There is a lot going on in the information security space. 2011 looks to be an interesting year in these regards. Below are some things to be watchful for in 2011, some of them are good and, unfortunately, some aren’t.
First the good news:
- We are getting a lot more serious about our security. For example, new privacy laws are mandating organizations to tighten their security. Look to see more consumer privacy laws passed in the approaching year and more tightening of security systems.
- Authentication requirements are increasing. Corporations are requiring a great deal more authentication to get into secure programs (this also is on the bad news side- There is a wide range of sophisticated applications to help us be more secure and they will continue to get better. Competition right now is strong in the security industry sparking a lot of innovation.
- ISPs are now taking on the responsibility to help us with our security. Take AOL's latest commercials as a good sign that others will follow with the trend.
Now the bad news:
- Securing our networks is costing us. Most providers are globalizing their organizations making them more secure, costing a lot of money. It will get worse before it gets better.
- Authentication requirements are escalating. This is getting claustrophobic. Corporations are requiring a great deal more authentication to get into secure systems (This is also on the good news side) Unfortunately, for the end user, it is one more aspect to be unhappy about, not unlike airport security lines.
- Hackers are becoming more sophisticated. For example, Botnets are becoming more complicated and harder to capture and stop. Do a search on botnets on the Internet. They really are causing a whole lot of problems, but it does not stop there. The number of viruses and malware out there is staggering.
- Spammers keep finding more innovative ways to fill our email boxes. Don't look for this trend to stop anytime soon.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
How To Secure Your Computer
Today, most people are using their computers for everything from communications to online banking and trading to shopping. As we do these things on a typical basis, we open ourselves to potential hackers and attackers. While some may be looking to phish your private information and identity for resale, others simply want to use your computer as a platform from which to infect other unknowing targets.
Below are a few easy, cost-effective actions you can take to make your computer more secure:
#1 Always make backups of important data and store in a safe place detached from your computer.
#2 Update and patch your operating system, web browser and programs frequently. If you have a Windows operating system, start by going to www.windowsupdate.microsoft.com and running the update wizard. This program will help you find the latest patches for your Windows computer. Also go to www.officeupdate.microsoft.com to locate available patches for your Office programs.
#3 Install a firewall. Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can easily access your computer from the Internet.
#4 Review your browser and email settings for optimum security. Active-X and JavaScript are often used by hackers to place malicious programs into your computer.
#5 While cookies are relatively safe in terms of security concerns, they do still monitor your movements on the Internet to build your profile . At a minimum set your security setting for the internet zone to High, and your trusted sites zone to Medium Low.
#6 Install an antivirus program and set for automatic updates to receive the most current versions.
#7 Do not open unknown email attachments.
#8 Do not run programs from unknown origins. Do not send these types of programs to friends and coworkers because they contain funny or amusing stories or jokes. They may contain a Trojan horse waiting to corrupt a computer.
#9 Disable hidden file name extensions. By default, the Windows operating system is set to hide file extensions for known file types. Disable this option so that file extensions display in Windows. Some file extensions will, by default, persist to remain hidden, but you are more likely to see unusual file extensions that do not belong.
#10 Disconnect from the network when not using the computer. A hacker can not assault your computer when you are disconnected from the network.
#11 Consider making a backup using an external hard drive, in case your computer is damaged or compromised by a malicious application. You need to take this step before you experience a hostile breach of your system.
By doing the above, you will certainly avoid most attacks.
Below are a few easy, cost-effective actions you can take to make your computer more secure:
#1 Always make backups of important data and store in a safe place detached from your computer.
#2 Update and patch your operating system, web browser and programs frequently. If you have a Windows operating system, start by going to www.windowsupdate.microsoft.com and running the update wizard. This program will help you find the latest patches for your Windows computer. Also go to www.officeupdate.microsoft.com to locate available patches for your Office programs.
#3 Install a firewall. Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can easily access your computer from the Internet.
#4 Review your browser and email settings for optimum security. Active-X and JavaScript are often used by hackers to place malicious programs into your computer.
#5 While cookies are relatively safe in terms of security concerns, they do still monitor your movements on the Internet to build your profile . At a minimum set your security setting for the internet zone to High, and your trusted sites zone to Medium Low.
