Every PC user should be aware of the security risks on the Internet.
There are some simple and basic steps you should take to protect yourself when online, just like you lock you doors and windows in your home, you need to keep you computer and your information safe.
Windows PC users have the option of using Microsoft's automatic updates software, built in to all modern Windows systems. Go to Start >> Control Panel >> Security Centre (or Windows Update) and make sure your computer is set to Automatic Updates. These updates are to repair security vulnerabilities which people may exploit. Use them!
Use and keep up to date your anti virus software. Viruses come in all disguises, some attempt to steal information like your banking details, others are just malicious and can destroy your data. Have a system which automatically updates itself on a daily basis, as it's reckoned that around 15 new viruses are discovered daily. I use security systems from McAfee, AVG and Kaspersky - all seem to work fine, and AVG can be used without cost.
This is a little less serious, but worth protecting against. No-one likes the idea that their personal information is being gathered and used against their consent. Most anti-virus software offer this as an extra.
Usually called Spam, this is such an annoyance. I can't describe here what I'd like to do to the spammers of this world! Use an anti-spam filter, I use the one provided in Microsoft Outlook which seems to work well enough.