Thwart the Three Biggest Internet Threats of 2007
The same Internet connection that lets you reach out and touch millions of Web servers, e-mail addresses, and other digital entities across the globe also endangers your PC and the information it contains about you. Here’s how to stymie the three gravest Internet risks.
Threat1: IE
Internet Explorer heads the list of top Internet security attack targets in the most recent joint report of the FBI and security organization SANS Institute.
One reason: As the most widely used browser, IE provides the biggest payoff for malicious hackers who set out to exploit its flaws. The biggest problem with IE is its reliance on Microsoft ActiveX technology, which allows Web sites to run executable programs on your PC via your browser.
Security patches and upgrades, including Windows XP Service Pack 2 and the recently released IE 7, make ActiveX safer, but the inevitable flaws that allow malware to circumvent those security measures–combined with the reality that we computer users are often a credulous lot–make ActiveX a risk not worth taking.
Happily, with very few exceptions (such as Microsoft Windows Update site), you can browse the Internet effectively without ActiveX.
To disable ActiveX in IE 6 and 7, choose Tools, Internet Options, Security, Custom Level, scroll to ‘Run ActiveX controls and plug-ins, and select Disable.
Click OK, Yes, and OK to close the dialog boxes. To enable ActiveX on a known and trusted site, click Tools, Internet Options, Security, choose Trusted Sites, click Sites, enter the site address in the text box, and click Add. Uncheck Require server verification (https:) for all sites in this zone, and click Close and OK.
If you leave ActiveX enabled, you may quickly encounter malware-harboring sites and e-mail attachments that ask you to let them install their ActiveX controls on your system. Unless you are 100 percent certain that the control is safe and legitimate, do not allow it.
Regardless of which browser is set as the default on your system, always keep Windows (and IE) updated to minimize your risk.
To keep Windows XP up-to-date, visit update.microsoft.com (you will have to use Internet Explorer) and install Service Pack 2, if you have not already. Next, choose Start, Control Panel, System, and click the Automatic Updates tab.
Select Automatic (recommended) If you trust Microsoft implicitly, Download updates for me, but let me choose when to install them if you trust the company a little bit, or Notify me but do not automatically download or install them to play it safest. (Click “Do not Let a Windows Update Bring You Down” for more on Windows updates.)
Whichever option you choose, click OK to download and install the most recent security patches.
If you stick with IE, upgrade to version 7, which improves ActiveX security. Still, the best way to reduce your PC vulnerability to ActiveX exploits is to download and install another browser, and set it as your default browser.
Mozilla Firefox is the most popular IE alternative. Unfortunately, Firefox growing popularity has enticed malware authors to exploit its own flaws. While no software is perfectly secure, many experts think the Opera browser is safer than either IE or Firefox.
Threat 2: Phishing and Identity Theft
You have probably seen your share of phishing attacks, which look like communications from your bank, PayPal, eBay, or another online account. The message may ask you to click a link that leads to a bogus Web page, complete with realistic user-name and password log-in fields, or it might ask for a credit-card number.
The fake address often resembles the real institution URL–’citibank.fakesite.com’ in place of ‘citibank.com’, for example. The phishers site and e-mail message may even load images from your bank, or have links to the institution own Web site.
When you take the bait, the phisher harvests your data, and either sells it to someone else, or uses it to drain your account right away. A variant called spear phishing identifies you by name in the lure message or Web site, making the sham even harder to spot.
You may have read that your bank will never send you an e-mail asking you to log in to your account, and it should not, though it does happen on occasion. The vast majority of messages that appear to come from financial institutions are phishing attacks, so assume that such messages are bogus and avoid opening them at all, let alone clicking any links they contain.
If you are concerned that the bank or other service is really trying to notify you of a problem with your account, open your browser manually and log in to the site directly, or better yet, pick up the phone and call a customer service agent (if you can find one via the bank automated phone system).
The place you are most likely to notice that your credit card or bank account has been compromised by a phishing attack or identity theft is on the statement you receive from them via mail. Check it carefully for unauthorized charges, and report any to the institution immediately.
IE 7 asks you a couple of times if you had like to enable its phishing filter during installation; say yes. To enable this feature, choose Tools, Phishing Filter, Turn On Automatic Website Checking, and click OK.
