Updated Safe Gadget Internet Security Tutorials – Security Alerts

Posted on September 18, 2012 by Safe Gadget

The following articles have been updated to reflect new and important security protection schemes:

10/11/2012: Added information about Google Takeout and Data Liberation to How to: Anonymous Browsing, Internet Privacy.

10/7/2012: NFC is a new frontier in security headaches. Researchers can use a smartphone to skim a credit card and reuse it. Disable it now, see our Android Smartphone Security, How to securely use your Android Smartphone or Tablet article.

9/18/2012: There is a new Internet Explorer bug that is being exploited, with no fix currently available. Microsoft suggests you use their EMET tool, or you could simply switch to Chrome or Firefox browsers.  On 9/21/2012, this patch made its way into Windows Update.

8/27/2012: Dropbox now supports 2 factor authentication.  Enable it now!

8/10/2012: Blizzard’s BattleNet got hacked, Diablo 3, Starcraft II, World of Warcraft, etc.

  • Change your passwords immediately and use a different password for each site. We suggest that you buy their two-factor authentication device. The answers to security questions also got compromised. If you use these same questions and answers on other sites, we suggest you change them on other sites. We have been recommending that users use unique answers to every security question on each site. Read – How to create, store, and use secure passwords

8/8/2012: A Wired writer got his world hacked and computer erased quickly. This could happen to you! He did not use 2 factor authentication which probably could have prevented the problem. Turn on 2 factor authentication for gmail right away.

7/31/2012: Dropbox got hacked. Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Software | Tagged | Leave a comment

Welcome to Safegadget.com

Posted on March 23, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Welcome to Safegadget.com, the one-stop website for securing your computer and gadgets. Don’t wait until you have become a victim of malware. While it is impossible to prevent all attacks, it is important that we all secure our systems so we aren’t easily hacked. This is akin to wearing a seat belt to prevent an accident.

We feature many different security tutorials.

Harden the Security of your Browser

Boost the Security of your Smartphones and Tablets

Learn how to perform the following Safely and Securely
Continue reading →

Posted in Android, Browser, Computer Hardware, Computer Software, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, iPad, iPhone, Linux, Macintosh, Online Service, Online Shopping, Password, Phishing, Safari, Smartphone, Spyware, Virus, Windows, Wireless Networking | Tagged | Leave a comment

Windows Internet Security Software Sale

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Safe Gadget

No need to pay much or even anything for a brand new Internet security suite for Windows. We try to buy software only when it is free! For a limited time only, Leading Windows Internet Security Software are on sale at excellent prices:

Newegg.com has several security software suites for Free after rebate. Check their security software page for the current promotion. We have seen the Free Internet security software suite offer change every couple days. AVG, Panda, McAfee, Symantec, and BitDefender take turns offering a Free security software deal. Shipping is also Free.

Current Promo:

McAfee Internet Security 2012 – 3 PCs – Free after rebate Expires 5/2/2012

Posted in Computer Software | Tagged | Leave a comment

How to Prevent Spam Text Messages

Posted on May 29, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Apple iPhone 3GS

The only thing worse than spam in your email box is a spam text message on your cell phone or smartphone. For the last 20 years spam has been clogging up our email, and now it is in full bloom on our phones. Spam Texting needs to stop.

How do Spammers get Phone Numbers?

There are several sources of phone numbers for text message spamming.

  • Internet postings
  • Random phone number generation
  • Auto dialing robo calling

The Dangers in Spam Text Messages

Just like email spam, offers made in unsolicited text messages are full of bogus offers like free iPads, prizes, or gift cards, etc. Clicking on any link or calling a phone number listed in the text message can result in the following:

  • Malware being installed on your phone
  • Unauthorized charges billed to your phone
  • Recurring items added to your phone bill
  • Private information being transmitted to cyber criminals

Continue reading →

Posted in Android, iPhone, Phishing, Smartphone, Spyware | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How to International Travel and Maintaining Computer Security Tips

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Apple iPhone 3GS

The International Travel Security Problem

Many of us travel internationally but few realize how important computer security can be when we visit other countries. People doing business in countries like China and Russia (or any other country for that matter) need to pay strict attention to their technology security protocols to prevent the real and growing threat of high tech espionage. There have been instances of people returning from abroad and having their laptops or smartphones compromised. A mobile device used internationally and later hooked up to the Company’s network provides an excellent infection vector. The folks intent on stealing information could be government or corporate based.

