around a technically-challenged office.
Tip 15:
And finally, if you like your designer, they did a good job, they acted professionally, pass out their card to people who need a website. Referrals are greatly appreciated.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/15-tips-for-people-who-think-they-want-a-website.html
Mobile Phones and Driving - Safety Tips
When using a mobile phone while driving, safety is the most important call you will make. All drivers can make safety their first priority by following these ten simple steps.
1. Always Use Hands Free
In Australia it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you use a hands free in-car-kit or portable hands free device. When using a portable hands free device make sure it is set up and working before you start to drive. A hands free device can reduce the physical effort to make and receive calls; however, it alone doesn’t make using a mobile phone while driving safe.
2. Plan Your Trip and Make Calls When Stationary
Whenever possible plan your trip and make calls when stationary or during rest breaks in long trips.
3. Don’t Call in Heavy Traffic or Weather Conditions
Don’t accept or make calls if traffic and weather conditions could make it unsafe to do so. Also, even if the traffic conditions are light, always tell the person you are speaking to that you’re driving and that you may have to end the call if driving conditions change.
4. Don’t Engage in Complex or Emotional Conversations
If a call becomes complex or emotional tell the person you are speaking to, you are driving and suspend the call. Complex and emotive conversations on a mobile phone, or with other passengers, and driving don’t mix – they are distracting and can be dangerous.
5. Use Message Services to Answer Calls
If a call is unnecessary or you consider it unsafe to answer at the time, don’t answer the call. Let it divert to voicemail or an answering service.
6. Pull Over Safely if You Stop to Make a Call
If you choose to stop to answer or make a call or retrieve a message, pull over carefully in a safe area. Don’t stop where you could be a hazard to other vehicles, pedestrians or yourself.
7. Use Your Phone’s Features to Reduce the Effort to Make a Call
Before using our phone while driving, carefully read your phone’s instruction manual and learn to use the speed dial and redial features of your phone. Also, if possible, use a phone with voice activated dialing and automatic answering features to reduce the effort to make and receive a call.
8. Never Take Notes, Look Up Phone Numbers, Read or Send SMS
Always keep both eyes on the road and never take notes during a call. Don’t read or send text messages or SMS (Short Messaging Service) while driving. If required, use a directory assistance service which connects you directly to the number and don’t look up phone numbers from your phone’s memory.
9. Tell callers you’re driving while on the phone
Always let the person you’re speaking to know that you are driving. This lets them know that you may not always respond immediately and reminds you that driving safely is your first priority. “Hello, I’m in the car at the moment…”
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/mobile-phones-and-driving--safety-tips.html
1. Always Use Hands Free
In Australia it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you use a hands free in-car-kit or portable hands free device. When using a portable hands free device make sure it is set up and working before you start to drive. A hands free device can reduce the physical effort to make and receive calls; however, it alone doesn’t make using a mobile phone while driving safe.
2. Plan Your Trip and Make Calls When Stationary
Whenever possible plan your trip and make calls when stationary or during rest breaks in long trips.
3. Don’t Call in Heavy Traffic or Weather Conditions
Don’t accept or make calls if traffic and weather conditions could make it unsafe to do so. Also, even if the traffic conditions are light, always tell the person you are speaking to that you’re driving and that you may have to end the call if driving conditions change.
4. Don’t Engage in Complex or Emotional Conversations
If a call becomes complex or emotional tell the person you are speaking to, you are driving and suspend the call. Complex and emotive conversations on a mobile phone, or with other passengers, and driving don’t mix – they are distracting and can be dangerous.
5. Use Message Services to Answer Calls
If a call is unnecessary or you consider it unsafe to answer at the time, don’t answer the call. Let it divert to voicemail or an answering service.
6. Pull Over Safely if You Stop to Make a Call
If you choose to stop to answer or make a call or retrieve a message, pull over carefully in a safe area. Don’t stop where you could be a hazard to other vehicles, pedestrians or yourself.
7. Use Your Phone’s Features to Reduce the Effort to Make a Call
Before using our phone while driving, carefully read your phone’s instruction manual and learn to use the speed dial and redial features of your phone. Also, if possible, use a phone with voice activated dialing and automatic answering features to reduce the effort to make and receive a call.
8. Never Take Notes, Look Up Phone Numbers, Read or Send SMS
Always keep both eyes on the road and never take notes during a call. Don’t read or send text messages or SMS (Short Messaging Service) while driving. If required, use a directory assistance service which connects you directly to the number and don’t look up phone numbers from your phone’s memory.
