Computer Security Guide for Paranoids: How to Thwart Hackers, Identify Thieves, and Other Cybercriminals

You make sure that you lock the doors and windows in your house to keep out thieves, and you secure valuable papers in a locked cabinet or desk. But what about all that personal information stored on your computer – Social Security number, banking accounts, credit card transactions, tax returns, date of birth?

This easy-to-read handbook outlines the most common online risks to your privacy and provides simple, inexpensive measures to avoid them. You'll learn how to

• Prevent unauthorized access to your files by data harvesters, hackers and government agents
  
• Use a wireless network without exposing yourself to the neighborhood – and the world
  
• Choose passwords that cannot be cracked
  
• Recognize keystroke-recording programs
  
• Search the Web without leaving an embarrassing or damaging trail
  
• Restrict your exposure on social networking sites to real friends
  
• Select a printer that doesn't leave an electronic fingerprint
  
• Encrypt files easily and inexpensively
  
• Spot email hoaxes instantly

Technology isn't the problem; in fact, it can be the answer if you know how to use it properly. All the security measures discussed are inexpensive (many are absolutely FREE), and you don't have to be a computer genius to implement them. It's not paranoid to be vigilant about protecting your online privacy. In today's brave new cyberworld, it's essential.