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1. KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOWNLOADING. Many Trojan horses are downloaded through an executable file (a file with an ".exe" extension). If you don't know where it's from or what exactly it is, don't download it! It could infect your computer as soon as you run it.
2. KEEP ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE UPDATED. Anti-Virus software scan the virus by virus footprints. Keeping your Anti-Virus software updated will help to detect the new Viruses and Trojan horses.
3. INSTALL A FIREWALL AND KEEP IT UPDATED. Firewall software will help keep your computer and the information safe. When your computer is connected to the Internet, remote computer can gain access to your computer and grab your SSN, credit card numbers and bank account information. Just as you don't leave your house unlocked with a sign that says "Come on in and help yourself," you shouldn't leave your computer unlocked either.
4. AVIOD BROWSING SUSPICIOUS WEBSITES. Some websites contain malicious code, i.e. spyware. They will break into your computer when you browse those websites.
5. BACKUP YOUR SYSTEM. Backup your system regularly in case you do fall victim to a virus or Trojan horse. This will allow you to fully restore your system quickly and prevent you from losing your information.
6. TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER WHEN YOU'RE NOT USING IT. If you are not connected to the Internet, you cannot be hacked or attacked.
7. USE COMMON SENSE. If you don't know where a file is from, don't open it. Consider storing your very personal information (passwords, tax records, bank information, etc.) on a CD and use the CD only when you need the information.