A Security Primer for the Average Joe

Let's face it: We're all probably going to fall victim to identity thieves eventually (if you haven't already). At least security pros know the signs, and how to protecting themselves. But what about your next-door neighbor, whose credit-card number is already circulating in the black market while his bot-infected PC spews spam?

Security Mike wants to help your neighbor -- and the kids, too.

That would be Mike Rothman, principal of Security Incite, and famed blogger (and ranter), who has just published a new book called Security Mike’s Guide to Internet Security ($37) that spells out the real risks -- and tips for protecting yourself against them -- in non-geekspeak.

Oh, yeah: Security Mike also tells them how to safely uninstall Symantec and McAfee antivirus software and replace it with free utilities that he says do a better job of securing client machines.

"It makes me sick to think about how much money the security software companies make -- and their customers are still not protected. Something has to be done. Someone has to tell the truth," he says in the introduction to his new book, which includes an update service for $20 a year.

Security Mike teaches consumers how to secure home networks and devices, set up their apps securely, get free security software, and recover from an attack. "Listen, I don’t have a Chicken Little suit, and I’m not here to tell you about how dangerous the world is. You wouldn’t believe me even if I told you how bad it is," Rothman says.

But wait, there's more: If you purchase the guide from Security Mike before October 15, it's $27. He's also offering a bonus guide on how to talk to your kids about Internet safety.

— Kelly Jackson Higgins, Senior Editor, Dark Reading