How to set up your computer securely

How much effort you have to put in to protecting your PC — and, of course, your privacy — and making sure you can surf the Internet worry-free will depend above all on your particular requirements.

The BSI has created specific guides on how to configure PCs running Windows and Ubuntu or Macs running Apple OS X securely for personal use. These guides cover the complete lifecycle, from purchasing the system, to installation and initial operation, regular use and even disposal.

Basic protection made easy!

Lots of private users surf the Internet on computers that are not adequately protected against online risks. Criminals exploit this situation by infecting such computers with malware, for example, then misusing them for their own ends. This could cause you significant damage.

Criminals could delete or spy on your data, for instance, order goods in your name and at your cost from online shops, manipulate your online banking transactions or block you from accessing your own bank account. Criminals could also make your computer part of a botnet, then use it to carry out cyber attacks on companies or other institutions and to send spam e-mails.