#6 Install an antivirus program and set for automatic updates to receive the most current versions.
#7 Do not open unknown email attachments.
#8 Do not run programs from unknown origins. Do not send these types of programs to friends and coworkers because they contain funny or amusing stories or jokes. They may contain a Trojan horse waiting to corrupt a computer.
#9 Disable hidden file name extensions. By default, the Windows operating system is set to hide file extensions for known file types. Disable this option so that file extensions display in Windows. Some file extensions will, by default, persist to remain hidden, but you are more likely to see unusual file extensions that do not belong.
#10 Disconnect from the network when not using the computer. A hacker can not assault your computer when you are disconnected from the network.
#11 Consider making a backup using an external hard drive, in case your computer is damaged or compromised by a malicious application. You need to take this step before you experience a hostile breach of your system.
By doing the above, you will certainly avoid most attacks.
Monday, November 1, 2010
IS MY COMPUTER OPEN TO SPYWARE
Spyware infects more than 90% of all PCs today. These malicious programs are designed to covertly bypass firewalls and anti-virus software without the user's knowledge. Once embedded in a computer, it can wreak havoc on the systems performance while gathering your personal information.
Typically, spyware originates in three ways. The first and most common way is when the user installs it. In this scenario, spyware is embedded, attached, or bundled with a freeware or shareware program without the user's knowledge. Once downloaded, the spyware program goes to work gathering data for the spyware author's personal use or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs. They are notorious for downloads which are spyware programs.
Another way that spyware can gain access to your computer is by tricking you into manipulating the security features designed to prevent any unwanted installations. The Internet Explorer Web browser was designed not to allow websites to start any undesired downloads. For example, a pop-up modeled after a ordinary Windows dialog box, may appear on your screen. The message may ask you if you would like to improve your internet access. It provides yes or no answer buttons, but, no matter which button you push, a download including the spyware program will commence.
Some spyware applications corrupt a system by entering security holes in the Web browser or other program. When the user navigates a webpage controlled by a spyware author, the page contains code designed to attack the browser, and force the installation of the spyware program.
Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks!
Spyware can:
1 Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.
2 Scan files based on your hard drive.
3 Snoop through applications on your desktop.
4 Install other spyware applications into your computer.
5 Read your cookies.
6 Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.
7 Change the default settings on your home page web browser.
8 Mutate into a second propagation of spyware thus making it more complicated to eradicate.
9 Cause your computer to run slower.
10 Deliver annoying pop up posters.
11 Add advertising links to web pages for which the author does not get paid. Instead, compensation to the spyware programmer that changed the affiliates settings.
12 Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected or hidden places within your computer making it complicated to remove.
How can I prevent spyware?
There are a few things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer or laptop system.
Invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software programs such as Lavasofts Ad-Aware or Windows Antispyware. Other options offer the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, data processing, and removal of any found spyware software.
As with most programs, update your anti virus software frequently.
And, when all else fails?
If your computer has been contaminated with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is backing up your data, and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system.
Typically, spyware originates in three ways. The first and most common way is when the user installs it. In this scenario, spyware is embedded, attached, or bundled with a freeware or shareware program without the user's knowledge. Once downloaded, the spyware program goes to work gathering data for the spyware author's personal use or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs. They are notorious for downloads which are spyware programs.
Another way that spyware can gain access to your computer is by tricking you into manipulating the security features designed to prevent any unwanted installations. The Internet Explorer Web browser was designed not to allow websites to start any undesired downloads. For example, a pop-up modeled after a ordinary Windows dialog box, may appear on your screen. The message may ask you if you would like to improve your internet access. It provides yes or no answer buttons, but, no matter which button you push, a download including the spyware program will commence.
Some spyware applications corrupt a system by entering security holes in the Web browser or other program. When the user navigates a webpage controlled by a spyware author, the page contains code designed to attack the browser, and force the installation of the spyware program.
Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks!
Spyware can:
1 Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.
2 Scan files based on your hard drive.
3 Snoop through applications on your desktop.
4 Install other spyware applications into your computer.
5 Read your cookies.
6 Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.