9. Tell callers you’re driving while on the phone
Always let the person you’re speaking to know that you are driving. This lets them know that you may not always respond immediately and reminds you that driving safely is your first priority. “Hello, I’m in the car at the moment…”
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/mobile-phones-and-driving--safety-tips.html
Tips And Tricks To Improve The Performance of Your Lap Top Battery
The working of a laptop mainly depends on a charger. Life of a laptop battery is affected by many factors. Some of them are given below and we are also telling you the tips that will surely help you a lot.
In every laptop there is an energy saving mode, you should have to take full advantage. By this you can increase or decrease the power. Two power schemes are available on your windows.
One is Laptop power scheme that reduces the use of power and increases the life of the battery. The other one is Maximum power battery scheme that also reduces the power use but the disadvantage of this scheme is, as your processing demands changes it does not adjust by itself.
Maximum battery should only be used in the case of reading documents and if you want to take notes to the meeting. Even according to specific needs, we can customize the power scheme. It is up to us that how many custom power schemes we want to create.
Running very heavy program on your laptop would surely be a harmful thing for its battery. Watching movies daily will put heavy weight on your laptops battery and will decrease its life. But if you have a spare battery then it's OKAY.
The monitor of your system is the biggest consumer of the battery. But I have a solution. First of all find the brightness control and turn it down, it will surely add life to the battery.
People used to think that lap top battery only works less than a year. That's not true but it doesn't mean that it has a long life. You will be impressed by its performance in first year but it's a machine, wear and tear is always a matter of thinking.
Now I am going to discuss, types of a battery
Nickel cadmium Lithium-ion Battery:
Now a days you will mostly find laptops with Lithium ion battery. This cycle provides you with 300-500 charge/discharge cycles. This battery is not friendly with overcharging. If we will try to overcharge it, it sucks. Life of this battery is very badly affected by high temperature. This battery works well for a time period of 2-3 years. After that it will not completely fail but will work rather slow. Charging and discharging habits of a user will not cause as much damage to the battery as caused by exposure to elevated temperature.
Nickel-based Battery:
In this type of battery, before fully charging, it's better to completely discharge it. If it is partially discharged before recharging then the resulting capacity of the battery would be decreased.
Lithium battery has more voltage capacity than Nickel based battery. If your laptop has passed a time of 3 years, it is better to use Nickel based battery.
I hope the above information will surely help you in selecting the right kind of battery for your laptop. Enjoy computing, have a nice time.
In every laptop there is an energy saving mode, you should have to take full advantage. By this you can increase or decrease the power. Two power schemes are available on your windows.
One is Laptop power scheme that reduces the use of power and increases the life of the battery. The other one is Maximum power battery scheme that also reduces the power use but the disadvantage of this scheme is, as your processing demands changes it does not adjust by itself.
Maximum battery should only be used in the case of reading documents and if you want to take notes to the meeting. Even according to specific needs, we can customize the power scheme. It is up to us that how many custom power schemes we want to create.
Running very heavy program on your laptop would surely be a harmful thing for its battery. Watching movies daily will put heavy weight on your laptops battery and will decrease its life. But if you have a spare battery then it's OKAY.
The monitor of your system is the biggest consumer of the battery. But I have a solution. First of all find the brightness control and turn it down, it will surely add life to the battery.
People used to think that lap top battery only works less than a year. That's not true but it doesn't mean that it has a long life. You will be impressed by its performance in first year but it's a machine, wear and tear is always a matter of thinking.
Now I am going to discuss, types of a battery
Nickel cadmium Lithium-ion Battery:
Now a days you will mostly find laptops with Lithium ion battery. This cycle provides you with 300-500 charge/discharge cycles. This battery is not friendly with overcharging. If we will try to overcharge it, it sucks. Life of this battery is very badly affected by high temperature. This battery works well for a time period of 2-3 years. After that it will not completely fail but will work rather slow. Charging and discharging habits of a user will not cause as much damage to the battery as caused by exposure to elevated temperature.
Nickel-based Battery:
In this type of battery, before fully charging, it's better to completely discharge it. If it is partially discharged before recharging then the resulting capacity of the battery would be decreased.
Lithium battery has more voltage capacity than Nickel based battery. If your laptop has passed a time of 3 years, it is better to use Nickel based battery.
I hope the above information will surely help you in selecting the right kind of battery for your laptop. Enjoy computing, have a nice time.
How to get the price you want!
Knowing how to haggle has become a lost art. To our grandparent's generation, it was a way of life. To us, it has all but disappeared. With prices soaring out of control every year, maybe it's an art form that needs to go mainstream again.
