1. Install up-to-date anti-virus software on your computer to safeguard against viruses being downloaded onto your computer
2. Use a Personal Firewall
3. Keep your browser and operating system up-to-date with Software Updates
   
4. Scan your computer for spyware regularly

It is highly recommended that your computer be scanned from time to time for protection against viruses entering your computer through emails or browsed websites. Anti-virus software with updated signatures prevents viruses from infecting your computer.

A Trojan horse is a piece of software which appears to perform a certain action, but in fact, performs another, thus potentially enabling others to gain control of your computer system remotely, without your knowledge or consent. As a result, they can capture and transmit sensitive information stored on your hard drive.

Numerous anti-virus software packages are available in the market. If you have automatic updating feature in your software package then your software gets updated after the expiry period. To avoid the agony of restoring your computer system in case it gets infected, you simply have to install anti-virus software package.

A computer is susceptible to a number of vicious encroachments and attacks through its internet connection, if it is not protected securely. You may be getting your internet connection through cable modem, digital subscribe line (DSL) or dial-up. The longer your computer and internet connection is switched on, the more the possibility of an unwanted identity penetrating your computer. This holds true more so for connections from cable modem and DSL users since these tend to remain in the 'always-on' mode.

At this juncture, a personal firewall comes to the rescue. It acts as a wall between your computer and the rest of the internet. It can be in the form of a hardware component, a software application or a combination of both. Firewalls stall malicious attacks and act as a filter for unwanted data entering your computer or private network. If an intruder tries to access your system harmfully, firewalls would warn you.

Where do security 'holes' or 'bugs' come from? They are contained in the software and the Internet activities itself that is in use. Hence, it becomes mandatory to check for security bulletins that alert you about them. To avoid any adverse effect on the software and Web browser you are using, it is crucial to visit the Web sites of your operating system and Web- browser vendors for software "patches" and "updates". Updates can be automatically made on to your system if it is so configured.

It is highly recommended that your computer and Internet connection be appropriately configured to ensure a secure internet banking session.

Did you know that spyware and adware can keep a track on your Internet activity? In all probability, it would disclose information to disreputable sources. The best practice to adopt would be downloading free spyware removal programs available on the Internet.

As a precautionary step, you can shut down your computer or internet connection when not in use.