The so-called "denial-of-service" attacks that have hammered Yahoo! don't pose much of a threat to cable modem users in the home. Yet there are ways that hackers, viruses and other scoundrels lurking on the Internet can pierce your broadband bubble. But rather than live in fear, you can take some common-sensical precautions that will protect your computer-bound files, as well as your privacy.
Avoiding Virus Infections
At the top of the list of Internet risks are viruses: malicious programs intended to destroy data on your computer or crash targeted software applications. Viruses can be attached to e-mail messages -- even ones sent by unwitting friends and colleagues. Remember the Love virus? How about Melissa? Viruses also can be pushed to your computer through interactive Web applications, including Java applets, ActiveX code and poisoned cookies.
The best way to combat virus threats is to install anti-virus software, such as McAfee VirusScan or Norton Anti-Virus, that automatically scans files received via e-mail. It's also a good idea to run the programs regularly to check for viruses that may have penetrated your computer through a stealth delivery method.
To avoid rogue applets, ActiveX code and cookies, try not to visit unfamiliar Web sites, particularly sites that look as if they're run by shady characters. You also can configure your Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator browser to require your approval before downloading these types of applications.