(Approx. 602 words)

The Nightmare
By Berry F. Phillips, a member of ccOKC and a frequent contributor to the eMonitor, Computer Club of Oklahoma City
www.ccokc.org 
bfpdata(at)1access.net

Obtained from APCUG with the author's permission for publication by APCUG member groups.

My computer growled like some prehistoric monster rebelling at being awakened from a deep slumber and then checking my financial data online almost by habit.  Terror pulsed through my veins as I no longer existed; all my personal data had been deleted!  I then checked to see if my credit cards were in my wallet, which gave me a momentary feeling of security that I still existed.  However, the panic returned when I remembered the credit cards while having a physical reality actually have only a cyber reality.  What did I do wrong?  Do you suppose the last time I kicked my computer out of frustration caused this animosity?  On the verge of hysteria, I shouted, "I am too young to be cyber terminated and deleted into nonexistence!"

Looking for something to save me from termination, I am very appreciative of the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) for their contribution to this article.  NCSA is a go to resource for cyber security awareness and education for the home user, and small business, and education audiences. NCSA is a private partnership whose sponsors include the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Trade Commission, and many private-sector corporations and organizations.

"The widespread availability of computers and connections to the Internet provide everyone with 24/7 access to information, credit, financial services, and shopping.  The Internet is also an incredible tool for educators and students to communicate and learn.  Unfortunately, some individuals exploit the Internet through criminal behavior and other harmful acts.  Criminals can try to gain unauthorized access to your computer and then use that access to steal your identity, commit fraud, or even launch cyber attacks against others.  By following the recommended cyber security practices outlined here you can limit the harm cyber-criminals can do not only to your computer, but to everyone's computer.

However, there is no single cyber security practice or technological solution that will prevent online crime.  These recommended cyber security practices that highlight that using a set of practices that include Internet habits as well as technological solutions can make a difference.  The National Cyber Security Alliance’s Top Eight Cyber Security Practices are practical steps you can take to stay safe online and avoid becoming a victim of fraud, identity theft, or cyber crime."

Here are the eight NCSA cyber security practices to stay safe online:  "1. Protect your personal information.  It's valuable.  2. Know who you are dealing with online. 3. Use anti virus software, a firewall, and anti-spyware software to help keep your computer safe and secure.  4. be sure to set up your operating system and Web browser software properly, and
update them regularly.  5. Use strong passwords or strong authentication technology to help protect your personal information. 6. Back up important files. 7. Learn what to do if something goes wrong. 8. Protect your children online."

Upon awakening after having once more dozed off in front of my computer while online, I saw my personal data that confirmed I really did exist.  I am alive! I have not been deleted!  It was only a nightmare.  I simply must stop watching those late night horror movies, kicking my computer in frustration, and improve my online security practices to avoid cyber fireworks.  

This article has been provided to APCUG by the author solely for publication by APCUG member groups. All other uses require the permission of the author (see e-mail address above).