7 Change the default settings on your home page web browser.
8 Mutate into a second propagation of spyware thus making it more complicated to eradicate.
9 Cause your computer to run slower.
10 Deliver annoying pop up posters.
11 Add advertising links to web pages for which the author does not get paid. Instead, compensation to the spyware programmer that changed the affiliates settings.
12 Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected or hidden places within your computer making it complicated to remove.
How can I prevent spyware?
There are a few things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer or laptop system.
Invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software programs such as Lavasofts Ad-Aware or Windows Antispyware. Other options offer the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, data processing, and removal of any found spyware software.
As with most programs, update your anti virus software frequently.
And, when all else fails?
If your computer has been contaminated with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is backing up your data, and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
HOW TO PREVENT TROJAN HORSE INFECTIONS
Trojan Horse, titled after the famous Greek myth, is used to describe a program that secretly disguises and actually looks like a legitimate program. It is a fake.
Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are all classified as malicious-logic programs which are programs that deliberately harm a computer. Although these are the common three, there are many more variations.It would be almost impossible to list them all.
You know when a computer is infected by a virus, worm, or Trojan horse if one or more of these actions occur:
1 Screen shots of weird messages or pictures appear.
2 You have less available memory then you anticipated
3 Music or sounds plays randomly.
4 Files get corrupted
5 Program files don’t work properly
6 Unknown files or programs randomly appear
7 program properties fluctuate
Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses deliver their payload or details through three common ways.
One: When an individual runs a contaminated program. If you down load a lot of files, you should always scan the files before executing, especially executable files.
Second: When an individual boots a computer with an infected drive. That’s why it’s essential to not leave media files or programs in your computer when you shut it down.
Third: When a person connects an unprotected computer to a network.
Today, a very typical way to receive a computer virus, worm, or Trojan horse, is when you open an contaminated file through an email attachment.
There is no known method to completely protect a computer or computer network from computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, but individuals can take several precautions to significantly reduce chances of being infected by one of those malicious programs.
Whenever you start a computer equipment you should have no removable media in the drives. When the computer starts up, it tries to execute, perform a boot sector on the drives and even if unsuccessful, any given variable on the boot sector can infect the computer’s hard disk.
If you must start the computer for a particular reason, such as the hard disk fails and you are trying to reformat the drive, make sure that the disk is not corrupted.
Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are all classified as malicious-logic programs which are programs that deliberately harm a computer. Although these are the common three, there are many more variations.It would be almost impossible to list them all.
You know when a computer is infected by a virus, worm, or Trojan horse if one or more of these actions occur:
1 Screen shots of weird messages or pictures appear.
2 You have less available memory then you anticipated
3 Music or sounds plays randomly.
4 Files get corrupted
5 Program files don’t work properly
6 Unknown files or programs randomly appear
7 program properties fluctuate
Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses deliver their payload or details through three common ways.
One: When an individual runs a contaminated program. If you down load a lot of files, you should always scan the files before executing, especially executable files.
Second: When an individual boots a computer with an infected drive. That’s why it’s essential to not leave media files or programs in your computer when you shut it down.
Third: When a person connects an unprotected computer to a network.
Today, a very typical way to receive a computer virus, worm, or Trojan horse, is when you open an contaminated file through an email attachment.
There is no known method to completely protect a computer or computer network from computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, but individuals can take several precautions to significantly reduce chances of being infected by one of those malicious programs.
Whenever you start a computer equipment you should have no removable media in the drives. When the computer starts up, it tries to execute, perform a boot sector on the drives and even if unsuccessful, any given variable on the boot sector can infect the computer’s hard disk.
If you must start the computer for a particular reason, such as the hard disk fails and you are trying to reformat the drive, make sure that the disk is not corrupted.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Combating Computer Espionage
Have you noticed a suspicious slow down of your computer's processing without any particular reason?
Are you inundated by pop up ads that indiscriminately show up whether you are running software or not?
These indications may continue to happen despite checking your system and running your recently updated anti virus software to run diagnostics on your computer.
Unless you run the correct spyware and adware software you will not be able to detect the real issue in your computer system.
