Keep Windows up to date.  Keep your security system up to date.  Anti-Virus alone doesn't cut it.  Get a "security suite" with a firewall.  Use intricate passwords.  Most of all...after any business transaction on-line, be sure to log off properly & then close all open windows & then clear all Internet history, cookies, etc.

Awesome thanks for the input.

I have a Scottish Terrier and no matter how soundly asleep she might be at any time of the day or night, the slightest noise wakes her up - even in the winter when we have the windows covered in plastic to help keep the house warm. I can't stress enough the importance of a dog. It doesn't have to be one of the large breeds that people generally keep as watch dogs - just one that will alert you to any sound. You may be awakened sometimes just because a chipmunk ran across your back yard but ten times in the last six years there was real danger and we were able to call 911 and prevent anything.

We also have a small security alarm system and double locks on windows - single locks on the doors.

We live in a rural area and those measures are fine for us.

My daughter lives in an urban area and she pays very high rent. However nobody gets into the building without a key and there is a peep hole in her door - not one of those buildings where if you keep pushing apartment buttons somebody from another apartment might eventually let you in if you have the right excuse.

So for each of us, there are different but effective ways to be secure. A lot depends on the area where you live. Do not try to save money by cutting back in this area - it's a priority.