Learn how to use your iPhone or Android Smartphone in China

How to Protect Yourself When Traveling

Some people might find the following list a bit paranoid, but you never can be too safe. People that work for major corporations, government, or security firms need maximum protection from attackers. There are tools that can detect the location of a mobile device to within 100 feet and can target phones by the phone number, IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number and intercept all communications from the mobile device.

  • Leave your cell phone and laptop at home
  • Buy a phone and SIM card in the other country
  • Beware of any SMS message especially if they have links
  • Do not bring any sensitive data or passwords
  • Use temporary or loaner cell phones and laptops which will be erased when you get home
  • Make sure all gadgets are fully up to date and have security software enabled. The best encryption should be utilized
  • Never let your electronics out of your site
  • If your device gets inspected at the border, it should never be connected to the Company’s network again
  • Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi altogether
  • Disable microphones and cameras
  • During meetings, turn off your devices and remove their batteries. (Prevents possible recording)
  • Use a VPN with heavy encryption to connect to the Internet
  • Use Google Voice to create a “throw away” voice accounts
  • Do not connect to your Company’s or government’s network while abroad
  • Use coded language when discussing sensitive matters
  • Cut and paste passwords to prevent keylogging
  • Change any and all passwords you used on the trip, immediately
  • Enable two factor authentication for services that support this; Facebook, Gmail, eBay, etc.

Continue reading →

Posted in Android, Computer Hardware, Computer Software, iPad, iPhone, Macintosh, Password, Smartphone, Spyware, Virus | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

How to Safely use Facebook

Posted on March 1, 2012 by Safe Gadget

facebook

Facebook is becoming more popular everyday. With millions of people to be targeted, Facebook is definitely a battleground for security and privacy. This website has become a worldwide hit and consequently has become a target for those intent on spamming and stealing private information. In this article, we will cover many techniques to allow you to safely use Facebook.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

It is important that you follow the tips above to ensure your computer is secure. There have been Facebook Spam Attacks caused when malware infects a computer and gives control of the user’s Facebook account to a spammer. The spammer then posts messages on Facebook offering everything from Free items to pictures of celebrities, all appearing to be posted by the infected user. If one of your friends clicks on the offer, they instantly get infected, repeating the cycle of malware propagation.

Friending only Real Friends

It is important that we only share information with true friends and not distant acquaintances. Many people try to friend as many people as possible, perhaps even people they barely know. We believe it is important that people eliminate friends they barely know from their friend list. An alternative would be to create Groups of close friends and only blast more personal messages out to this group. This technique does require more involvement whenever you post.

Think before Clicking on Links

Continue reading →

Posted in Online Service, Password, Phishing | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Android Smartphone Security, How to securely use your Android Smartphone or Tablet

Posted on February 4, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Android Smartphone,Samsung Galaxy 2, T-Mobile

Google’s Android operating system powers many popular cellphones including the popular Samsung Galaxy 3. Most Android Smartphone users do not think very much about security.

Why is Android more susceptible to attack?

  • Open nature of Android system
  • Multiple App stores
  • Apps are not checked

The Android Smartphone is part of Android’s open ecosystem, making viruses and malware more possible than closed platforms like the iPhone. As the Android Smartphone has grown in popularity, the smartphone has become more of a target by hackers and criminals. The DroidDream and Plankton Android malware infected over 250,000 phones before anyone discovered their malware. Google removed over 58 malicious apps from this single malware. A recent survey has shown that only 30% of Android Smartphone users installed security software on their phones. Malware can grab private data or use the phone to communicate externally.


Carrier IQ is a controversial piece of software that can show you what certain Android phones and spyware can do if the carriers allow it.

It is important that Android Smartphone users immediately become more vigilant about smartphone security. Our tutorial covers the Android Smartphones running most versions of the Android operating system.

1. Android Smartphone Software Updates

Continue reading →

Posted in Android, Browser, Computer Hardware, Google Chrome, Online Shopping, Password, Phishing, Smartphone, Spyware, Virus, Wireless Networking | Tagged , , | 13 Comments

Major Wireless Network Security Breach – Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS Bug) PIN Brute Force Vulnerability – Reaver

Posted on February 1, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Linksys wireless router, Linksys router, WRT54G

A major security hole known as WiFi Protected Setup (WPS Bug) PIN brute force vulnerability (US-CERT VU#723755) has been recently found in virtually all modern Wireless Routers used in the home, resulting in a vulnerability that allows hackers to extract your WPA wireless security password in a matter of hours. Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a protocol that allows users to press a button on their Wireless Router and connect to their computers without typing in a long cryptic password. A hole in this protocol has been recently found and exploited, allowing hackers easy access to cracking most wireless networks.

Why is this a major security problem?

  • Virtually all wireless routers have this problem
  • Many wireless routers (Qwest Actiontec, etc) use the same unchangeable PIN 12345670, hackable in seconds
  • WPS is turn on by default to get certified by Wi-Fi Alliance
  • Wireless routers do not automatically update their software to get a fix
  • The number of PIN codes to test is only 11,000 instead of 100 million
  • Attack software is available

The biggest issue is that virtually all wireless routers sold in the last 4 of years are hackable. The manufacturers need to update their firmware for these devices in order to fix the security breach. Virtually all wireless routers do not automatically update their firmware. As of January 16th, 2012, no manufacturers have issued updates, leaving millions of wireless networks vulnerable. Adding insult to injury, options to disable Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) have been found to not do anything.

Why is getting your wireless password bad?

There are many reasons why you do not want your wireless password hacked.

  • Others could use your Internet Connection Freely
  • Spam or other illegal activities could be sent
  • Everything you do on your network could be captured and read
  • Your online banking and trading would no longer be secure

Continue reading →

Posted in Computer Hardware, Computer Software, Password, Wireless Networking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Recovering from a Malware Infection

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Windows Blue Screen Of Death, BSOD

Recovering from a Malware Infection or Malware Disaster is a difficult and time consuming process. This involves running 1 or more anti-malware programs to help eradicate any infections.

How to tell if you are infected

The first step in recovering from an infection is realizing that you are infected in the first place. Below are some telltale signs that you have been infected by malware.

  • Computer Operates Much Slower than Normal
  • Pop-up windows, especially ones selling anti-virus software
  • Computer does not boot or start up
  • Computer starts playing funny sounds
  • Internet speed decrease
  • Internet access even when no program is running

If you have any of the above symptoms, it is time to check your computer for problems. Keep in mind that computers with inadequate amounts of RAM memory may run slower than normal. We recommend at least 2 GB of RAM with Windows Vista or Windows 7.

Checking Your System for Malware

After you have decided to check your system, you should scan your system with up to date anti-virus or anti-malware software.

We suggest you first delete any Temporary Files located on the drive. This will speed up virus scanning and even remove any viruses inside the Temporary Files folder. To delete Temporary Files follow the steps below: Continue reading →

Posted in Computer Software, Spyware, Virus, Windows | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

How to: Anonymous Browsing, Internet Privacy

Posted on January 2, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Gold Baldwin Door Lock

Why should I be concerned about Internet privacy?

  • Do you like online ads following you around from site to site?
  • Can you discuss your health problems online without fear of losing insurance?
  • Do you worry about publishing private information that could lead to stalking, surveillance, or identity theft?
  • Does your work place monitor your Facebook or Twitter? Could you be fired over a post?
  • Do you live in a country where you could be arrested or tortured based on what you post online?
  • Did you know that third-parties collect information the government is not allowed to collect? The government has purchased this information too.
  • Companies such as FinFisher are selling hacking software to countries and corporations to break into people’s computers and monitor them.
  • Visit the EFF’s Panopticlick site to see what you are telling the world right now, before using the tools below.

60% of people polled by the WSJ.com were tremendously worried about the loss of online privacy.

The Internet appears to facilitate privacy and anonymity, but in recent years has been a battleground that pits advertisers on one side and users on the other. It has become increasingly difficult to maintain privacy on the Internet because money has gotten into the game. As online advertising has grown, companies have sprouted up, attempting to optimize Internet advertising performance by combining advertising with profiling. While individual users may not be known by name, they have become ghost profiles that are increasingly matched up with appropriate advertising. If you have found Internet ads following you from site to site, you have been profiled and are seeing the results. In this article, we will examine many methods to enhance our Internet privacy and perform operations anonymously.