Adware are uninvited programs that usually come bundled with freeware or shareware. Occasionally things that seem to be to good to be true usually come with unwelcome invisible strings attached. Providers usually pay freeware or shareware designers to be able to take advantage and prey on innocent individuals who download these programs. Adware cause unsolicited pop up advertisements in your computer and in extreme cases, adware causes pop up advertisings to pop up soon as you boot your system.
Spyware on the other hand is more covert and usually undetected in your system until you run an anti spyware program. In relatively mild cases, spyware is used to record your Internet browsing habits so the spyware can report your preferences to build a marketing profile. This means that as you go about your Internet business, you are under surveillance and your basic right to privacy is impinged upon.
In extreme cases though, certain spyware better labeled as malware, are used for criminal purposes and can steal keywords and other sensitive information based on your system and Internet usage.
It is said that 9 out 10 computers are infected with spyware. To make sure that you are not part of statistical majority, you need run an adware and spyware cleaner to detect unwanted security and privacy breaches inside your system.
There are a lot of reliable adware and spyware products available to remove these undesirable programs in your computer.
However some adware and spyware are well bundled inside their parent applications, clearing them out from your computer could very well inadvertently disable the legitimate programs they infect.
This impact is a necessary evil to clean your computer system of unwanted adware and spyware.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Adware Removal: How is it done?
Is the term Adware new to you?
For the scientifically proficient people, this term may not be entirely new to them. But for those who are fascinated by the term, it is now high time that you brace yourself with the meaning behind its name. Adware stands for advertising-supported program. Adware is in truth any type of software bundle that displays, plays, or downloads automatically all sorts of advertising materials into the computer either after the installation of such software or during the time the application is being run or utilized.
Based on its application procedures, the adware is some kind of software that is either bundled together with another program or is integrated into a particular software. Adware is often used by programmers because it is a means of recovering the overall program development costs. Most of the time, adware permits the use of the program with either no charge at all or at a relatively low price. Thus, the use of the adware continuously motivates the programmer to maintain, write, and upgrade such types of computer software products.
Some of the existing adwares are likewise sharewares. How does each of them vary in characteristics and use? Adware is primarily conditioned to be advertising support. The users of the application are also offered choices of whether or not to pay for the licensed or registered copies so as to erase all those pop up advertisements.
The existence of adware is held up in controversy, because the adware is a software which is concealed as a type of spyware. The adware tracks, reports, and usually resells the particular information about a user and his activities without his knowing. Adware is also a malware. It is able to disrupt the computer software applications in use, to force the computer users to visit the advertised webpage.
Adware, spyware, and malware are terms which may be mistaken for one another. The shortest explanation to this confusion, is when the user gets to install adware on one particular computer and then is geared towards activating it for a tracking tool; the adware then becomes a spyware. Meaning, when another user utilizes that certain computer, his activities get tracked by the adware without him knowing it.
Adware removal is done by employing certain programs that will detect them, quarantine, and totally remove the adware and spyware. Adware sotware programs are devised to detect the spyware present in the system and stop them from producing viruses that will harm the computer system.
Aside from using adware removal software, there are several modes to prevent intrusions on your system.
One: Activate the general security especially when you are browsing the Internet
Two: Keep Windows Updated, make use of an alternative browser.
Three: Install the ad-blocking program.
You can always protect your computer only if you know how.
For the scientifically proficient people, this term may not be entirely new to them. But for those who are fascinated by the term, it is now high time that you brace yourself with the meaning behind its name. Adware stands for advertising-supported program. Adware is in truth any type of software bundle that displays, plays, or downloads automatically all sorts of advertising materials into the computer either after the installation of such software or during the time the application is being run or utilized.
Based on its application procedures, the adware is some kind of software that is either bundled together with another program or is integrated into a particular software. Adware is often used by programmers because it is a means of recovering the overall program development costs. Most of the time, adware permits the use of the program with either no charge at all or at a relatively low price. Thus, the use of the adware continuously motivates the programmer to maintain, write, and upgrade such types of computer software products.
Some of the existing adwares are likewise sharewares. How does each of them vary in characteristics and use? Adware is primarily conditioned to be advertising support. The users of the application are also offered choices of whether or not to pay for the licensed or registered copies so as to erase all those pop up advertisements.
