Welcome to the Microsoft Security Newsletter for Home Users--a monthly newsletter bringing security news, guidance, updates, and community resources directly to your Inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter here.
Top story
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It’s like taking your PC in for a tune-up and oil change at the service station. Windows Live Safety Center is a free, Web-based service that gives you quick, on-demand PC health and security scans. It also has straightforward explanations about online threats and a vibrant online community where you can get answers to questions about your PC.
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Security updates
Announcement
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To help increase your security, Microsoft will soon begin digitally signing all its security newsletters with the Internet standard called Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME). This means that if you use Microsoft Outlook or another full-featured e-mail program, you have an added assurance that the e-mail newsletter came from Microsoft and has not been tampered with. However, many Web-based e-mail programs and some other e-mail programs do not support digital signing with S/MIME. To learn more, please see this article on how digital signatures help make Microsoft security newsletters more secure.
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Protect your computer
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If you have Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) software installed on your computer, it’s due to expire on December 31, 2005. This updated beta will extend the expiration date to July 31, 2006.
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“Browser hijacking” is a common type of online attack in which hackers take control of your Internet browser and change how and what it displays when you’re Web surfing. Learn how to help protect your browser and regain control over your online experience.
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Protect yourself
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If you’re thinking about donating online to a charity this holiday season, you should know that online donation scams are on the rise. This article teaches you how to avoid holiday e-mail scams and other holiday-related scams on the Web.
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Electronic cards (e-cards) are a quick, convenient way to send holiday greetings. But some e-card providers use outdated security tools, meaning your messages aren’t necessarily private. Here are some guidelines to help protect yourself when sending e-cards.
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Protect your family
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Did you treat your kids to an Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system this holiday season? Discover all the features of Xbox 360 Family Settings, and use them to help create a safer gaming experience for your kids.
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Instant messaging can be a fast and fun way to communicate, but do you know how to help keep yourself and your family safe? Take our quiz to find out.
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