Do you practice good computer security tactics? Everyone should but as sweepstakers we need to be extra diligent. In this week's article I share some tips and freeware to use to keep your computer and personal info safe.

Thank you Trish, Great Article

Trish, This is a great article.

All of your suggestions could easily apply to someone who does banking and investing online.

I am sure for sweepstakers there are people out there just looking to latch onto information as they enter sweepstakes. Your article will help us all continue enjoying sweepstakes while being safer.

Great info. Is there a way to find out if a sweepstakes is safe or a scam? That is what always prevents me from entering - that and the fact that I've never won...LOL...

Hi Dianne, don't give up some time i can go months with out winning a thing
If you didn't enter you didn't win
I've had so many friends say to me " Rosie i just won a thousand dollar gift card" And i said did you enter for it
They answer
"NO"
Well sure enough they didn't win a thing
Also never send money to enter a sweepstakes
Maybe Trish will be able to add to this, there are many things to be cautious about entering
Happy Winnings to everyone

Dianne,

To be honest, it's a gamble (forgive the pun). You might want to stick to sites you know of if you're nervous, i.e. your favorite magazines, blogs, etc. Each one should have an official rules page that is very specific about what the prizes are, drawing times and alternative entry options. There may also be a statement about whether the company sells your info to mailing lists. This is a concern for a lot of people so you just have to decide if you want to go ahead and enter if a company does this.

I use a Google Voice number for mail-in entries that ask for a phone number. I don't like giving out my regular number. But Google Voice isn't popular in some circles because of alleged privacy concerns as well. I'll be doing an article on this too.

If any of the info in the official rules statements seems vague or off, I wouldn't trust the contest. Also, like Rosie says, you shouldn't have to pay to enter contests. Hope that info helps a little.

Rosie - thanks for the encouragement!

Trish - I think you're right, can't win unless I try, there will always be the need for some caution!