Are you protected?
*raising my hand* My name is Single Ma and I’m an internet junkie. LOL!
My laptop and I are best friends. She’s the first thing I see when I wake up in the morning and the last thing I see when I go to bed at night. I aint lying!
I use my laptop to look up the weather before deciding what to wear.
I use my laptop to track my ‘things to do’ on Google calendar.
I use my laptop to write blog posts and read your fabulous blogs.
I use my laptop for ALL of my banking needs.
I have 8 credit cards and I peak at all of their balances everyday using the Yodlee aggregator.
I login to my personal checking account at least 2x per day and my business checking once per day, peak at my saving(s) and investment balances at least once per week, confirm my 401k and Roth contributions bi-weekly, gather all financials for a net worth update at least once per month, pay bills, shop, and make manual transfers as the need arise.
I do all of these things (and more) using my laptop, which by the way, is connected to the internet 24 hours per day. My entire life would be a big free for all if I didn’t take the proper precautions to protect my computer from malicious online activity. So when I was asked to accept a courtesy copy and review the Norton 360 PC security software from symantec, I jumped at the opportunity.
Norton 360 All-In-One Security v2.0 provides a year of automated protection for up to 3 PCs and includes the following features:
- PC Security - such as antivirus, antispyware, antiphising and scans your pc for the latest threats
- PC Tuneup - automatically tune up your pc in the background
- Automatic Backup and Restore - protects your files from loss or damage
- Identity Protection - secured for online shopping and banking with features like ‘identity safe’ to manage your online identity and transaction data and ‘eavesdrop protection’ to block suspicious programs that present a threat to your identity
- Online Protection - such as firewall protection, network protection, and advanced browser protection
It took me about 15 minutes to complete the installation and setup. Afterwards, I was able to create a Norton account. So if I ever lose my product key or want to download the latest software updates, I can login with my email/password and it will recognize my usage history.
After everything was setup, this is (sorta) what the main screen looks like…
It’s a status of all the primary features: PC Security, Identity Protection, Backup, and PC Tuneup. It’s a pretty simple report. Green means everything is protected and good to go. Yellow is a warning for your attention. The software will provide an explanation with a link if you want to take action. As you can see, I need to configure my backup files. And finally, red means there’s a threat with specific instructions for immediate action. Can’t get any easier than that.
There are also links across the top for tasks, settings, my account, product feedback, and help/support. Self explanatory. But the small ‘my network’ link in the bottom left hand corner helps you configure your wireless network. It will tell you if your network is secure, and if not, how many other computers are connected to it AND the IP address for each computer. Don’t ask me how I know. Learn something new everyday. LOL!
It also allows you to monitor the status of your network remotely. And the best thing about the network feature is that you can protect your computer from threats even when you’re on an unsecured public wireless network - you know, like Starbucks, a hotel lobby, or a bootleg connection from your neighbor. LOL! All you have to do is select the ‘trust control’ function to restrict the questionable computers OR restrict the entire network. One click and you’re done.
Either I’m a serious novice or I’m easily fascinated by the smallest things. Somehow, I think it might be both. LOL Good thing I have another 300+ days to play around with it.
Now I’m curious. What are YOU using for PC protection?
If you’re interested in Norton 360, leave a comment (one time please) and I’ll select ONE person (US only) to receive the extra copy pictured above.
ETA: Sorry, I forgot to tell you all. Norton 360 only works on PCs. I’m not sure when the MAC version will be available.
Also, I’ll leave the comments open through midnight on Sunday and use the random number generator to select a winner on Monday.
~*~*~*~*~*~Work to achieve, not to acquire.
And as always, BE FABULOUS!
If you enjoy reading this site, don't miss a thing! Subscribe to Fabulous Financials via email or RSS feed so you can receive notifications when I publish new content.
60 comments:
Write a comment:
Want an image next to your comment? Get your Gravatar here!
Have you read the Fabulous Financials comment policy lately?
You are too kind Single Ma!
I would love a chance to win the extra copy!
I am a stay at home mama - although I prefer the title “Home Manager” and I am in charge of all our finances. I do all my banking as you do, online.
AND
I have a four year old who thinks she is allowed to do whatever her mama does, including mess around on the computer when no one is looking.
I have had Norton’s reminder popping up on my screen for a looooooong while now reminding me that my subscription has ended.
Either way, thanks for the reminder. I have had an external hard drive listed on my “things I wish I could splurge on” but have put PC security on the back burner.
I would love a chance to win the extra copy, as well.
Thanks!
This is a great PC security system. It came with my husband’s laptop and since we have wi-fi, I was trying to figure out how I can know when my son was using his PSP online. This system lets you know who is on and also lets you boot them off it, you want to. I love it. Well, I did. The trial expired 2 weeks ago. I would love a copy.