Do your research
You can't bargain for a good deal if you don't know what one is when you see it. Before you ever begin shopping and trying to work out bargains, start at home with the internet and the local newspaper.
Decide on the specifications of the product you want. What's important to you? What must the new product have that you need? Now, start looking for the best price. Search the internet and local sales papers. Once you have your facts, hit the stores and start bargaining.
Timing is everything
The best time to find bargains is at the end of every month. Sales and store managers have quotas that they must meet every month. If they haven't met their quota for the month, they'll be quite happy to bargain with you.
Use discretion
The manager might be willing to make a deal with you, but not necessarily everyone else in the store. Keep your haggling quiet. If the other nearby shoppers hear you getting a deal, they'll bombard the manager with requests for their own discounts and the manager definitely doesn't want that to happen
Know when to be quiet
Silence lets the retailer know that you are undecided and "on the fence". Silence is often the key to getting a better price or another product or service thrown in for free.
Realize that all big ticket items are negotiable
The markup on big ticket items is huge. In other words, there's a lot of room for the retailer to deal and still come away with a profit. How much profit is up to you. Find the right person to ask, usually the manager, and then have to courage to ask for the deal. Most of the time, the manager is willing to bargain.
Don't look at haggling from a negative point. By learning how to haggle and looking at from the point of being a challenge, you can not only save money but have a good time doing it.
Original Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/how-to-haggle-and-get-the-price-you-want.html
Do your research
You can't bargain for a good deal if you don't know what one is when you see it. Before you ever begin shopping and trying to work out bargains, start at home with the internet and the local newspaper.
Decide on the specifications of the product you want. What's important to you? What must the new product have that you need? Now, start looking for the best price. Search the internet and local sales papers. Once you have your facts, hit the stores and start bargaining.
Timing is everything
The best time to find bargains is at the end of every month. Sales and store managers have quotas that they must meet every month. If they haven't met their quota for the month, they'll be quite happy to bargain with you.
Use discretion
The manager might be willing to make a deal with you, but not necessarily everyone else in the store. Keep your haggling quiet. If the other nearby shoppers hear you getting a deal, they'll bombard the manager with requests for their own discounts and the manager definitely doesn't want that to happen
Know when to be quiet
Silence lets the retailer know that you are undecided and "on the fence". Silence is often the key to getting a better price or another product or service thrown in for free.
Realize that all big ticket items are negotiable
The markup on big ticket items is huge. In other words, there's a lot of room for the retailer to deal and still come away with a profit. How much profit is up to you. Find the right person to ask, usually the manager, and then have to courage to ask for the deal. Most of the time, the manager is willing to bargain.
Don't look at haggling from a negative point. By learning how to haggle and looking at from the point of being a challenge, you can not only save money but have a good time doing it.
Original Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/how-to-haggle-and-get-the-price-you-want.html
Tire Safety - How To Avoid Becoming a Statisic
Not following basic tire safety practices is responsible for 600 deaths and 33,000 injuries every year according to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Would you like to know the #1 safety practice that is ignored and responsible for these statistics? Keep reading.
Believe it or not, underinflated tires is the cause of the shocking statistics listed above. Hard to believe, but it's true. By ensuring proper air amounts in your tires you not only stay safe, but you increase the fuel efficiency in your vehicle. Here are 5 tire safety tips to keep you safe.
1. Check your tires on a regular basis
Look for bulges in the sidewall or tread, cracks, and cuts.
2. Pay attention to uneven tread wear
Uneven wear on your tires means your tires are out of alignment or your suspension system may need adjustments.
3. Check the tread depth
For good handling and traction, the tread on your tires cannot be worn too low. To check for the proper depth, use a quarter. When you insert a quarter into the tread of your tires, it should come to Washington's head -- less means your tread is too worn.
4. Check your air pressure monthly
To do this properly, you should check the pressure when your tires are cold (before you drive anywhere). To know how much pressure should be in each tire, check the label on the door jamb, or in your glove compartment. It will tell you the proper level or pressure for the tires for your model of vehicle.
5. Notice vibration
If you feel vibration as you are driving your car, it could mean that you have a wheel out of alignment, or it could be signs of internal tire damage.
Keep a list of these tire safety tips handy so you can remember to follow them. By ensuring your tires are properly inflated and in good condition, you can keep yourself or one of your loved ones from becoming a statistic on America's highways.
Original Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/tire-safety--how-to-avoid-becoming-a-statisic.html
Believe it or not, underinflated tires is the cause of the shocking statistics listed above. Hard to believe, but it's true. By ensuring proper air amounts in your tires you not only stay safe, but you increase the fuel efficiency in your vehicle. Here are 5 tire safety tips to keep you safe.
