All About Mobile Viruses

<P> </P><br /><P>Modern technology advances and so are the viruses for smart phones and mobile phones with internet connectivity. Mobile viruses are like human viruses. It can spread by close contact to a specific host. It can also spread in the same way as computer viruses. Mobile viruses can be transferred through infected files or programs.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Some mobile device has Bluetooth. It is a product of modern technology that transfers data. This is done between different devices through photo sending from cell phone to printer and or address transferring from your Windows mobile phone to computers.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Mobile phones evolve. Their purpose was originally to make people talk to each other while moving. Now they are considered as multi-media devices. It can replace items in the future like:</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o game console <BR>o messaging terminals <BR>o credit cards <BR>o digital cameras <BR>o TV and others</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Cell phones that are merely enabled for talking and SMS are not at risk with viruses. Those that are enabled to handle data or have Bluetooth are susceptible to viruses. Bluetooth technology has few risks so it needs to be manipulated properly. Once virus is installed or received, it will start to look for other Bluetooth devices to infect. Within a 30 feet radius, an enabled Bluetooth mobile device can be infected by another.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>How do viruses multiply?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Infected MMS messages will be sent by a virus. It will then proliferate to every listed numbers in your phone memory.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>What harm virus can do to your phone?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o The virus can delete or alter all the contact details and calendar entries in your mobile phone. <BR></P><br /><P>o It can crash, delete or lock up your phone applications. <BR></P><br /><P>o The virus will appear as pornographic item, free download, or mobile games. <BR></P><br /><P>o The virus will appear as text messages disguised as friend message's subject line.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Knowingly or unknowingly, the user installs the virus through transferring. Sometimes the virus disguise as a desirable application. It installs the bug without your knowing. It can cause trouble and cash losses, too.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>How to avoid mobile viruses?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o Do not enable Bluetooth when not needed. <BR></P><br /><P>o Accept only file that you know when your Bluetooth is on. <BR></P><br /><P>o Say "No" for unknown file. <BR></P><br /><P>o Download materials that are not scanned from sharing network must be avoided. <BR></P><br /><P>o Delete the infected application program. <BR></P><br /><P>o Avoid installing unknown applications. <BR></P><br /><P>o Download only from official websites.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Ways to avoid mobile viruses</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>1. Network Security</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There are mobile versions of anti-virus products that can be used. These are from industry leaders. It includes:</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o Norton Smartphone Security for Pocket PC <BR></P><br /><P>o F-Secure Mobile Antivirus and <BR></P><br /><P>o Trend Micro Mobile Security-It can protect Windows mobile, Pocket PC, Symbian and Smart phone users <BR></P><br /><P>o Airscanner Anti-virus-It can protect mobile devices and Pocket PC from Trojans <BR></P><br /><P>o Commander Mobile Anti-virus- protects Symbian smart phones</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>2. Blocking Thieves</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>An important defense to block thieves of data is to enable the password lock. It can be found in the native system setting of PDA.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>3. Privacy and Data Protection</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>To keep your files confidential, password managers and data encryption can help you. Encryption applications are:</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o Ilium Software's eWallet Professional for Windows Mobile <BR></P><br /><P>o Smartphone and <BR></P><br /><P>o Palm with 256-bit RC4 encryption</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>A password for lockbox program will be required each time information is to be accessed. It includes bank account, car details, credit cards, and the like. Well-known viruses are:</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>o Cabir <BR></P><br /><P>o Duts <BR></P><br /><P>o Skull <BR></P><br /><P>o CommWarrior</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Viruses and Malware will remain as long as 3G phones are here. Improvement of the productivity levels of mobile devices will expose them more to virus infections. The solution is to implement security measures inside the device such as data encryption and anti-virus software applications.</P>

All About Mobile Viruses

  Modern technology advances and so are the viruses for smart phones and mobile phones with internet connectivity. Mobile viruses are like h...

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On the Origin and Evolution of Computer Viruses

