Computer Security: The Need to Keep Yourself Safe

As the two words may imply, computer security involves the security of your computer system. In an ever-growing technological world, more and more potential breaches of security are becoming known, including viruses, Trojans, identity theft and many others. Anyone who uses a computer is at risk for these security breaches by simply turning on their computer and accessing the World Wide Web. It is a scary virtual world out there, and the statistics speak for themselves.

Computer Security –What’s Going On?

  • Between the years of 2005 and 2008 there were more than 215 million people in the US who experienced a computer security issue or breach.
  • Online fraud rates increased 57% between 2007 and 2008
  • Phishing schemes and other online fraud activities costs more than $3.2 billion each year.
  • Social Engineering is the most common form of internet security breaches. This particular type of breach doesn’t involve any type of special software, rather the person gains your trust and then attacks.
  • A Trojan Horse is one of the worse computer security breaches that can be experienced. With a Trojan Horse the attacker takes over your entire PC, giving them complete access to your system and all things in it.
  • A Trojan Horse is considered to be malware. Also included in the group of malware are worms and viruses.

Keeping yourself Protected

Keeping yourself protected from computer security issues is not always easy to do but there are measures that can be taken.

  • Use common sense when on the Internet. Do not go on sites that you do not trust and never divulge any private information.
  • Use a paid anti-virus on your computer, but ensure that you are also using spyware and malware protection, too, both potential dangers of harm.
  • Use Safesearch. Safesearch is activated with many anti-virus programs and will warn you of any unsafe sites before you visit to keep you protected.
  • Use passwords to keep your computer protected, and always turn it off when you are not using it. These two steps help protect anyone else from gaining access to your computer system and all of your files. Do not give the password to anyone.
  • If you receive a suspicious email from your bank, or other agency that has personal information about you, do not respond to that email. It could be a phishing link or someone trying to steal your personal information.

It is getting harder and harder to stay safe on the Internet. Criminals are sharp thinkers, and it seems they are coming up with a new way to invade you and your life on a daily basis. Although there are improvements being made, they are not always foolproof. It is up to you to stay informed of the latest potential computer security threats and do what you can to protect yourself from them.