DON'T

6. Don't go online unless your PC is fully patched. Update your operating system regularly with the latest security patches from Microsoft by turning on the Windows auto-update feature. The Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer tool can also be used to pinpoint security related misconfigurations and security updates that are missing.

7. Don't click on links or open attachments in e-mail messages from unknown senders. It may only take a few misguided clicks to infect your PC.

8. Don't make hasty online purchases. Check out the seller, what you are buying, and the payment details before you pay. If you’re hesitant to enter your credit card details online, consider using a separate credit card with a low credit limit for online transactions. Some credit card companies also offer an “e-card” solution that gives you the ability to create a temporary card number to be used just once or with a spending limit.

9. Don't disclose personal or sensitive information online without first exercising caution. Verify why the information is needed and that it is absolutely necessary to give out. Keep in mind that security conscious banks and credit card companies will not urge users to send personal details by e-mail or ask users to login to their account via a link provided in an e-mail message – be alert to these kinds of fraudulent messages.

10. Don't shop on sites that are not secure. If the URL begins with “https://” it indicates a secure connection where the information is being encrypted. You can also check your browser window for a padlock icon, another indication that a website is secure.