Firefox 2 phishing filter is enabled by default, but it uses a static downloaded list of known phishing sites. Many firewalls and other security programs include identity-protection features that scan the stream of data leaving your PC for sensitive information, such as passwords or social security and credit card numbers, and then block the unauthorized transfers.
Resist the temptation to post personal information on your Web page, blog, or social site (Facebook/MySpace) account. Identity thieves, spammers, and online predators are always on the lookout for such data. Browse to “Safeguard Your Reputation While Socially Networking” for an explanation of the risks to both adults and children, and for tips on what you can do to avoid the dangers.
Threat 3: Malware
Every day, virus, spyware, and adware creators come up with new, ingenious ways to gain access to your PC.
These steps will help keep you safe:
Think before you click.Use a spam filter. Update your antivirus software.Download with discretion.Use a bidirectional firewall.Use antispyware.Cher K Markov articles on various subjects and has a treasure chest of information and resources onSoftware Downloadsat http://online-downloads.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/52135.html
|
|
Brescia Complete Modern Natural Wood Bedroom Set (Queen $3,899.00 |
|
|
Complete Sculptured SOLID 4 piece Pine Bedroom Set by Franklin Shockey Co. $3,800.00 |
|
|
Complete Bedroom suite $3,000.00 |
|
|
Pulaski Tangerine 335 5 Piece Bedroom Set with Complete Walnut Queen Bed, Walnut $2,947.03 |
|
|
Bedroom sets Complete 1950 Style to Paolo Buffa $2,800.00 |
|
|
Complete 4 piece Dark Oak King Sleigh Bedroom suite $2,412.70 |
|
|
Pulaski Tangerine 335 4 Piece Bedroom Set with Complete Walnut Queen Bed, Walnut $2,471.84 |
|
|
Dark Oak Queen Sleigh Bedroom Complete Suite 4 pieces $2,373.00 |
|
|
Pulaski Bearrific 5 Piece Youth Bedroom Set with Complete Twind Bed, Dresser & $2,344.79 |
|
|
Brown King Size Complete Bedroom Set Wood Storage Bed $2,271.13 |
|
|
New Chest Bed Set Complete California King Size Bedroom $2,092.61 |
|
|
New Queen Size Chest Bed Set Complete Bedroom Furniture $1,880.85 |
|
|
King Size Complete Bedroom Set Dark Brown Platform Bed $1,654.96 |
|
|
Queen Size Complete Bedroom Set Dark Brown Platform Bed $1,570.26 |
|
|
Complete Real Wood Bedroom Set $1,500.00 |
|
|
Cal King Sleigh Complete Wooden Bedroom Furniture Set $1,344.38 |
|
|
New Sleigh Bedroom Set Complete King Size Furniture Bed $1,344.38 |
|
|
Platform Bed Set Complete King Size Bedroom Furniture $1,330.26 |
|
|
Queen Pine Log Bedroom Set Complete with a 6-Drawer Dresser & (2) Nightstands $1,299.00 |
|
|
Welton Windstar 3 Piece Queen Bedroom Set with Complete Bed in Espresso $1,019.00 |
|
|
WALKERS CAY COMPLETE QUEEN SLEIGH PLATFORM BED $999.00 |
|
|
Welton Windchase 3 Piece Queen Bedroom Set with Complete Bed in Espresso $989.00 |
|
|
4 PC QUEEN WALNUT BEDROOM SET – DRESSER, MIRROR, NIGHT STAND, COMPLETE BED $799.00 |
|
|
Stanley Bedroom Suite Beautiful Complete Set Beautiful $900.00 |
|
|
NEW South Shore Furniture Beds Logik Collection, Complete Bed Loft Bedroom Set $899.99 |
|
|
White Queen Bed Headboard, Night Stand & Chest COMPLETE BEDROOM SET – Ships Free $899.95 |
|
|
Willett Mid Century Modern 6 piece Complete Bedroom Set $889.00 |
|
|
Louis Philippe Full Size Complete Bedroom Furniture Set $878.49 |
|
|
New Queen Size Lois Philippe Complete Wood Bedroom Set $878.49 |
|
|
Twin Louis Phillippe Cherry Wood Complete Bedroom Set $864.38 |
|
|
Loft Bed Complete Bedroom Set $859.99 |
|
|
Deep Pewter Finish Complete Iron Scrolled King Sz Bed Headboard Footboard Rails $599.00 |
|
|
Deep Pewter Finish Complete Heavy Iron Sleigh CALI King Bed Head/Footboard Rails $599.00 |
|
|
