A software-based laptop alarm developed by Syfer can be installed in your laptop to counter laptop theft. The alarm ensures safety of your laptop in a public area, for example, a library or an office.

The alarm is triggered by numerous user settings - when the mouse is moved, a keyboard is touched or if the power cord is removed without the users input. It sounds loud enough for the user to take action and does not turn off until properly done so. The software is compatible with all windows platforms and also has version for Mac. Syfer is currently offering the laptop alarm free to try - http://www.syfer.nl/

Even on trusted sites you need to be on the look out for malicious software, or malware. Many scam artists are now using information shared on social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace to send fraudulent email messages, called "phishing" scams. Phishing scams employ fraudulent email messages or Web sites that try to fool you into divulging personal information. The email may appear to come from your bank asking that you update your bank information or it may have a link for you to click on to go to a site that you may think is real, but it is a fake website. This site may request sensitive information in order to steal your identity.

Spear phishing, aimed at businesses, is a highly targeted phishing attack used to gain access to a company’s entire computer system. An email is sent to employees or members in a group, organization, government agency or company. This email is made to appear very real in that it may look like it is being sent from your employer or colleague, such as an individual within your Human Resources department or from someone who manages your computer system. This email would request your username and password, if you respond, or if you click links or open attachments in a spear phishing e-mail, pop-up window, or Web site, you might become a victim of identity theft and you might also put your employer or group at risk.

Tips to help you avoid spear phishing scams:

• Never reveal personal or financial information in a response to an e-mail request, no matter who appears to have sent it.
• If you receive an e-mail message that appears suspicious, call the person or organization listed in the From line before you respond or open any attached files.
• Never click links in an e-mail message that requests personal or financial information. Enter the Web address into your browser window instead.
• Don't post any information on your blog or social networking site that could be used by identity thieves to target you, your family or friends, or your company.
• Report any e-mail that you suspect might be a spear phishing campaign within your company.
• Use Internet Explorer 7 with Phishing Filter, which scans and helps identify suspicious Web sites, and provides up-to-the-hour updates and reporting on known phishing sites.