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The openness of the Internet
has dramatically transformed global communications,
making it possible for people around the world to easily exchange information.
But the very same openness also creates an enormous problem. Anyone can access
the network, yet not everyone has good intentions. Some engage in malicious
mischief by unleashing destructive software programs, while others view hacking
computer networks as sport. Then there are people with criminal goals in mind.
To avoid becoming a victim of misguided pranksters or cybercrime, take the time
to examine the security of your personal data. Here are our recommendations,
along with links to more detailed information
Block Hackers and Viruses
Connecting your PC to the Internet without using a firewall and antivirus
software is like leaving your front door unlocked when you go on vacation--if
you're lucky you'll come home to find that all is well, but it's still risky.
Install a firewall on every computer: Even if you have a
hardware firewall between your PC or network and the Internet, you should still
install a software firewall. Although a hardware firewall can be set to block or
allow all packets passing in and out through port 500, for example, it doesn't
know which application initiated the communication on your system. A software
firewall routinely queries you to confirm whether it should let an application
communicate over a given port , so you can tell it that MyCoolInstantMessenger.exe is allowed to use the
port but NastyTrojanHorse.exe isn't.
Use a bidirectional firewall: The firewall in Windows XP is
better than nothing, but not much better. Free firewalls such as Zone Labs' ZoneAlarm and
Sygate's Personal
Firewall monitor and control both inbound and outbound network traffic,
allowing them to block connections initiated on your PC by the aforementioned
NastyTrojanHorse.exe or any real-life backdoor program.
Don't skip the antivirus: If you're not using antivirus
software right now, stop what you're doing, go get some, and then continue
reading after you've installed it. If you use Windows, not using antivirus
software is simply irresponsible because of the high volume of viruses that
target any version of this OS. Even if you think you know how to avoid viruses,
you may eventually get nailed by one that employs a new and unexpected
technique. If you get infected, chances are you'll infect the family members,
friends, colleagues, and others who are in your address book, too.
Protect your passwords: Many online services, such as banking, brokerage and e-mail require the use
of passwords. A secure password is the first line of defense against
cybersnoops. Use a different password for each account, don't divulge them to
anyone and change them periodically. Update security patches for your operating system and web browser: You've probably read about security "holes" that turn up periodically. Once
they're discovered, you can download fixes. For Windows users, an easy way to
update your system is by clicking on the Windows
Update
option under the Start menu or by pointing your web browser to this link: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ Back up your data: Make copies of your files in case they become
corrupted, your system fails or your computer is damaged or stolen. Get in the
habit of doing this regularly, at least once a week.
Log offline when you're done for the day: You are most vulnerable when connected to the Net. If there isn't a good
reason to remain online, disconnect from the network.
Follow these tips and you will enhance your personal security and the health
of your PC. |
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