One of the main goals of Internet privacy is to make that people have the ability to make informed decisions about how they act online. Users should be told ahead of time how their personal information is used and shared.

The Real Cost of Free Content

While many users assume that most content sites are free, there is a hidden price being paid, the users private information. Most online advertising companies are tracking web browsing activity across many websites in order to build profiles of users. They cross-reference and trade information to generate revenue and better target online advertising and promotions.

Internet Browser Cookies

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Linux, Macintosh, Online Service, Safari, Windows | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Internet for Kids – Parental Controls

Posted on January 2, 2012 by Safe Gadget

The Internet is a scary place for kids and a constant worry for their parents. Inappropriate content, predators, and malware lurk around every corner. It is critical that we teach our kids how to use the Internet safely as well as equip our computers with necessary safeguards. First we will cover some foundational security information, then we will delve into tools and settings to help secure the Internet for kids.

Consumers Union found that households containing people under 18 had a larger propensity to being infected with malware. The following situations can easily occur:

  • A child might post on Facebook that the family is going on vacation
  • Children download apps without understanding the hazards or reading the reviews
  • Younger kids may click on links within email, without thinking about the risks
  • Not downloading copyrighted material needs to be taught to minors
  • Popup warnings from security software are usually ignored

Educating Your Kids

The most important element in creating a safe place for your kids to use the Internet is Education. No piece of software or hardware can replace teaching your kids right from wrong, and candidly discussing all the bad topics that can be found on the Internet.

Some topics parents should cover:

  • Do not reveal your passwords
  • Use social networking safely
  • Do not reveal too much personal information
  • Beware of online fraud

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Software, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, iPad, iPhone, Macintosh, Safari, Windows | Tagged , | Leave a comment

How to: Safe and Secure E-mail

Posted on January 1, 2012 by Safe Gadget

Spam, can of spam less sodium

Every computer user uses e-mail. Security breaches make headlines almost daily. With more and more people going online, consumers are worried more than ever about keeping their e-mail safe and secure. E-mail is the major way most malware is transmitted across the Internet. E-mail is the largest attack vector against large companies, as it is far more difficult to physically infiltrate a company. In this article, we will help you use e-mail more securely.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

The Golden rules of the Internet:

  • Do not trust anyone
  • If it is too good to be true, it probably is
  • Don’t install software from anonymous sources
  • Don’t automatically hit “yes” to any pop-up
  • If it looks suspicious, run

Secure Your Router

1. Configure your wireless router for optimal security. Consult our article How to set up a secure wireless router for details. For maximum security, access your e-mail when connected by a hardwired connection such as Ethernet.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Macintosh, Online Service, Password, Phishing, Spyware, Virus, Windows | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

SafeGadget.com iPhone and Android App Now Available

Posted on December 23, 2011 by Safe Gadget

iPhone, Apple iPhone Smartphone, iPhone 3GS

SafeGadget.com’s Free SafeGadget iPhone App is now available in the Apple App store.  Stay up to date with all our latest security tips on your SmartPhone. Search the App Store for SafeGadget on your iPhone to find it.

SafeGadget.com’s Free Android App is available in Google play formerly known as Android Market.

Posted in Android, iPad, iPhone, Smartphone, Windows | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

How to Safely use Twitter

Posted on December 9, 2011 by Safe Gadget

Twitter Logo

Twitter is becoming more popular everyday. With millions of people to be targeted, Twitter is definitely a battleground for security and privacy. This website has become a worldwide hit and consequently has become a target for those intent on spamming, spreading worms, and stealing private information. In this article, we will cover many techniques to allow you to safely use Twitter.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

It is important that you follow the tips above to ensure your computer is secure. There have been Twitter Spam Attacks caused when malware infects a computer and gives control of the user’s Twitter account to a spammer. The spammer then posts messages on Twitter offering everything from Free items to pictures of celebrities, all appearing to be posted by the infected user. If one of your friends clicks on the offer, they instantly get infected, repeating the cycle of malware propagation.

Access the Real Twitter

Always make sure you are at a real Twitter log in page when you access their site. Do not count on Twitter links in email or on web pages to access the real Twitter website.

