How to safeguard our personal and financial data?

Today, most people rely on computers especially the Internet to create, store and manage critical information. Information transmitted over the Internet is more vulnerable and has a higher degree of security risk than internal networks because they are open to anyone. Therefore, it is important that users take measure to protect their data from loss, damage and misuse.

Use a credit card with a small limit for mail-order and online purchases. It's all too easy for a dishonest sales clerk to use your credit card information. If the card you use for these purchases has a low credit limit, at least thieves won't be able to rack up many bills before hitting a wall.
Choose your PIN wisely. While you want to choose something you'll remember, you don't want it to be something that a clever thief could figure out just by learning your birth date or your child's name. A combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols will offer you more security.

Use and maintain anti-virus software and a firewall - Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable by using anti-virus software and a firewall. Make sure to keep your virus definitions up to date.
Regularly scan your computer for spyware - Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may affect the performance of your computer and give attackers access to your data. Use a legitimate anti-spyware program to scan your computer and remove any of these files. Many anti-virus products have incorporated spyware detection.

Keep software up to date - Install software patches so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should turn it on.

Use passwords and encrypt sensitive files - Passwords and other security features add layers of protection if used appropriately. By encrypting files, you ensure that unauthorized people can't view data even if they can physically access it.