Choose me, please!
I would love to try Norton 360! I’m still using the free trial that came with my laptop. Great review!
I’m using Symantic, but it’s a little older version. I would love to try Norton 360!
How did you get the free samples?
I have connections.
[-SM]
My cable company provides a free McAfee protection. It crashes my computer so I have nothing right now.
I can’t believe my computer hasn’t exploded yet. I really need to get some type of program.
Well, Single Ma I love FREE. So I googled and researched and for my pc protection I started with AVG anti-vius free edition last year. I liked it so much I just upgraded to their pay version of AVG Internet Security.
The AVG free basic version is still available.
I am currently using a free trial(Norton) offer from my bank, that is due to expire in the next month I believe. I like the ease of setup and the automatic scans it does of my pc. Sometimes it annoys me that it does the scans, but better safe than sorry. I would love to receive the extra copy.
Me me me eme…oooh oooh oooh *raising hand*
I use norton but I don’t have all of these features.. *ooh oooh I need that*
another internet junkie here! would love to win your extra copy. actually, i need it!
It’s funny you’d post on this topic. I found myself in Office Depot last night at a lost for which Norton version to purchase. There’s the Antivirus, Internet Security and the Cadillac of Norton, 360. I decided to wait to read reviews and get some feedback. Lucky for me I’m an avid Fabulous Financials reader. At any rate…I’d love to have that copy to protect my right arm (my laptop).
My husband and I just celebrated paying off half of our debt (we’ve paid off approximately 25,000 over the last year and we are on target to pay off the rest in a year’s time.
Norton 360 would sure be a nice reward ; )
I’ve been concerned about my current anitvirus protection lately and, like you, I check finances on a daily basis through my computer. I’ve been wanting to switch back to Norton (which I had a few years ago) but haven’t broken down and spent the money–I would rather put it toward the debt!
Pretty pleeeeeeaaaaaaaase? With sugar on top? And a margarita on the side???
I’ve been using an expired version of MAcAfee that is driving me bonkers.
I’ll ditto the margaritas on the side.
Ohh, I was just thinking about upgrading my PC protection - I’m using McAffe - but I’m not very happy with it (especially now that I’m running Vista). I would LOVE a chance to demo this!
I only have what came pre-installed on my laptop…actually I think it WAS some form of Norton. It actually just expired last week. I am in the process of checking into different forms of protection myself. Thanks for this post!
Hi Single Ma,
I would love to win a copy of this anti-virus protection. I do not have anti-virus protection or high-speed connection at home so I do much of my (personal) on-line research at work. I live so far in the woods that only dial-up is available and that is sooooo slooooow.
I will be getting high speed satellite connection soon.
As a single mom, I am always looking for ways to increase my income. However, my time is limited because I also care for my aging mother. It is my goal this summer to find opportunities to earn extra money online. I am already hooked up with Pinecone Research ( thanks to you) and hope to do some work with Live Person.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
After getting a rather nasty virus on my home computer I constantly keep my virus scanner updated. Lucky for me I was able to fix it quickly. I would love to have the latest Norton Security. Thanks for sharing your extra copy.
I had McAfee which did a fairly decent job of keeping my computer protected. Unfortunately my subscription lapsed and I am searching for another. Would love a chance to win a copy as well!!! Thanks!!!
I would love to receive the extra copy. I need to upgrade my computer!
Ha.. a great opportunity to win a free security product! Count me in. After the week I’ve had for the last week, it couldn’t hurt. Since I was using an experience trial version..I’ve had to deal with the frustration over the last week of a virus attacking my computer, and just decided to wipe my entire hard drive clean. I’ve learned my lesson, that for sure. And this all happened while I’m trying to finish up my thesis so I can present in two weeks.
I would love the chance to win a copy of the Norton Antivirus disk. I have stopped using my laptop for right now since I’m …….gasp…….not protected.
It’s so tempting to go without Norton because it does add up $$… but the alternative is worse!!
Pick me! Pick me!
I BIG puffy heart Norton..
I have an old version of norton running on my computer. But you’ve given me something to think about considering I use the internet daily for personal/financial transactions.
I would love to try Norton 360 too! Thanks for holding this drawing. I love your blog
I’m using Symantec, but I’d like something a little more updated. For now it gets the job done.
Hi!
Not using anything on my computer but I do too much not to be using anything.
I’d love to win
~ O.D.
I would love, love, love to receive a copy! I have to admit…I’m at a complete loss when it comes to security for my computer…do I even currently have protection? Anywho…this would be great for me!
Choose me, pretty please!
My laptop could definitely use it!!!
