As so much information is created and stored on a computer or network, it is important to have a system that will maintain the security and confidentiality of that data. This can be done in a variety of ways.

• Back up and carefully store important infor­mation. A backup of information may help protect data from the threat of computer viruses, worms, or Trojan horses.
• Protect hardware and data by assigning ef­fective passwords.
• Create passwords that are at least eight characters in length
• Use both lowercase and capital letters
• Use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters
• Use different passwords on different systems
• Do not use passwords that are based on personal information that can be easily accessed or guessed
• Do not use words that can be found in any dictionary of any language
• Develop a mnemonic for remembering complex passwords i.e. choose the title of your favourite song and use the first letter of each word for a password
• Log off the computer or network when away from your desk. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing information inappro­priately.

Because individual passwords are not always as secure as they should be, many organizations use other forms of verification in addition to passwords. One method used is two-factor authentication, where an individual is required to provide a password and an additional item such as a smart card, security badge, fingerprint, or retinal scan for identification purposes.

To protect your computer from threats including viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, adhere to the following guidelines:

• Protect yourself against malicious email attach­ments. Do not open attachments from people you do not know.
• Make sure the settings on your email program do not open attachments automatically.
• Be cautious even when opening attachments from people you do know because worms can automatically send to individuals listed in an address book.
• Install an antivirus program on all computers and run virus scans regularly.
• Obtain virus software updates regularly to protect equipment from new threats.
• Check downloaded programs for viruses, worms, or Trojan horses. New threats come out every day and equipment is vulnerable when security software is not up-to-date.
• Back up files regularly. Scan the backup pro­gram before archiving disks and files.

Another way to protect your computer and data from security threats is to install and maintain a firewall. A firewall is a software program that monitors information as it enters and leaves a computer. A firewall provides pro­tection from outside attackers by shielding your computer or network from malicious or unnec­essary Internet traffic. Firewalls can be configured to prevent random attacks by outsiders on your computer while still allowing relevant and necessary data through. For example, a firewall allows individuals to access the Internet, but blocks other computers from accessing any in­formation that is stored on your system. Firewall software operates in a manner similar to a two-way mirror: You can see out, but no one else can see in! Firewall software is especially important to businesses that maintain personal and private information, such as physicians, police agencies, and universities.