Eric Larkin at PC World reports that we need to get rid of the myths about the Internet to stay safe online.

Myth #1:

Misfit teens smash your computer.

Reality #1:

Gone are the days when teenagers were looking for 15 minutes of fame. Organized crime is to blame. They want money. Online black marketers put malware on computers to make money. They take over PCs to send spam, steal login details and credit card information, or hack game accounts. They use stolen webmail accounts to request contact list transfers and raid online games to sell in-game items or currency for real money. Financial fraud by cybercriminals has cost consumers and businesses billions of dollars.

Myth #2:

All you need is a good antivirus program.

Reality #2:

Mistaken. A good antivirus program will go a long way, but antivirus companies are locked in a constant battle with cybercriminals who do everything they can to stay one step ahead of antivirus software. Yes, many times security software can prevent attacks, but other times there are holes in the software and criminals take advantage. You need more security software than a good antivirus program to protect yourself from cybercrime.

Myth #3:

You’re fine if you’re just careful where you surf.

Reality #3:

This way of thinking is outdated. Years ago, you could tell if a site was dangerous just by looking at it, and if you were careful with your emails, you could do without antivirus software. Not anymore. Now, cybercriminals hack into personal pages and big-name company sites using flaws in security software to install malware. You would have to be an expert to recognize a hacked page or an email that was compromised. In addition to antivirus software, you need antispyware, antirootkit, and a two-way firewall along with a team of technicians to protect you from cybercriminals.

Myth #4:

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” requires knowing when something is broken.

Reality #4:

These days, there are hidden malicious processes, threats, files or registry keys and you need advanced anti-rootkit technology to remove them.

Myth #5:

The worst myth. We are all doomed. Stay offline.

Reality #5:

Yes, you can be hacked, but if you know the risks and prepare properly, you can enjoy what the Web has to offer. By following these simple steps, you can protect yourself from cybercriminals.

* Install antivirus+antispyware, antirootkit and two-way firewall on your computer.

* Make sure your computer has daily security updates, automatic updates to new software, and full security software support.

* Have your computer monitored daily for malware and stop malicious code before it can harm your computer.

* Get protection for emails and attachments.

* Have your own team of technicians to keep your computer clean and running smoothly.

Don’t be held hostage by cybercriminals. Don’t buy into the worst myth that criminals own the Internet and that the only good option is to use the Internet as little as possible.