A new breed of software can record a computer user's keystrokes, including bank passwords and credit card numbers, and send the data to thieves over the Internet. Some programs are nearly undetectable. Here are tips for safer computing:

•  Keep your operating system up to date. On PCs, use the automatic-update feature in Microsoft Windows.

•  Install an Internet firewall.

•  Use and update your anti-virus software.

•  Install a program that scans your computer for spyware and run it weekly. Spyware scanners include Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-Aware by Lavasoft, Spy Sweeper by Webroot Software and PestPatrol by Computer Associates.

•  Never click on Web links embedded in an e-mail; instead, type the address into your browser.

•  Change your passwords regularly.

•  If possible, keep sensitive information off computers connected to the Internet.

•  If your PC has been compromised, volunteers at websites such as http://www.malwarebytes.org can help repair your machine. Consider switching credit cards and bank account numbers and ordering a credit freeze from the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.