Set up your operating system and Web browser software properly, and update them regularly.

Be sure to  set up your  operating  system and  Web browser  software properly, and  update them regularly.

Hackers take advantage  of Web browsers (like  Internet Explorer or  Firefox) and operating  system software (like  Windows or Linux)  that are unsecured.  Lessen your risk  by changing  the settings  in your  browser or  operating  system to  increase  your online  security.  Check the  “Tools” or  “Options”  menus for  built-in security features.  For help in understanding your  choices, use your “Help” function. Your operating system also may  offer free software “patches” that close  holes that hackers could exploit. Many  popular operating systems can be set  to automatically retrieve and install  patches. If your system does not do  this, bookmark the manufacturer’s  website so you can visit often and  update your system with defenses  against the latest attacks. Your email  software may help you avoid viruses by  giving you the ability to filter certain  types of spam. It may be up