1. Check your tires on a regular basis
Look for bulges in the sidewall or tread, cracks, and cuts.
2. Pay attention to uneven tread wear
Uneven wear on your tires means your tires are out of alignment or your suspension system may need adjustments.
3. Check the tread depth
For good handling and traction, the tread on your tires cannot be worn too low. To check for the proper depth, use a quarter. When you insert a quarter into the tread of your tires, it should come to Washington's head -- less means your tread is too worn.
4. Check your air pressure monthly
To do this properly, you should check the pressure when your tires are cold (before you drive anywhere). To know how much pressure should be in each tire, check the label on the door jamb, or in your glove compartment. It will tell you the proper level or pressure for the tires for your model of vehicle.
5. Notice vibration
If you feel vibration as you are driving your car, it could mean that you have a wheel out of alignment, or it could be signs of internal tire damage.
Keep a list of these tire safety tips handy so you can remember to follow them. By ensuring your tires are properly inflated and in good condition, you can keep yourself or one of your loved ones from becoming a statistic on America's highways.
Original Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/tire-safety--how-to-avoid-becoming-a-statisic.html
Dont Let money come between friends...
Although borrowing money is usually done with the best intentions, lending money to friends can leave you without your money and possibly without your relationship.
Loaning money is almost always a bad idea, but with so many people losing their jobs, homes, and savings it’s a real possibility that you may find yourself seriously considering helping a friend in financial trouble when they ask that dreaded question: “Can I borrow some money?”
Before agreeing to a loan, try opening the lines of communication to understand their situation. It may be that your friend would be better off working with a reputable budget counseling organization. And sometimes, even though it’s difficult, saying “no” is often the best thing you can do for someone.
If you are considering lending money to a friend, the experts at Consumer Credit Counseling Services, a division of Money Management International, offer the following advice.
• Don’t put yourself in a tight spot. Only loan money you can afford to lend and make sure you’re still allowing extra cash flow for yourself. List all necessary living expenses and make sure those items have been paid prior to agreeing to lend money. Ensuring that your obligations are met before making a loan will guarantee that you don’t end up in a similar situation.
• Put it in writing. If you choose to lend someone money, treat the loan like you would any other business matter. Discuss the terms of the agreement and put the details in writing. Be sure to list both parties involved, the interest rate, due dates, payment amounts, and penalty for late or missed payments. Also, be sure to keep a thorough record of all payments made.
• Know your place. Do not assume a position of power by expecting special treatment from the borrower. Also, once the money has been lent, don’t try to control how it is spent. Being too authoritative could damage your friendship.
• Prepare for the worst. Make sure you are comfortable with collecting the money owed to you. Document the date and time of any letters or phone calls sent to collect on your loan and be sure to make note of all the responses to your attempts. Your records may be necessary if you plan to take the matter to court, or if you plan to write the debt off as non-business bad debt on your next tax return.
If you still aren’t sure whether or not you should extend a loan, remember this famous quote from Shakespeare: “Neither a borrower nor a lender be; for loan oft loses both itself and friend.” Also, remember that banks charge interest rates for a reason -- lending can be a very risky business.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/dont-let-money-come-between-friends.html
Loaning money is almost always a bad idea, but with so many people losing their jobs, homes, and savings it’s a real possibility that you may find yourself seriously considering helping a friend in financial trouble when they ask that dreaded question: “Can I borrow some money?”
Before agreeing to a loan, try opening the lines of communication to understand their situation. It may be that your friend would be better off working with a reputable budget counseling organization. And sometimes, even though it’s difficult, saying “no” is often the best thing you can do for someone.
If you are considering lending money to a friend, the experts at Consumer Credit Counseling Services, a division of Money Management International, offer the following advice.
• Don’t put yourself in a tight spot. Only loan money you can afford to lend and make sure you’re still allowing extra cash flow for yourself. List all necessary living expenses and make sure those items have been paid prior to agreeing to lend money. Ensuring that your obligations are met before making a loan will guarantee that you don’t end up in a similar situation.
• Put it in writing. If you choose to lend someone money, treat the loan like you would any other business matter. Discuss the terms of the agreement and put the details in writing. Be sure to list both parties involved, the interest rate, due dates, payment amounts, and penalty for late or missed payments. Also, be sure to keep a thorough record of all payments made.
• Know your place. Do not assume a position of power by expecting special treatment from the borrower. Also, once the money has been lent, don’t try to control how it is spent. Being too authoritative could damage your friendship.
