In Mobile World of Computers you Don't always log on at home, But on the road Everything Changes  

Safe Public Computer use applies to these areas

Internet cafes, libraries, airports, hotels and other places that offer use of a public computer for those on the  go. But, unfortunately those computers may not always get secured well nor checked regularly.

If you bring your own Laptop follow the steps below...

so you don't become a statistic. Here are a some tips on how to protect the information on your laptop computer, if you are a Road Warrior, this disables file and print sharing

• One - Click the start button- my network places right click - select properties
• Two - Right click the icon that represents you wireless network adapter select properties
• Three - Uncheck the file and print sharing, also uncheck the client for Microsoft networks select OK
• Four - Make sure windows firewall is enabled, the icon in step two should say firewalled, if not right click on icon, select properties select advanced tab select settings select "on" and don't allow exceptions
• Don't forget to recheck file and print sharing when you return to you home or business network, just reverse the order, it's simple And, since others use them, they can get infected only minutes before it's your turn. Do not become another hacker statistic

If you plan to be away from home for a few days - but aren't using your regular PC or laptop - try to forward your email to an account you set up especially for the trip. That helps protect your information in several ways.

Tip - If you have to log in to a public computer with one of your regular userids change the password the first time you use it away from home. Then change it back when you get home. That limits your exposure time.

Public computers can contain a specific kind of spyware called 'a key logger' that records your every keystroke.

Apart from getting your password, that allows the thief to access anything else you typed in during your session. So, avoid making credit card purchases online or accessing your online banking and credit card accounts, if possible.

 Major Tip - Before you go to any site that would require a userid and/or password, disable any auto-complete or password storing feature. I

What I do folks, when I go to a strange place or even a friends house, I never, NEVER, login to my sensitive sites at all, if I want too show something to someone, I use my own laptop

If you can because some public computers have these features locked down by the administrator. Safe Public Computer Means Avoiding unfamiliar sites, if practical, while you are away.

Most online hacks come from auto-downloads of spyware, viruses, etc.

Few of the sites you visit regularly are likely to have those. Just as you would avoid talking to unsavory strangers while on a trip, avoid dicey websites.

Defer clicking on ads while you're away from hompe. Those can lead to just the kinds of sites mentioned above.

Once you are done using the safe public computer, erase - if you can - here again administrators may not allow you to access the feature - any Temporary Internet files, cookies, etc. This helps protect not only you, but leaves the computer in a better state for the next user.

Needless to say, don't leave any downloaded files on the computer and never allow anyone to look over your shoulder while you are typing in a password or other sensitive information.

Paranoia isn't needed. But a little awareness and sound judgment while using the tips here for a safe public computing will help keep your information secure - then and after you get back home.

Cheers,
Jim Novak
Stay - Safe