The following Internet security tips have been prepared for the DCITA publication Internet Security Essentials for Small Business.  You can find more detail on these tips in the PDF files below, or in the full publication, which is available online at http://www.dcita.gov.au/communications_for_consumers/security/e-security/internet_security_essentials_for_small_business

Internet Security Essentials Top 10 Internet Security Tips

1.  Develop a 'culture of security'
Businesses need to have Internet security measures in place and make sure staff are aware of, and follow, Internet security practices.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 1 (87 kb)

2.  Install anti-virus software and keep it updated
Anti-virus software scans and removes known viruses your computer may have contracted.  It will help protect your computer against viruses, worms and trojans.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 2 (89 kb)

3.  Install a firewall to stop unauthorised access to your computer
Firewalls work like a security guard to protect your computer from intruders.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 3 (73kb) 

4.  Protect yourself from harmful emails
Be cautious about opening emails from unknown or questionable sources.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 4 (84 kb)

5.  Minimise spam
While it is not possible to completely stop spam from entering your email box, you can take steps to reduce the amount.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 5 (85 kb)

6.  Back-up your data
Creating a copy of back-up of data is a sensible way to ensure that you can recover all of your business information from your computer or website quickly and easily.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 6 (90 kb)

7.  Develop a system for secure passwords
Creating effective paswords can provide an additional means of protecting the information on your computer.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 7 (79 kb)

8.  Keep your software up-to-date
If your software is out of date, you are more vulnerable.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 8 (80 kb)

9.  Make sure your online banking is secure
If you bank online you should follow security advice provided by your financial institution.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 9 (85 kb)

10.  Develop and maintain a security policy
You need to monitor and test security polcies.
 Internet Security Essentials Tip 10 (75 kb)

In addition to the top ten e-security tips listed above, the following fact sheets were prepared for DCITA's 2002 publication, Trusting the Internet (the whole publication is available at http://www.dcita.gov.au/communications_and_technology/publications_and_reports/2002/july/trusting_the_internet_-_a_small_business_guide_to_e-security).

 Trusting the Internet Fact Sheet - How do I choose the best authentication system? (101 kb)

 Trusting the Internet Fact Sheet - How do I make sure my digital certificates and keys are secure? (72 kb)

 Trusting the Internet Fact Sheet - How do I manage my e-security when the service is outsourced? (75 kb)

 Trusting the Internet Fact Sheet - How do I tell if I'm completing a secure transaction? (187 kb)

 Trusting the Internet Fact Sheet - How do I set up a secure website? (82 kb)