Protecting yourself against Hackers

Avoid making yourself a target by not broadcasting valuable item information, like possessing a "Triple Critical Jur", in public chat channels in towns like Prontera.

Install and use a Firewall, regardless of your internet connection type (Dial-up, Cable, PPoE DSL). A Firewall screens internet traffic, acting like a security officer. Zone Alarm is a free option that may initially prompt frequently but quiets down over time. Norton Internet Security is a less intrusive paid alternative. Ensure you understand what programs (e.g., ABCD.exe) are requesting access before granting it.

Run Anti-virus software constantly and update its virus definitions weekly. This is especially important if you are unfamiliar with differentiating file types like batch files from macros. Free online checks are available at housecall.antivirus.com.

Avoid Peer-to-Peer (P2P) programs like Kazaa, as downloaded files can potentially contain viruses, worms, or keyloggers.

Enable the viewing of file extensions and hidden files in your folder options. This allows you to identify disguised files (e.g., a VBS file masquerading as an MPEG) and makes hidden hacker programs visible. To do this, open any folder, go to Tools, Folder Options, click the View tab, select "Show Hidden files or folders", and uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types".

Set an Administrator password for Windows 2000/XP. Ensure "Users must enter a name and password" is checked in Users and Passwords (accessible via Start, Settings, Control Panel), then click "Set password for all the users on your computer". Avoid simple passwords.

Avoid logging in as an Administrator unless performing administrative tasks, as this grants hackers more access.

Turn off File and Print Sharing. In Windows 9x, right-click Network Neighborhood, select properties, or double-click Network in Control Panel, then click "File and Print Sharing" and uncheck both options. In Windows 2000/XP, right-click "My Network Connections", select properties, right-click your internet connection, select properties again, and uncheck "File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks".

Run Windows Update regularly, ideally weekly, to patch security vulnerabilities.

Avoid visiting untrustworthy websites. Decline any security prompts asking to run unknown programs unless you are certain the website is safe.

Do not enter sensitive data, such as credit card numbers, on websites unless the padlock icon is visible in the lower right corner, indicating an encrypted connection.

Never open email attachments unless you have explicitly arranged to receive a specific file from a known sender. This is a primary method for virus and malware distribution.

Exercise common sense in your online activities.