Security for Internet Surfers - It is a Security JUNGLE out there! Part 1 of 4

(I wrote these series about a year ago for a magazine)

The widespread use of the Internet, along with mobile and wireless technologies (PDAs, Laptops), make access to corporate data and information transportation easy and affordable.

This fact also introduces many risks that never existed before. Easily identifiable risks are:
- Identity theft
- Data and information theft
- Malicious attacks against your PC, network or website
- Viruses, spam, Trojans and spyware
- Hacking and phishing attempts
- Denial of-service (DoS) attacks, and even
- Organized crime.

All the risks noted above, as well as the potential for careless mistakes and user errors, may result in serious financial and reputational damages to your company. Somehow these risks are closer to your business than ever before!

“It’s a Jungle Out There…” is a series of easy to follow technical articles that will provide you with security best practices in a way that are simple to follow.

Deciding to follow even just a few of these simple steps will better protect your systems and bring you way ahead of the pack.

PART 1
HOME USER SECURITY

Security Risks
There are many risks home users are exposed to:
- Home users are somehow unaware of the dangers using the Internet
- They install unreliable or malicious software on their computers (knowingly or unknowingly)
- The Software and Operating systems, be it Windows or Mac, are usually out-of-date
- Internet users are exposed to pornography and undesirable media and information
- They allow uncontrolled use of computers by children, friends, etc.
- Use of home computers for business activities, exposing corporate data to these hazards

#. Description of Task(s)
- What does this mean? Steps to take
1.
Keep your Operating System protection up to date. Don’t be fooled! Older versions are still vulnerable! So are Apple MACs.
- Enable the automatic download and installation of patches from Microsoft.
- Monitor other OSs for patches through their websites
2.
Install Virus, Spyware, Spam and Trojan protection software Antivirus alone will no longer protect your from the risks out on the Internet.
- Purchase a total solution and configure it to update daily
3.
Avoid opening email attachments from unknown sources (sometimes even from known sources!)
- ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ and will do so to your computer.
- The latest version of Outlook automatically protects you from harmful attachments.
- Most viruses propagate through email. Be Careful!
4.
Install personal firewall software or a router/firewall, if you have more than one computer connecting to the Internet
- Most broadband firewall/routers are ready to use out of the box.
- They are configured for basic protection. Enhance security by tweaking the settings.
5.
Backup your data and store the media in a secure place
- Use a floppy, a CD, a DVD, a ZIP drive, a tape drive, something!
- Software is easy to use and this task can be automated.
6.
Protect your data, passwords, credit cards and pins.
- Avoid storing them on Laptops, PDAs, USB drives and other portable media which can be lost easily
- Identity theft is the number one reported crime. It is a very frightening experience and difficult to repair.
- Use your personal data only on reputable websites but always be aware of “phishing” attacks (consumer fraud)
7.
Use hard to guess passwords and change them frequently
- Don’t use the same password for all your information!
- Minimize the risk by having 2 or 3 passwords.
- Keep the important ones close to your heart.
8.
Do not use illegal software or peer to peer sharing programs
- Files downloaded to your computer through these sources can be programmed to open holes and take over your system. Unfortunately, you will not know this happened until it’s too late…
9.
Check immediately any strange computer behavior
- ‘Strange behavior’ is usually a clear indication of security problems with your computer.
- Don’t wait for your yearly support call. Call an expert immediately.
10.
Hire a certified technician at least once a year to check, clean and speed up your computer again
- Computers are complex. Leave it up to a specialist (not your nephew!) to maximize your computer’s performance and guarantee your privacy protection.

SUMMARY
Security breaches can result in legal consequences and potential losses, including identity theft, fraud and physical theft.

Implementing just the minimum recommendations will have you well protected to live a healthy “online” life. And, if you are serious about security, a certified security expert will buy you PIECE OF MIND!

Happy surfing!

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