The existence of adware is held up in controversy, because the adware is a software which is concealed as a type of spyware. The adware tracks, reports, and usually resells the particular information about a user and his activities without his knowing. Adware is also a malware. It is able to disrupt the computer software applications in use, to force the computer users to visit the advertised webpage.
Adware, spyware, and malware are terms which may be mistaken for one another. The shortest explanation to this confusion, is when the user gets to install adware on one particular computer and then is geared towards activating it for a tracking tool; the adware then becomes a spyware. Meaning, when another user utilizes that certain computer, his activities get tracked by the adware without him knowing it.
Adware removal is done by employing certain programs that will detect them, quarantine, and totally remove the adware and spyware. Adware sotware programs are devised to detect the spyware present in the system and stop them from producing viruses that will harm the computer system.
Aside from using adware removal software, there are several modes to prevent intrusions on your system.
One: Activate the general security especially when you are browsing the Internet
Two: Keep Windows Updated, make use of an alternative browser.
Three: Install the ad-blocking program.
You can always protect your computer only if you know how.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
How To Remove Spyware
25 year computer repair man picks anti spyware software to repair spyware infested computers.
I’m Bernard Paquette, I know what your thinking. Right now you want to be able to clean viruses from your computer and to speed up your computer. What do you find?
A whole lot of programs, including fake anti spyware software, which slows down your computer more, and messes up your browser --- more disappointment. I know it’s tough.
That’s why I came up with a solution.
I’ve repaired all types of computers for over 25 years, eradicating spyware and replacing defective components.
Do you know there were more than 25 million strains of malware created in 2009 alone, according to researchers.
Over 50% were Trojan horses, traveling through your computer, causing havoc to your files and directories etc.
The next most popular type was scare ware (fake anti spyware software) leading web users to voluntarily purchase and download hoax security software, which has no useful purpose.
The scare ware is a 'pop up' saying your computer is at risk for spyware.
They recommend that you download their scanner. By doing so you download a nasty virus.
Spyware is also a threat to the computer users.
It is act of theft of personal information that violates the privacy of internet users. It is important for the internet users to have knowledge about this spyware to be able to avoid it.
When you download an anti spyware program make sure that it’s really a spyware removal tool because some sites prompt you to install spyware removal tool but in fact, it is also a spyware.
One of the ways to keep your computer clean, is to have a good anti virus software program installed and up to date
Security vendors predict the amount of malware in circulation will continue to grow this year. It also is reported that 92% of all email messages sent in 2009 were spam.
There are many good anti spyware software programs available.
As I checkout these anti spyware software programs, I will list them and give you an honest unbiased opinion of each of them.
I’m Bernard Paquette, I know what your thinking. Right now you want to be able to clean viruses from your computer and to speed up your computer. What do you find?
A whole lot of programs, including fake anti spyware software, which slows down your computer more, and messes up your browser --- more disappointment. I know it’s tough.
That’s why I came up with a solution.
I’ve repaired all types of computers for over 25 years, eradicating spyware and replacing defective components.
Do you know there were more than 25 million strains of malware created in 2009 alone, according to researchers.
Over 50% were Trojan horses, traveling through your computer, causing havoc to your files and directories etc.
The next most popular type was scare ware (fake anti spyware software) leading web users to voluntarily purchase and download hoax security software, which has no useful purpose.
The scare ware is a 'pop up' saying your computer is at risk for spyware.
They recommend that you download their scanner. By doing so you download a nasty virus.
Spyware is also a threat to the computer users.
It is act of theft of personal information that violates the privacy of internet users. It is important for the internet users to have knowledge about this spyware to be able to avoid it.
When you download an anti spyware program make sure that it’s really a spyware removal tool because some sites prompt you to install spyware removal tool but in fact, it is also a spyware.
One of the ways to keep your computer clean, is to have a good anti virus software program installed and up to date
Security vendors predict the amount of malware in circulation will continue to grow this year. It also is reported that 92% of all email messages sent in 2009 were spam.
There are many good anti spyware software programs available.
As I checkout these anti spyware software programs, I will list them and give you an honest unbiased opinion of each of them.
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