[moosescooter]

I am concerned about sending sensitive data, such as information to a credit bureau, over the internet.

Reputable companies assure they have security to protect sensitive information, but I am more concerned with security from my computer and transmission over the internet.

I have Trend Micro that provides protection against virus, spyware, and a firewall. It is gets regular updates.

Microsoft Windows important and recommended updates are automatically installed.

Yet, knowlegable computer users tell me additional protection is needed, and one protective program leaves gaps which other programs would cover.

For real security, please advise what other security programs I need, hopefully free.

Thank you.

[Phantom010]

The free versions of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware and SuperAntiSpyware.

As a complement, you can add the free version of SpywareBlaster.

You can also try Sandboxie (free).

I also use WOT and Dr. Web Link Checker for links.

My security suite is ESET Smart Security.


And, of course, common sense.

[lunarlander]

To send data securely, you need to encrypt it. I think PGP may have a product that might suite your needs. But I think both parties need to have it installed.

[moosescooter]

Originally Posted by Phantom010

The free versions of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware and SuperAntiSpyware.

As a complement, you can add the free version of SpywareBlaster.

You can also try Sandboxie (free).

I also use WOT and Dr. Web Link Checker for links.

My security suite is ESET Smart Security.


And, of course, common sense.

Phantom010, thank you for the programs and links.

Which of them would you recommend I run to complement my TrendMicro security?

I want to run enough security programs to protect transmitted data, but don't want to run more than is necessary.

[moosescooter]

Thank you lunarlander.

[DoubleHelix]

Since you already have a full security suite installed, you need to be careful in installing other utilities which could conflict.

I think you're being unnecessarily paranoid. It's very highly unlikely that someone is hacking secure, encrypted transmissions between your computer and the destination's servers. Places like banks, credit bureaus, and all reputable shopping sites use encryption when transmitting personal data.

It's far more likely that the waiter at a restaurant will swipe your credit card number when you pay for dinner.

It's also far more likely (although still rare) that hackers would target a merchant's servers as has happened in the past. The best protections are to closely monitor your accounts for suspicious activity, check your credit reports once a year (can be done for free), and provide personal information sparingly and only when necessary.