a. Use a firewall - The first and most fundamental step you can take to protect your system is to install a firewall. By having properly configured and updated firewall software operating on your PC, you can stop hackers and other unauthorised system use.

b. Use anti-virus software - Make sure you install appropriate software to protect your PC and then keep it active and up to date.

c. Be wary of e-mail attachments - Many viruses, worms, hoaxes, trojan horses and other forms of malicious software still spread themselves via e-mail, usually as attachments. Unless you trust the sender and you’re absolutely sure what is in the attachment, don’t open it.