Deep Bronze Finish Complete Iron “Braided” King Sz Bed $599.00 |
|
|
Complete Bedroom Set Made in Italy, King or Queen Headboard Palatine Illinois $725.00 |
|
|
Complete Kid’s Bedroom Set – Lane Furniture $700.00 |
|
|
Rustic Cedar Log Full Bed Bedroom 2 Piece Complete Set $554.00 |
|
|
Deep Pewter Finish Complete Heavy Iron Sleigh CALI King HEADBOARD ONLY $399.00 |
|
|
Stunning Deep Bronze Finish Complete Iron “Braided” King Size HEADBOARD ONLY NIB $399.00 |
|
|
Pottery Barn Bedding Complete “Organic Leaf Matelasse” Queen Set – 6 Pieces $525.00 |
|
|
Complete Basset bedroom set $500.00 |
|
|
Complete Bedroom Boy’s Girl’s Set FLEXA retail $4000 Kids Child $450.00 |
|
|
Complete Bedroom set, convertible crib, chest, diaper changing table, etc $425.00 |
|
|
Student Special! Complete Bedroom SET – HOUSTON ONLY! $375.00 |
|
|
DANCING BALLERINAS RIBBON BALLET TWIN CUSTOM COMPLETE BEDDING BED ROOM SET $297.44 |
|
|
Complete Antique 2-piece Wood Bedroom Set Century Furniture Co. Local PU only $280.00 |
|
|
Court of Versailles La Dauphine King Complete 9-piece bedding set NEW, Ret:$1425 $279.99 |
|
|
ETHAN ALLEN COUNTRY FRENCH Twin Complete Sleigh Bed, UNISEX $275.00 |
|
|
ETHAN ALLEN COUNTRY FRENCH Twin Complete Sleigh Bed, UNISEX $275.00 |
|
|
POTTERY BARN SIENNA PAISLEY DUVET CAL. KING PORCELAIN BLUE W/4SHAMS COMPLETE SET $259.99 |
|
|
QUEEN/FULL COMPLETE BEDROOM SET-WOOD $250.00 |
|
|
Complete Full 8 piece RWAY vintage bedroom set – Restoration Person’s Dream! $249.99 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $215.78 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $211.78 |
|
|
West Elm New Cherry Blossom Duvet Complete Set King w/ 2 Standard & 2 Euro Shams $209.99 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES (9) PIECES COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES (9) PIECE COMPLETE BEDROOM PACKAGE SET! $191.78 |
|
|
STUNNING KING BEDSPREAD 4 PIECE WITH COMPLETE MATCHING SHEETS! $220.00 |
|
|
Dick & Jane Complete Full Size Bedroom Set Bedspread Curtains Shams Quilt $199.00 |
|
|
Beautiful Childrens bedroom furniture complete set $200.00 |
|
|
Malta King Complete Bed Ensemble King (2196) $189.99 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set $171.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
NBA CHICAGO BULLS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
NBA BOSTON CELTICS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
MLB DETROIT TIGERS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
NBA DALLAS MAVERICKS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
NBA NEW YORK KNICKS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
MLB BOSTON RED SOX – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
NBA ST. LOUIS CARDINALS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $171.78 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set $167.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
NBA CHICAGO BULLS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
NBA BOSTON CELTICS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
MLB DETROIT TIGERS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
NBA DALLAS MAVERICKS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
NBA NEW YORK KNICKS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
MLB BOSTON RED SOX – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
NBA ST. LOUIS CARDINALS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $167.78 |
|
|
Manor Hill Cleo Complete Bed Ensemble – Amethyst (2007) $143.99 |
|
|
MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set $147.78 |
|
|
MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $147.78 |
|
|
MLB TEXAS RANGERS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $147.78 |
|
|
NBA CHICAGO BULLS – SIDELINES Complete (6) PIECE BEDDING BEDROOM BED Set! $147.78 |
