The Internet has evolved to be a fundamental business innovation with a clearly demonstrated ability to positively affect organizations as well as individuals. Unfortunately, the Internet was not designed with security in mind - it is inherently insecure. Regardless of how many anti-virus programs, firewalls, and other security programs computer users may use, security continues to be a serious issue. And human error continues to be the weakest link in the security chain.

While human error can never be entirely eliminated, it can certainly be minimized. One of the best things that users can do to protect themselves and their information is to be aware of which behaviors may place them at risk, and to eliminate those behaviors. This article is the first in a series of three that will attempt to introduce readers to good security habits. This installment will offer a brief overview of some of the security threats that prey on bad user habits, and will introduce some fundamental secure habits that should be used for all computer applications. The ensuing articles will offer more in-depth examinations of the threats posed specifically by e-mail and Internet usage, and the habits that users can adopt to minimize the risks posed by these threats.