Windows 7 / Getting Started

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Getting the most from the SmartScreen Filter

By default, SmartScreen Filter is enabled and checks visited sites against the Microsoft database. If desired, you can turn off SmartScreen Filter by clicking the Safety button on the toolbar and choosing SmartScreen Filter → Turn Off SmartScreen Filter. In the resulting Microsoft SmartScreen Filter dialog box, click Turn off SmartScreen Filter and click OK.

If you turn off SmartScreen Filter, you can manually check the page you're currently viewing by clicking Safety → SmartScreen Filter → Check this Website.

Caution Some fraudulent Web sites will tell you to ignore phishing filters. Don't believe it. Why would a valid Web site tell you to ignore a safety feature like that? It's like someone telling you it's OK to run a stop sign.

If you have turned off SmartScreen Filter, you can easily turn it back on. Click Safety → SmartScreen Filter → Turn On SmartScreen Filter. What if I've already been tricked?

If you think you may have given away your password to a phishing scam already, change your password or PIN as soon as possible. Log in to your account through your Web browser, not from a link in any e-mail message. Then use whatever means that Web site provides to change your password.

How do I protect myself in the future?

When you get an e-mail concerning any online account you have, don't click links in the e-mail message. Go to the Web site directly with your browser, using the same URL you always do. Also, never give out a password or PIN in an instant message, e-mail message, or over the phone.

Remember, when it comes to protecting your online assets, knowledge is power. Ignorance is vulnerability. To keep abreast of current scams and ways to stay safe online, visit www.microsoft.com/athome/security. Also, consider subscribing to the Security At Home RSS Feed at www.microsoft.com/athome/security/rss/rssfeed.aspx.