Microsoft Security updates for December

Our top 10 security stories of 2010

What computer security topics do our readers care about most? Take a look at our most popular articles and blog posts from the past year.

1. Download free antivirus and antispyware software
2. Safer surfing with SmartScreen filter
3. How to recognize phishing email messages and links
4. Avoid scams that use the Microsoft name fraudulently
5. Microsoft Security Essentials vs. Windows Defender
6. Hey! Did MSN hijack my browser?
7. Watch out for fake virus alerts
8. "I've been mugged. Send money!"
9. Got a virus? Get free help fast
10. Speed up your PC

Security updates for December 14, 2010 The bulletin for December includes 17 security updates, including updates for the Windows operating system, Microsoft Office, and the Windows Internet Explorer browser. Get updates from Microsoft Update See a summary of the updates Watch a short video about the updates

Microsoft security news Watch out for fake "Security Essentials 2011" Fake security software that claims to protect your PC from malicious software, but instead infects your PC with it, is on the rise. Watch out for fake "Microsoft Security Essentials 2011." Preview the new Internet Explorer 9 privacy feature With "Tracking Protection" in the next version of Internet Explorer, you can prevent companies from tracking your behavior online. Learn more about the new feature in this interview with two Microsoft security executives. See the results of a recent Microsoft survey on cyberbullying New research by Microsoft shows that parents and educators are concerned about cyberbullying, but it's still not a top priority for schools. Read the complete findings. Check out the Microsoft Safer Online team on Facebook If you're on Facebook and want to keep up with the latest security news, check out our Safer Online page. It's full of great tips to help you and your family be safer online.

Protect your computer Using the family PC to shop for a gift? Cover your tracks with InPrivate Browsing in Internet Explorer 8, which removes all evidence of your browsing and search history. Windows XP users: Avoid "Free Public Wifi" rogue software If you use Windows XP and have tried to connect to a public wireless network, you might have seen a "Free Public Wifi" network available. Don't connect - this is malicious software that will infect Windows XP-based computers without the latest security updates. How to create strong passwords Get the secrets to creating passwords that cybercriminals can't crack - and you can remember. Plus, learn common password pitfalls to avoid.

Protect yourself and your family 6 rules for safer financial transactions online Finishing up your holiday shopping online? Remember to follow these six basic rules to minimize the risks and help protect your credit card information. Keep an eye on your kids' Internet use Your kids are online and you're busy. Windows Live Family Safety can help. This free download lets you monitor your kids' online activities, choose which websites they can visit, and even set time periods when they can use the computer. Xbox 360 and Kinect: Your questions answered Is your child using the new Kinect sensor to control the Xbox 360 entertainment system? Are you wondering about your child's privacy and online safety when using the technology? This list of frequently asked questions and answers can address your concerns.

Security resources Microsoft Online Safety: online safety and privacy education Microsoft Security: the latest in computer security Security Tips & Talk blog Microsoft Consumer Security Support Center

About this Microsoft newsletter Microsoft Security for Home Computer Users is a monthly newsletter bringing security news, guidance, updates, and community resources directly to your inbox. If you would like to receive more technical security information, see the Microsoft Security Newsletter.