Computer security
Anti virus
Although installation of anti virus software is an effective way of preventing viruses taking hold of your computer, many viruses do still appear on computers with the right software because it has not been regularly updated. Update your anti-virus software regularly with information about the latest viruses, or purchase software with built in updaters
Anti spy ware
Spy ware is computer software, which collects personal information about the user of a computer without his or her informed consent. It is another potential avenue for unauthorised access into computer systems. There are many ant spy wares developed to protect a computer from spy ware attacks. Most of the anti-spy ware is currently free and includes programs such as AdAware, Microsoft Anti-spy ware, McAfee and Arovax.
Active Components
The computer industry has put in place standards to help decide whether websites, which contain active components, such as Macromedia Flash Player, are trustworthy. The nature of these components allows users of the websites enhanced functionality, i.e. they can be used to watch films and other moving images. However, this enhancement gives these programs elevated privileges, which could be used to access your computer’s files. Therefore the authors of these active components have to sign up to a voluntary code of practice that states that they are “trustworthy” and their components are marked with a digital signature confirming their identity. Should one of these components then be used illegally, the author can be traced.
Secure websites
When entering your credit card details to pay for an internet purchase, or when checking your internet banking online, always make sure that you check that the following are present:
The text HTTPS prefix in the address/title of the web browser. An icon representing security in the bottom right of the Internet Browser – this is usually a small padlock.
Please keep the following points in view while using broadband:
Installation of an effective Antivirus package including Anti-spyware that is regularly updated.
Install and configure a suitable Firewall.
Avoid visiting new and unknown sites and download programs from the Internet. Do not respond to pop-up windows offering you free software.
Ensure that your security settings are set to appropriate minimum standards, by visiting the “Security” tab in your Internet options.
If there is an alert that a web site is not a trusted one, do not proceed onto the site.
Remove or disable unwanted programmes and services that are not used or required.
Other information:
