Current trends, and our own experience, show us that identity theft, online fraud, viruses, and spam are on the rise. Everywhere you turn, friends and the people we serve have computers that are infected with viruses and other forms of malware.

Below you'll find some simple steps that you can follow to reduce the chance of being affected by the ills of the internet. Nothing is guaranteed, but hopefully you will find this a helpful resource that will make life a little easier for you.

The information below is offered as suggestions only; there is no "silver-bullet" to online safety, so if you already have systems in place that protect you and you are satisfied with them, then simply take what you can and leave the rest. For some, reading all of the reviews, weighing different products, staying on "the cutting edge", etc. is essential. Others just need the bottom line of what to use and where to get it. This guide has principles we all should follow, and also has very specific information for those who need it.