I have a version of Norton running on one computer and zone alarm on the other. I wonder if this new version stops popping up those annoying messages that you *have* to click on to make them go away? I’m willing to install to find out.
Been using it for a few weeks, only two pop ups so far, but they required real action. [-SM]
I must admit that I am an Internet Junkie too. I currently use McAfee Security to protect my computer. My laptop is my next best friend.
I just wanted to comment that I LOVE your site, and you are most definately FABULOUS! Keep up the good work! You inspire me in more ways than you know!
*I read daily, but this is my first comment (hoping to win in the giveaway)!
I don’t think I have protection!?!?!?!
2 kids + 6 of my kids friends + 2 parents (the grandparents who babysit) who click on all neon flashing ads cuz it tells them to + single mother who works too many hours and isn’t available to say ‘don’t click on that’….’stop!’ = unsafe and scary computer situation. right now i’m using the free norton thing, that lasts a month. it’s a brand new computer. my first in the house. my free month is up in days. no clue what to do at that point. would love to win.
This sounds like a great package.
I just use the free sorta protection that is provided by my ISP. Which I guess means I’m not protected at all.
I should be scooping up a new laptop soon and passing this desktop on to the girls so winning a free copy sho’ll would be nice
ooh pick me pick me
could definitely use the new software as my norton flashes a big red warning everytime i log on saying that my current protection has expired…oops!
I’m in! Thanks Single Ma!
You are truly an awesome and brilliant woman. I have been reading your blog for the past 6 months or so and within this time I have become debt free, opened an ING account with your referral, and I’m contemplating my next career move. As a single mom myslef you have truly become an inspiration to me.
Anyhoo, with all that said I would love to recieve a copy of the anti-virus software…
Thanks bunches!!!!
I’ve been a reader for over a year now…and now I’m starting my own blog, so what better timing could there be?!
Cool. I’m not adequately protected. I need to look into it asap!
I would LOVE a free copy! Like you, I do everything on-lilne and would feel better knowing I am fully protected.
Thanks in advance. You are too generous =)
this sound great please enter me in to the running.
Thanks and I heart your blog.
I would like a copy!
Here I am, just trying to win a copy, and saying thanks again for your blog!
I don’t think I’ve ever had any protection on my PC, and after reading your post I see how important it is. I’d love to be considered for the extra copy.
Well after finally coming out of the dark ages and now getting your posts via RSS in my Outlook, I’m feeling motivated to take on the world and my debt. I’ll need a good, safe computer to start, so I need that free security software…pretty pretty please!
Thanks for the great opportunity Single Ma!
I have a 6 year old who likes to run amok on allkinds of kids websites!
Count me in for wanting to win Norton protection for my laptop Single Ma. And have fun shoe shopping.
Hey single ma! I could use the Norton protection- thank you for hosting the rafffle!
Hey! I could so use the Norton protection for a laptop I just purchased. I’m finishing up my degree and would love to win this so I could save money on this and spend it on Office 2008!
~Veronica
i would love to have it. i used to be able to download a group version from school. but now that i’ve graduated, its one of those things i’ve ‘chosen’ to do without since rent and food are a priority! Problem is I do a lot of shopping online!
Thanks for the opportunity!
I’m using:
Symantec Antivirus
Sunbelt Counterspy
TeraByte Image for Windows (for backup)
I love your blog. I can’t believe you are giving this away. I am 63 and raised 3 kiddos by myself. Congrats to whoever wins……
I’m an internet junkie, too!! I live in the sticks of GA, and DSL was just recently made available. We are finally getting it on Tuesday. We’ve been stealing the neighbor’s free wifi for a while, and its not very dependable. That said, I am desperate for some virus software. My Dell Anti-virus stuff ran out 3 years ago with the warranty, and I’ve been unprotected since then. Thankfully, nothing has happened yet. BUt I’ve been stealing internet from the neighbors for 9 months. I am destined to get something being unprotected! Please pick me! I don’t want to get pregnant, er, a virus…
Single Ma - can I be like you when I grow up? =) This is a wonderful blog and a post that is RIGHT ON TIME! I recently launched 2 (yes TWO!) new Internet Businesses, and multiple paypal and and clickbank accounts…everything was looking great and then our computer crashed! Our old security system was out of date, and we just haven’t gotten another one yet…please choose me - it would be a BLESSING!!
i don’t know if you mean midnight where the previous day was saturday or midnight where the previous day was sunday, but if i could get some internet security, that would be great and thanks for having the contest!
Greetings SM and happy mom’s day—
There’s nothing to bring a Baby Blogger into the open than a give away she oh-so badly needs.
Love your blog! Writing style and take-no-shyt attitute make the journey w/you worth it(esp. Operation Credit Repair).
I’m happy your energy is in the blogsphere.
DW Diva