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Provides practical tips from the federal government and technology industry to help consumers guard against Internet fraud, secure their computers, and protect personal information.

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Stop • Think • Click: An Overview of Computer Security
The internet gives you access to information, entertainment, financial offers – frankly, countless products and services. At the same time, it can leave you open to online scammers, identity thieves, and more. Learn experts' top tips for computer security.
Broadband

Broadband refers to high-speed Internet access available through services like digital subscriber line (DSL), cable, fiber optic, wireless, or satellite. Learn about the types of services that are available, and the questions to ask to get the best deal for your needs – whether you shop, play games, make phone calls, watch movies, listen to music, or use other applications.
Computer Disposal

Computers are newer, better, faster—but how do you safely dispose of last year’s model? Learn what to do before getting rid of your old computer so your personal information – and the environment – are protected.
Cross-Border Scams

The internet has opened access to a world of goods and services. Learn how some unscrupulous people are using it to commit cross-border thievery through foreign lottery offers, money offers, and check overpayment schemes.
Email Scams

Most people agree that getting "spam" is annoying. Spam – unsolicited sales pitches – also can be costly, with offers for bogus products and fraudulent promotions. Learn to spot 10 common spam scams and what to do if one shows up in your inbox.
Identity Theft

Identity thieves can steal your money and ruin your credit rating. Learn how to protect your identity, what to do should it be stolen, and how to minimize the damage quickly by putting a fraud alert on your credit report.
Internet Auctions

Internet auction sites expand your access to markets for buying and selling merchandise. Learn how to navigate online auctions and recognize potential snags, including late shipments, bogus escrow services, and check overpayment scams.
Kids' Privacy

One of the many choices kids face online is how to deal with their personal information. Learn more about your rights as a parent and what you can do to help your kids make smart, safe choices online.
Laptop Security

Your laptop is your desk-on-the-go, helping you work no matter where you are. Learn how to keep your laptop out of the hands – and off the laps – of a stranger.
Malware

Criminals sometimes use malware – programs like viruses and spyware – to get into your computer. Once it's there, they use it to steal information, send spam, and commit fraud. Learn the signs of malware and how to reclaim your computer and the information it stores.
Online Investing

While the internet features investment opportunities, the rules say, "caveat investor." Learn more about the relationship between risk and reward, and hackers, scammers, and identity thieves who use investment opportunities to wreak havoc on your personal finances.
Online Shopping

Shopping online … it's easy, fast, and convenient. Learn how to identify disreputable vendors or fraud artists that may be setting up shop – and how to minimize your chance of a shopping mishap.
P2P Security

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing enables people to share files online through an informal network. P2P can give you access to lots of information, but also can up your exposure to viruses, spyware, illegal material and more. Find out how to minimize your risks when using P2P.
Phishing

When fraudsters send spam or pop-up messages, they're casting a wide net in hopes of getting people to divulge their personal and financial information. Learn how to spot a phishing message, how to avoid getting "hooked," and what to do if – oops - you realize you've been phished.
Social Networking Sites

Social networking sites are big. And while these sites can increase your circle of friends, they also can increase your exposure to people with less-than- friendly intentions. Learn how to help your kids – and other family members – socialize online safely.
Spyware

Criminals can install stealth software on your computer that lets them steal your identity and do other damage. Learn what spyware is, how to tell if it's on your computer and get rid of it, and how to avoid it altogether.
VoIP

VoIP is a way to make and receive phone calls using a broadband internet connection instead of a traditional phone line. Read about the pros and cons of making the switch – and some questions to ask – as you weigh your options.
Wireless Security

Wireless internet access offers convenience and mobility. Learn how to keep your wireless network and the computers on it more secure using encryption and other techniques.