Concerned about your computer, but confused about how to keep it safe? Here’s a look at some helpful hardware and software
The home PC is increasingly a trove of sensitive information, whether it’s your family’s tax and health records or prized photos and home movies. For small-business owners and those who work from home, personal computers may also be a repository of proprietary company data — none of which you want to end up in the wrong hands.
There are plenty of hands grabbing for it, and scam artists are getting increasingly smart about how they do it. Here’s a look at a range of items you can use to keep them at bay — and your PC safe.
Vanquishing Viruses
Norton Internet Security
Symantec
$69
Some of the biggest threats to your computer are ones you can’t see. Their conduit: the Internet. An important first line of defense is antivirus software. Sure, you can get some protection free from your Internet service provider, but Symantec sells an all-in-one package that includes antivirus code, spam filtering, and tools for detecting and removing spyware. Symantec also runs a threat-research center that’s constantly on the prowl for the latest viruses and Trojans, and sends regular updates to software users.
Thieves on Film
Security cameras
DEMCO
$135-$220
Then there are the threats you can see, or at least capture on film. If you’re concerned about break-ins or tampering, these tiny cameras, safely hidden inside an exit sign, clock, or simulated smoke detector help you keep tabs on your office or home when you’re not around. They don’t take much to run either. Each uses one AA battery, shoots in black-and-white or color, and ports footage to a TV, VCR, or computer.
Outta My Wi-Fi
Wireless-G Media Storage Link Router
Linksys
$129.99
PCs are being used as much for entertainment as for work nowadays. So you likely need protection not just for documents and spreadsheets, but also for music and video. This router, which enables high-speed wireless Internet access, can ensure safe transfer of data to and from linked storage devices within the home. The router boasts 128-bit, industrial-strength encryption to ensure that neighbors and passersby can’t tap into your network. It can even serve as a firewall, protecting your PC from hackers.
Fingerprint Protection
COMBO Mini
Silex Technology
$179
Everyone’s PC has something to hide, from income tax figures to the bachelor-party photos you didn’t show your fiancée. To guard against unauthorized access, this portable fingerprint sensor plugs into a computer’s USB port. The device stores a detailed description, or algorithm, of a fingerprint on a removable card that can be used to secure multiple PCs. If you’re especially edgy about your data, you can program the COMBO Mini so that users also need to enter an ID number.
Keyed Up
SecuriKey
Griffin Technologies
$130
Here’s another take on restricting unauthorized access. SecuriKey serves as a key to your laptop or desktop PC, and it’s small enough to fit on a key ring. It supports both Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s Mac OS X. You can use the Securikey to control access to an entire machine or just to selected files and directories.
Code a Minute
RSA SecurID Authentication
RSA Security
Pricing varies
Hackers can unearth or guess a PIN. But they’ll have a harder time getting over this hurdle. RSA’s authenticator generates a new, unpredictable multidigit code every 60 seconds. Used alongside a PIN or password, it adds a crucial second layer of authentication that’s virtually impossible for an intruder to penetrate.
Tracking Stolen Goods
XTool Computer Tracker
Computer Security Products
$46.55/year
Despite your best efforts, your computer could still end up lost or stolen. Not to worry. This transmitter will help you trace the machine and even delete files remotely. Once installed, the software forces your computer to send a signal whenever the computer is rebooted or connected to a phone line or the Internet. A recovery team can work with local authorities and phone-service providers to track down the missing goods.