• Prepare for the worst. Make sure you are comfortable with collecting the money owed to you. Document the date and time of any letters or phone calls sent to collect on your loan and be sure to make note of all the responses to your attempts. Your records may be necessary if you plan to take the matter to court, or if you plan to write the debt off as non-business bad debt on your next tax return.
If you still aren’t sure whether or not you should extend a loan, remember this famous quote from Shakespeare: “Neither a borrower nor a lender be; for loan oft loses both itself and friend.” Also, remember that banks charge interest rates for a reason -- lending can be a very risky business.
Source: http://www.complaintsboard.com/articles/dont-let-money-come-between-friends.html
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Safe Internet Browsing Tips
The Internet has some pretty dark and scary back corners, and sometimes malicious software can pop up where you least expect it. No one can guarantee that you'll be 100% safe, but if you follow these tips and suggestions, you will definitely be safer, and able to browse with a bit more peace of mind.
* Use an outbound traffic analyzer to be notified when an application begins emitting new or unexpected traffic.
* Manually control web cookies while web browsing. The procedure for enabling this setting is different for each World Wide Web browser (Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Chrome, etc.). In order to enable this setting in Firefox click on "Tools", then "Options", choose the "Privacy" tab at the top then check the boxes "Accept cookies from sites" and "Accept third-party cookies". In the drop down menu below those boxes select "Keep Until: Ask me every time". After setting this option you will be presented with a choice whether to accept or deny cookies for most of the websites you visit. If you deny cookies related to the website you are attempting to visit then the website may not function as intended. Generally, most third party cookies are safe to "deny", but not always.
* Always keep anti-virus software definitions up to date. Upon installation, most antivirus software will ask you if you want definitions updated automatically. It will also be presented as an option within the software itself. Often your ISP (Internet Service Provider) will provide anti-virus software to you at no cost, so check their documentation for more information.
* Practice "defense-in-depth" by installing more than one anti-virus and/or anti-spyware/malware application. Contrary to popular belief, anti-virus vendors often have widely variable delays before a particular signature gets into their database. While they may be effectively the same 30 days after a piece of malware is released, you are most vulnerable in the hours immediately after release, a time at which having multiple anti-virus applications may save you from infection.
* Use a firewall. Firewalls come in many shapes and sizes with varying degrees of functionality and protection. Firewalls can be hardware or software based.
* Remember that everyone on the Internet is exposed to online criminals. Sources of both commercial and free software are targets for hacking, and care should be exercised when downloading and installing Internet-based software.
* Follow Microsoft's best practices for updating various Windows operating systems.
* Never blindly accept a security dialog or execute an unexpected file, even if it comes from a web site that you visit often. Even the largest web sites can be compromised to include malware downloads and other security risks. Always carefully read and evaluate the provided text before making a decision. When in doubt - deny or cancel.
* Use an outbound traffic analyzer to be notified when an application begins emitting new or unexpected traffic.
* Manually control web cookies while web browsing. The procedure for enabling this setting is different for each World Wide Web browser (Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Chrome, etc.). In order to enable this setting in Firefox click on "Tools", then "Options", choose the "Privacy" tab at the top then check the boxes "Accept cookies from sites" and "Accept third-party cookies". In the drop down menu below those boxes select "Keep Until: Ask me every time". After setting this option you will be presented with a choice whether to accept or deny cookies for most of the websites you visit. If you deny cookies related to the website you are attempting to visit then the website may not function as intended. Generally, most third party cookies are safe to "deny", but not always.
* Always keep anti-virus software definitions up to date. Upon installation, most antivirus software will ask you if you want definitions updated automatically. It will also be presented as an option within the software itself. Often your ISP (Internet Service Provider) will provide anti-virus software to you at no cost, so check their documentation for more information.
* Practice "defense-in-depth" by installing more than one anti-virus and/or anti-spyware/malware application. Contrary to popular belief, anti-virus vendors often have widely variable delays before a particular signature gets into their database. While they may be effectively the same 30 days after a piece of malware is released, you are most vulnerable in the hours immediately after release, a time at which having multiple anti-virus applications may save you from infection.
* Use a firewall. Firewalls come in many shapes and sizes with varying degrees of functionality and protection. Firewalls can be hardware or software based.
* Remember that everyone on the Internet is exposed to online criminals. Sources of both commercial and free software are targets for hacking, and care should be exercised when downloading and installing Internet-based software.
* Follow Microsoft's best practices for updating various Windows operating systems.
* Never blindly accept a security dialog or execute an unexpected file, even if it comes from a web site that you visit often. Even the largest web sites can be compromised to include malware downloads and other security risks. Always carefully read and evaluate the provided text before making a decision. When in doubt - deny or cancel.
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