EDS releases cybersecurity tips

PLANO, Texas, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Texas-based technology services company EDS has announced eight tips for preventing cyber crimes in support of National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

Officials estimate billions of dollars in damages to the United States economy are the result of cyber crimes. In an effort to support National Cyber Security Awareness Month, EDS security and privacy experts have listed eight tips to improve security in cyberspace.

"The big business and government approach to cybersecurity contrasts sharply with many small business and home computer users who can unsuspectingly be the back doors to a full-scale cyberattack," Dave Morrow, EDS chief security and privacy officer, said in a statement. "This weakness at the grassroots level requires all users to be responsible citizens in the collective online world with equal time and energy spent to protect these computers. Everyone must practice safe computing habits and good personal computing hygiene."

Among the EDS tips are knowing what the cyber threats are, installing and using security applications like anti-virus software or anti-spyware software, being smart online, never responding to unsolicited requests for personal information, being aware of phishing e-mails, not using personal information for passwords, reviewing privacy and security policies with Internet-based companies and monitoring online activity regularly.

EDS officials recommend corporations and governments devote more time to fostering a safe online world with the same philosophy for Internet use at home.