Tips on Staying Safe in the Internet

In the past, the main computer security threats were due to viruses and worms that were designed to spread as much as possible and cause extensive damage to files and personal computers. These programs were intended to spread with a high infection rate leading to their fame. However, in the twenty-first century, as the World Wide Web has increasingly become part of our lives, the situation has changed drastically. Thus, the myriad dangers and risks associated with the use of the internet calls for increased vigilance. However, it is sad to note that many computer users are not experts in these matters. They ignorantly use computers for work and entertainment while oblivious of the fact that the threats can have a significant negative impact to their computer system and even their lives. The following discussion gives an overview of the computer threats and outlines some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Crimeware

Currently, crimeware poses the biggest threat to computer users. Taking the form of viruses, worms, Trojans or other malicious program, this malicious program is often designed by cybercriminals with the intention of illicitly making money. Cybercriminals often covertly install them on computers and use them to access the victim's confidential information and use it to his or her disadvantage.

2. Hacking

Just as robbers break into homes, hackers break into computers through exploiting their security vulnerabilities. Through clever means, hackers usually gain access into other people's computers in order to install malicious programs, steal confidential information, or launch their programs automatically on the victims' computers.

3. Phishing

Whereas there may be no fish or rod in view, cybercriminals usually have a 'catch of the day' through tricking internet and e-mail users into giving them their confidential information such as username, password, PIN e.t.c. The cybercriminals often create a fake website that almost exactly resembles their chosen website and then use various techniques to convince internet users to disclose their important personal details.

4. Spam

Spam is another chief annoyance of the internet age that is often used for phishing and spreading malicious code. It refers to anonymous, unsolicited bulk e-mail that is normally sent by people who want to benefit from a small number of receivers who actually show interest in the messages. Notwithstanding the constant efforts that have been done to contain this practice, spammer techniques have always evolved. Thus, this calls for increased vigilance among the internet users to curb this practice.

Tips on staying safe in the internet

- Ensure that your computer is protected through installing an internet security software from a reputable company. In addition, the security software should be update on a regular basis and kept running in the background at all times.

- Stop opening e-mails with attachments, except you know the person who has sent it.

- Install security patches for your computer's operating system and other applications and ensure there are updated on a regular basis.

- Provide a backup for your data regularly so that you can access them back in case of damage or loss.

- Be cautious of any e-mail messages that require your personal details and only provide such information if you are 100% certain of their safety.

- Have at least two different e-mail addresses. Use one for your personal correspondence and the other for general purposes in the internet. And, if spammers discover your personal e-mail, change it as soon as possible.

- Do not respond to spam messages as the more you respond, the more you receive such messages.

- Ensure that you install the latest version of your web browser and download it directly from your trusted provider's registered website.

Ade Makinde
info@randallstowncomputerrepair.com