Help protect your Microsoft account

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Help protect your Microsoft account A Microsoft account (formerly known as a Windows Live ID) is a single email address and password used to sign in to any PC running Windows 8, or to Microsoft services like Hotmail, Outlook.com, and Xbox LIVE.  A strong password will help protect your account from cybercriminals. But if it does get hacked, Microsoft will send instructions for recovering your account, using using additional security information that you add to your account profile.  Security updates for March 12, 2013 Download security updates for Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Silverlight, Microsoft .Net Framework, and Internet Explorer. Get updates from Microsoft Update See a summary or watch a video about the updates Microsoft security news   Internet Explorer 10 now available for Windows 7 If you're running Windows 7, you can now get the newest version of Internet Explorer, which was previously available only with Windows 8 and Windows RT. Learn about security and privacy features that come with Internet Explorer 10. Filing taxes? Beware of scams The IRS does not send unsolicited communications requesting personal information from US taxpayers. Get more tips for spotting fraudulent emails and social networking posts about taxes.  Protect your computer Do I have to pay for antivirus software? Learn about free security software and how you can use it to protect your Windows PC or tablet. Also, see how to spot fake security software. Think your PC is infected? Download our free safety scanner The free Microsoft Safety Scanner works with your existing antivirus software to scan your computer and remove viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.  See all our blog posts about malware in one place Worried about viruses and how they got on your computer? Check out the latest news about malicious software that might be slowing down your PC. Protect yourself and your family Being safer when using mobile apps It's important to install apps from a trusted source like Marketplace. Learn more and find out why the Windows Phone 8 operating system receives high marks for security.  Last chance for the Safer Online Teen Challenge Calling all eligible teens! You have only one more month to enter our contest for a chance to win a tablet or an Xbox. Find out more and submit an entry. Check out Safer Online on Twitter Follow us on Twitter to keep up with all the latest privacy and security information for adults, teens, and kids. Security resources Microsoft Safety & Security Center Security Tips & Talk blog Microsoft Consumer Security Support Center About this newsletter Microsoft Security for Home Computer Users is a monthly newsletter bringing security news, guidance, updates, and community resources directly to your inbox. If you would like to receive more technical security information, see the Microsoft Security Newsletter.

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