The home computer is becoming as ubiquitous as the refrigerator and the microwave… but users are not expected to have an understanding of how the refrigerator and the microwave work.
However, computer users with a non-technical background are forced to learn how to protect any sensitive personal information that they store on their computer from highly skilled attackers from around the world. This seems unfair but, unfortunately, this is reality. Listed below are some security resources that are available to non-technical users that can help them secure their computer, make online game playing safer, and even give them advice about protecting their kids when they go online. Microsoft Safety and Security Center This site contains useful safety brochures, fact sheets and tip cards covering topics such as:
- Play it Safe When Gaming Online
- Protecting Young Children Online
- Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft Online
US-CERT (United States-Computer Emergency Readiness Team) The “General Documents” section of this site has many documents designed to help non-technical users understand the basics of using computers, the Internet, and general cyber-security information. Topics include
- Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams
- Securing Your Web Browser
- Banking Securely Online
NSA “Best Practices for Keeping Your Home Network Secure” This document provides a good overview of what everyone should be doing to keep systems safe. Tips, such as warning users that cell phones equipped with cameras could be storing their location in photos, keep users aware that many technologies do more than they expect.
