If you've noticed your computer running slower than usual lately, it could be a virus or someone trying to steal your personal information. There are, however, some simple ways to protect yourself.

Most people know the basics when it comes to protecting yourself online, like using an anti-virus program or other types of software. But those simple steps may not be enough.

"I make sure I do my adware scans, my virus scans and make sure my firewalls are working properly," says computer user Carol Connell. "I don't go to any sites that are questionable."

Connell works for business from her home office. She says it is extremely important to make sure her system stays in the best shape possible.

She says she uses two firewalls because she has valuable customer information on her machine.

"I've got one that protects going into the front door and one that will protect going out the back, just because of the companies I work with," she says.

As Connell shops for a new computer, she says she has to keep in mind she needs a system with the best protection available because she's afraid all that information may fall into the wrong hands.

"There's definitley a lot out on the market right now. Probably the worst ones are the ones that will actually go onto your computer and try to steal your credit card information," said Jason King, manager of Computers Plus in Bowling Green.

King says it is important to be as protected as possible, but another good tip he offers is to think before you click.

"Have common sense on a lot of things you click on," he says. "If its a free giveaway for a year on a boat somewhere nice it's probably not legitamit. Free X-Boxes, things like that are not things you usually want to get involved with."

King says it doesn't take long for your PC to start having problems once infected.

"It can be instant. As soon as you click on something, you might start getting 5, 6, 7 popups, so you want to be careful. As soon as you notice problems it's a good idea to bring it somehwere if you don't have the knowledge or capability of fixing that," King said.

USA Today's website lists free anti-virus software programs for download. Visit http://www.usatoday.com:80/tech/products/2010-08-18-securitytools18_ST_N.htm?csp=Tech for more information.