*Install a firewall and other security software to protect your computer and your private information.
*Always download stuff from reputable sources.
*If you must download from an unknown source, make sure to scan the files for malware before viewing or listening to them.
*If you try to open a downloaded video and get a prompt that you need to download a proprietary codec from a specific site, don't do it. Delete the file right away.
*Make sure that all shopping and banking transactions are SSL encrypted. You should see an icon of a lock in the bottom of your browser window or in the window when it comes time to type in your personal and credit card information.
*When shopping online or banking online always log off the account, closing the window is not enough.
*Never open e-mail attachments from people you don't know
*Never click on links that you don’t know especially advertisements that seem too good to be true.
*When surfing Craigslist, surf wisely, don’t fall for scams that promise you large profits for helping someone out. If the location of the product is not listed in your area, don’t bother it is probably a scam.
*When chatting with people, don’t give away personal information, bad things could happen.