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Make your computer an 'unattractive gadget', users warned

Internet users including athletes, coaches, journalists and tourists attending the ongoing Olympic Games in Beijing have been warned not to let the excitement of the games get in the way of their online security.

The users have been warned of increased cyber crime including phishing scams taking advantage of the Games and have been given tips to avoid the pitfalls by online security expert Sophos.

Among the tips are turning off administrative rights when accessing the internet, which would make it harder for hackers to break through as well as checking that your anti-virus software is fully up to date.

Users have also been advised to set up an active personal firewall to help block unauthorised access to the computer and to turn on wireless functions such as WLAN and Bluetooth only when it is necessary.

Backing up all important data and encrypting all confidential information have also been highlighted as important.

"The most effective way to avoid the pitfalls is to make your device an unattractive target," said Carole Theriault, senior security consultant at Sophos.

The tips come following earlier warnings that big sporting events such as the Olympic Games normally prompt an increase in cyber crime activity.