Think before Clicking on Links

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Online Service, Phishing, Safari, Spyware, Virus | Tagged | Leave a comment

How to use Wireless Networks or Wi-Fi securely in Public

Posted on November 8, 2011 by Safe Gadget

Free wireless Internet, Wi-fi, sign

Free Wi-Fi is available in many locations, from your local café or Starbucks to McDonald’s and many other restaurants. Using these mostly unsecured, public wireless networks puts your information at risk. It is important to employ several safeguards when surfing at a public hotspot. If you are using a cybercafe’s shared computer, we would only use it to view information, not to even get your e-mail. Chance are high that it is compromised.

Many public wireless networks are completely unencrypted so that users can log on to them easily. This opens up a huge security hole as any hacker or sophisticated computer user could easily see all the sensitive data being transmitted. Passwords to online stores or email accounts can be easily captured by increasingly easy to use tools. In this article, we will help you access public wireless networks safely. Settings within your operating system may need to be optimized, additional software installed, and third party services may need to be subscribed to.

McDonalds Free Wi-Fi

Finding Free Wi-Fi

  • Boingo has a Wi-Fi locator. The Starbucks and McDonald’s entries are free.
  • jiwire has a Wi-Fi hot spot locator

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, iPad, iPhone, Linux, Macintosh, Online Service, Online Shopping, Safari, Smartphone, Windows, Wireless Networking | Tagged , , , , , | 11 Comments

iPhone Security, How to securely use your iPhone

Posted on November 2, 2011 by Safe Gadget

Apple iPhone 3GS

Most iPhone users do not think very much about security. The iPhone is part of Apple’s closed ecosystem, helping to prevent viruses and malware from wreaking havoc. As the iPhone has grown in popularity, the smartphone has become more of a target by hackers and criminals. It is important that iPhone users immediately become more vigilant about smartphone security.  Our tutorial covers the iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, and iPhone 5.

1. iPhone Software Updates

Apple upgrades the iOS software for the iPhone from time to time. Updates include additional functionality as well as security bug fixes. It is important that users apply updates immediately. Before iOS 5 users needed to connect their iPhones to a computer in order to update the smartphone’s software. Needless to say, this was inconvenient and led to many iPhones with obsolete software.

iOS 5 allows updates to occur without the iPhone being connected to a computer, allowing users to stay current far easier. We recommend all owners of the iPhone 3GS and the iPhone 4, upgrade to iOS 5 immediately. iOS 5 in fact includes many security fixes.

The original iPhone and the iPhone 3G cannot be upgraded to iOS 5, and should be updated by connecting to a computer as often as possible.

If you Jailbreak your iPhone, you need to be extra careful with regards to security as iOS updates are much more difficult for you. Be careful where you obtain your Jailbroken Apps as malware is much more prevalent.

2. iPhone App Security

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Hardware, iPad, iPhone, Online Shopping, Password, Safari, Smartphone, Virus, Wireless Networking | Tagged , , , , | 17 Comments

iPad Security, How to securely use your iPad

Posted on October 31, 2011 by Safe Gadget

Apple iPad, tablet computer

Most iPad users do not think very much about security. The iPad is part of Apple’s closed ecosystem, helping to prevent viruses and malware from wreaking havoc. As the iPad has grown in popularity, the tablet has become more of a target by hackers and criminals. It is important that iPad users immediately become more vigilant about tablet security. Our tutorial covers the iPad, and iPad 2.

1. iPad Software Updates

Apple upgrades the iOS software for the iPad from time to time. Updates include additional functionality as well as security bug fixes. It is important that users apply updates immediately. Before iOS 5 users needed to connect their iPads to a computer in order to update the tablet’s software. Needless to say, this was inconvenient and led to many iPads with obsolete software.

iOS 5 allows updates to occur without the iPad being connected to a computer, allowing users to stay current far easier. We recommend all owners of the iPad and the iPad 2, upgrade to iOS 5 immediately. iOS 5 in fact includes many security fixes.

If you Jailbreak your iPad, you need to be extra careful with regards to security as iOS updates are much more difficult for you. Be careful where you obtain your Jailbroken Apps as malware is much more prevalent.

