Internet Security

Is your computer connected to the Internet?

                       If so, your computer is vulnerable to attack

If your computer is connected to the Internet, it is vulnerable to being compromised or attacked by someone outside of your own system.  Software for corrections, defenses, or patches is available, but only if it is installed.    Otherwise your system remains vulnerable and attacks will be successfully carried out by "intruders".

Today, as you well know, email viruses can spread in a matter of hours, if not minutes.  They can completely disrupt your email service, attack your computer and even render it basically useless by taking over your system.  Email attachments are particularly vulnerable to attack.

Information thieves are constantly looking for credit card numbers, bank account information and anything else that will allow them to use your money to buy things for themselves.  This is one of the forms of identity theft.

“Intruders” to your computer may want to use your Internet connection or your hard drive space (your C-drive).  They may be using your computer (only now it looks like you are using it) as one of many they have gained access to.  By using several computers, it is harder for anyone to figure out where problems are coming from or who is responsible.

Broadband or Dial-up Connection

More security risks are associated with “always on” Internet connectivity, or broadband access services (cable modems and DSL) because of the availability of the connection (being open) to “intruders”.  However, the risk also applies to traditional dial-up connectivity to the Internet thru telephone lines, but the connection is only opened while you are dialed in.  When you “hang up” or disconnect, the connection is broken, and therefore closed to any “intruders”.

Security concepts to be aware of when downloading any information to your computer are:

•  Know your source.  Is the person or website one you know and trust?

• Know who uses your computer.  Who else besides yourself has access to your computer?

Internet security for your computer involves preventing and detecting unauthorized use or access of your computer.  If someone else gains control of your computer, it gives them the ability to look like you while they attack other computers.  The location of the attack being generated from their use is coming from your computer’s Internet IP address or location.  It looks like you.

What measures can you take to prevent unauthorized use of your computer?

1. Install a fire wall.  This will check all incoming and outgoing Internet traffic and anything from other people’s computers.

2. Install anti-virus software.  Be sure and install the updates to keep your anti-virus software current.  New viruses are being created all the time.  Remember anti-virus software protects against viruses; it does not protect against spyware.  And be sure to run it on a regular basis.

3. Install spyware removal software.  Be sure to keep it updated to be current.  And the same thing here - spyware removal programs protect against spyware and are not effective against viruses.  Also be sure to run it on a regular basis.

4. Install your software updates.  Usually when the software loaded on your computer needs an update, you are notified when you sign on that there are updates to download and install.

5. Backup your important information.  These are your data files and folders; it is information that would be difficult for you to re-create.  They can be copied to a floppy disk or a CD for storage.  You generally don’t have to backup the software that came with your computer as long as it is on the installation CDs that came with your computer.

6. Be careful when opening attachments to your email and downloading files from the Internet.  Know who sent or created it, and that it is a trusted source are vital.  You can also run a virus check against it to be sure.

7. Make sure your passwords are unique.  The best passwords use a combination of alphabetic and numeric characters and even special characters if allowed.  But even the most complicated passwords can be compromised.  It is best to not share them with others or write them down.  That’s not always possible so use your best judgment on this matter.

8. Know who you have selected to repair or install software on your computer.  Remember your computer technician has access to all the information on your computer.  So be sure they are reliable and trusted sources.

You don’t have to be a “big-time” computer user or be logged on for hours at a time for your computer to be vulnerable to attack.  Even if you only use your Internet connection to play games or to send email, your computer can still be a target.

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