Another huge cyber criminal act

This morning I read this post at Animesh's blog and it really gave me shivers about the amount of damage our perfunctory behaviour or laziness can do... Thanks Animesh....

Shamelessly copying the article here :)

Business Week is reporting on a crackdown by the feds on a group of hackers called the ShadowCrew.

I strongly recommend that all of you read this article till the end and realize that installing a firewall and antivirus is not an optional thing anymore.Also, please update your software timely.

Please do not ignore the flashing windows update icon on your desktop.
Interestingly, most of these things are free.Windows Update - Please update your windows machines regularly. Turn on that auto update.
or better
Install Linux

Also, Install Firefox to surf the web instead of Internet Explorer.

Install Thunderbird to check your mail instead of outlook.

Remember to use Ad-Aware and Spybot periodically to check your system for spyware.Install Sygate Firewall.
The Free version [linked here] is also very easy to useInstall AVG anti-virus. The linked version is also free.So you see, you can secure your system for free.. it is easy and simple.. just like you can secure your home with a few simple practices [like locking your main door]Please post a comment if you think this blurb from me was helpful.. or if you think something was missing.

I am going to follow all the precautions suggested by Animesh in my new laptop which will be with me soon, hope you guys also do the same :).

- Nishant