2. iPad App Security

Apple’s App Store reviews all submissions before adding them. All iPad apps must be authenticated and signed which helps to ensure they haven’t been tampered with or altered. This helps prevent malicious apps from infecting the App Store. Apps are prone to security vulnerabilities, that are fixed by updates. Keep apps updated regularly and remove apps that you do not use. Regularly use the App Store app and select Updates. Apple has the ability to remotely remove malicious apps from your iPad.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Hardware, Computer Software, iPad, Online Shopping, Password, Safari, Virus, Wireless Networking | Tagged , , , , | 12 Comments

How to: Safe Online Banking and Online Trading

Posted on October 26, 2011 by Safe Gadget

PC, desktop computer

Online banking and online trading have been gaining market share every year. Security breaches make headlines almost daily. With more and more people going online, consumers are worried more than ever about keeping their online banking and online trading safe and secure. In this article, we will help you bank and trade more securely.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

1. Configure your wireless router for optimal security. Consult our article How to set up a secure wireless router for details. For maximum security, do your online banking and online trading when connected by a hardwired connection such as Ethernet.

2. Ensure that your operating system is set up securely. Consult our computer security guides for Windows and Macintosh. For maximum security, you could start off a Linux boot CD or USB key.

3. Secure your Internet browser. Consult our security guides to Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Google Chrome.

4. Make sure you are accessing the online banking or trading website is using a secure connection, look for https:// in the browser’s address bar and a padlock icon in the browser. A broken key, broken padlock, or any open lock indicates it is not secure. If you want to ensure security, see if the bank or brokerage takes transactions over the phone.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Software, Online Service, Password, Phishing, Windows | Tagged , | 1 Comment

How to: Safe Online Shopping

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Safe Gadget

PC, desktop computer

Online shopping has been gaining market share every year. Security breaches make headlines almost daily. With more and more shoppers going online, consumers are worried more than ever about keeping their online shopping safe and secure. In this article, we will help you shop more securely.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

1. Configure your wireless router for optimal security. Consult our article How to set up a secure wireless router for details. For maximum security, do your online shopping when connected by a hardwired connection such as Ethernet.

2. Ensure that your operating system is set up securely. Consult our computer security guides for Windows and Macintosh. For maximum security, you could start off a Linux boot CD or USB key.

3. Secure your Internet browser. Consult our security guides to Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Google Chrome.

4. Make sure you are shopping at a reputable online store that has a good reputation. Gone are the days when you could score a stellar deal on a iPad from a no-name vendor. Online shops need to buy and sell in volume to produce low prices. Check vendor review sites like Google Product Search, BBB online, or Reseller ratings for feedback.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Macintosh, Online Service, Online Shopping, Password, Windows | Tagged | 1 Comment

Secure Google Chrome Browsing

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Safe Gadget

Google Chrome Browser

Google Chrome is one of the most popular web browser for Windows, Mac, and Linux. This makes it a large target for malware and cybercrime. We will focus on securing Google Chrome, and will significantly increase the browser’s security through add-ins and special hardening settings. We also recommend running under Windows Vista or Windows 7, so if you are running under an older version of Windows, we recommend you to upgrade or buy a new computer. Older versions of Windows like Windows XP were not built with security in mind.

Why Chrome?

Chrome is a much newer browser than Firefox or Internet Explorer.  It is not saddled with all the baggage of IE, where a change needs to be regression tested with many parts of Windows.  Firefox has been around for a while and is also slowed down with lots of historical code.

A recent security test from Accuvant Labs found Chrome more secure, primarily due to its Sandbox technology.

Secure your computer, web browser, Internet connection

Follow our guides to secure your Windows PC or secure your Macintosh by installing the right software, firewall, antivirus software, etc. Secure your mobile devices: iPhone, Android smartphone or tablet, iPad. Configure the settings and add plug-ins to you web browser so that it is more secure. Consult our tutorials for: Internet Explorer 9, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Secure your Internet Connection: Wireless Network, Public Wi-Fi.

We recommend booting from a Linux CD or USB key when performing mission critical applications such as online banking, online trading, or online shopping.

Continue reading →

Posted in Browser, Computer Software, Google Chrome, Linux, Macintosh, Spyware, Virus, Windows | Tagged , , , , , | 10 Comments