Thomas wrote:So I just installed the NoScript and Flashblock extensions for Firefox. I believe NoScript should greatly help protect me against malicious scripts should I accidentally come across any or if some ad has been compromised.
I haven't had any problems in over 3 years, but I would rather be safe than sorry. My computer proficiency is very high, but I'm sure not as high as those who work with computers for a living, so please don't hold back any ideas because they're too complicated for the average person.
To do: HOSTS file
QUESTION 1: Other than upgrading to Windows 7 and staying current with all updates, what other precautions can I take to protect my computer?
QUESTION 2: I like the idea of NoScript blocking tracking scripts. What other things can I do to protect my privacy?
QUESTION 3: I like the idea of Flashblock stopping most ads. It's extremely annoying when the audio in some ad starts playing and I can't find it, or it doesn't even have a mute button (curse the person who made that decision). What other things can I do to protect my sanity?
QUESTION 4: Any ideas on the best place to get a copy of a good HOSTS file?
My Setup:
Windows XP Pro SP3
Windows SteadyState
Microsoft Security Essentials
Firefox
- NoScript
- Flashblock
Most importantly, I use Common Sense 2010 Professional Version:
(I'm not a brain-dead idiot that clicks on stupid links/games/offers/deals/etc)
additional suggestions:
Spywareblaster
http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
1) can create system snapshot
2) Host file backups
3) prevents lots of spyware stuff rather than trying to remove it later
Doesn't slow anything down, it just immunizes and has tools.
I use
Comodo firewall and Antivirus in addition to Windows firewall, the "Internet Security" and they also have other products for backup etc if you want (free)
http://www.comodo.com/products/free-pro ... sk3=comodo" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
And, never restart/shut down without cleaning first.
Some new Malware use an old method of ceating two files, one seemingly harmless file which another file on restart will rename the first file into an executable type file.
I use
CCleaner several times a day, usually each time I close the browser
It also has tools, so things which programs like RealPlayer and Quicktime install which autostart to check for updates all the time can be temporarily disabled if you only use them like once every 2 years to watch Senate/House hearings etc.
And, it cleans alll the Temporary stuff, and cleans registry from things uninstallers leave behind
http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
AND I noticed in CCleaner just now, I forgot to mention ...
I also run
Microsoft's Security Essentials FREE ... it eliminated 2 trojans from "The Cloud"
(MSC is running and set to AutoStart)
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/wind ... essentials" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
All 4 I listed above are free
CCleaner can be set to check for updates as it starts
Comodo will autoupdate itself
Microsoft Security Essentials will Autoupdate itself
Spywareblaster, you can manually check for updates and it's free, or pay a fee and it will Autoupdate.
additional CCleaner Screenshot below
That's a lifetime for a PC.
There is a reason I don't work in any end-user support capacity anymore. 