<P> </P><br /><P>Trends and industry analysts state that the efforts of the propagators will not relent. Last year marked the first ever mobile phone virus and Bluetooth technology, for example, compounds the threats to security. 35% of PCs in the US are infected while in China and India the rates hit 50%.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Experts in the field of security report the first virus was spread as early as 1981. Fred Cohen, however, wrote in his seminal paper that the first virus was conceived as an experiment on November 3rd, 1983. Since then viruses and malware have plagued and wreaked havoc among computer systems worldwide.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>Risks through the Internet </STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>With the advent of such communications advances like the Internet, mobile telephony and Bluetooth (a short range radio technology that simplifies wireless communication among devices such as computers and mobiles. It also aims at quickly and easily connect these devices to the Internet) computer viruses have spread at an alarming rate. The downside to such advances is that where before only a few computers would get infected, now thousands, if not millions, are at the mercy of virus authors.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>Early Threats Disable 10% of Computers Infected </STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>In 1987 a large network (ARPANET) used by universities and the US government was infected by a virus. Robert Morris, son of a computer security expert for the National Security Agency, sent malicious code through ARPANET, affecting about 10% of the connected computer hosts - at the time there were only 60,000 hosts connected to the network. The code reproduced itself and filtered through network computers; consequently, the size of the files filled computers' memories, thus disabling numerous machines.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>An alarming 66% of PCs today are Infected by Spyware and 35% are infected by viruses in the US. Today, an estimated 1.21 billion people (Computer Industry Almanac) are connected to the Internet with millions of computer hosts connected chatting, exchange files, emails and communicating in general. Can you imagine how easy it is to spread a virus or malware?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>One anti-spyware developer, reports that the infection rate of malicious spyware at companies is approximately at 7% and adware appears on an incredible 52% of machines. 3 to 5% of enterprise machines had keyloggers. At homes, the percentages are much higher. The same anti-spyware developer reports that 66% of the PCs scanned by its online tool were found to be infected with an average of 25 spyware entities each. If one were to define cookies as spyware than the rate will shoot up to 88%! Adware was found on 64% of the machines. Viruses and Trojans, reports the company, were found on 7% and 19% of the machines respectively.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>According to Panda Software, over 50% of PCs in India and China, for example are infected with a virus. In the US and the UK, the rate is 35%. All in all, this means that many people still remain without active protection today.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>Anti-virus is not enough </STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>In a study performed by security firm Checkbridge, the company ran 2 million email messages through three famous email scanners. None of the programs tested caught all the viruses. The success rates of the scanners varied from 97% to 64%. The CEO of Checkbridge also states that in many cases using two scanners at the same time does not guarantee pinpointing all the viruses all of the time. Similarly, many computer experts report that using two or three anti-spyware programs usually manages to delete 95%+ of spyware.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>Pillars of Security </STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>How can you protect your system and your data in the midst of so many threats to security coming from so many different sources?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Just think, malware (malicious code) has been around for almost 25 years already. Every year, millions of people and businesses lose substantial sums of money in terms of lost and, many times, irrecoverable data. To top it all, some viruses hog system resources and Internet connections making it impossible to work or play. And this does not include the frustration and anger at not being able to pinpoint the source of the problem.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>One of the very first steps to protecting your PC is to make sure that the operating system (OS) is updated. This is critical as OS manufacturers such as Microsoft Windows update security features of their products continuously to cover any potential and actual loopholes.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Secondly you should have updated anti-virus software running on your system. Make sure to choose one of the better ones on the market today - a few dollars wont break you but a virus will. Make sure that the anti-virus software is updated frequently (sometimes even daily if needs be) with fixes to the actual engine and to the database files that contain the latest cures against new viruses, worms and Trojans. The anti-virus software must have the ability of scanning email and files as they are downloaded from the Internet to help prevent malware reaching your system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Many users are using a third component for their home and/or computer system security – firewall software. A good system prevents unauthorised use and access to your computer from external sources (e.g. hackers or hijackers) plus giving you additional protection against the more common Trojans and worms. A firewall on its own will not get rid of the virus problem but when used in conjunction with your OS updates, anti-virus software and processlibrary.com information, it will give you deeper system security and protection.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>A fourth component for security is manual intervention. This option may be daunting to any beginner, however, such intervention will definitely help you combat insipid Trojans that may not be removed by your standard anti-virus and spyware products.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>I would like to explain two tools that may be used intervene when all else fails – the native Windows Task Manager to help you list all the processes running on your PC and a good online library that explains what these processes are for and whether they are legitimate or not. Of course, you need to use these tools with care. Hit CTRL+ALT+DEL to call up the Windows Task Manager to help you identify most of the processes running on your computer – this is an in-built Windows OS functionality. Go through the processes one by one and then search for the process names in one of the many process libraries available – I use processlibrary.com but there are many others including neuber.com, file.net, and bleepingcomputer.com. In any case, these libraries are directories of information (typically free of charge) with search functionality.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>With this information you can immediately identify any possible new threats that may have infiltrated into your system. The definitions will help you cover that window of time until your preferred anti-virus and anti-spyware software vendors update their scanners. When identified just search the process within the processlibrary.com database and you'll have an exact definition and advice on what to do.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>Fighting Spyware, Adware and Other Forms of Malware</STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>In some cases, it is not that easy to realize that spyware and related forms of malware are installed on your system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>In other cases, you will almost immediately notice changes to your web browser that you didn't make. These changes include toolbars that you didn't want installed, different homepage settings or changes to your security settings and favourites list.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Other signs of spyware include advert pop-ups which are not related to the website being viewed at the time. Many such adverts usually relate to pornography or emoticons or performance/security optimizers and are not displayed as they are usually shown on legitimate adverts. Adverts may also appear when you are not surfing the web. Spyware is not only annoying but it slows your system performance, causes start-up time to increase, hogs your Internet connection and on occasion will lead to system crashes.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>You should install an anti-spyware software package. There are some good ones on the market and many experts go as far as suggesting installing two or three since any single package may not be powerful enough to find all the entries and changes to your registry and other files made by spyware. Such malware is installed like any other application on your system thus leaving traces of itself on the registry files of and other places with your system. Anti-spyware works by looking for these traces and deleting them.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Also beware of what you download from the Internet. Make sure that the sources that you download stuff from are know to you - and even here you have to pay extreme attention. For example, not all companies who claim their software contains adware are really offering adware only! There's always the possibility that there is spyware disguised in the program. Make sure that you read privacy policies and license agreements. Also firewalls should help you greatly in the fight against spyware and malware.</P><br /><P><STRONG></STRONG> </P><br /><P><STRONG>New Forms of Security Threats </STRONG></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Malware authors and hackers are always looking for new ways of disrupting the normal operation of your system and, worse still, stealing your private data. Cross site request forgery (CSRF) is a form of website attack also known as session riding. According to leading security experts (e.g., Jeremiah Grossman) this form of attack is rare yet it is a “sleeping giant”.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Here is an excerpt that explains what CSRF is taken from an excellent CSRF FAQ: “Cross Site Request Forgery (also known as XSRF, CSRF, and Cross Site Reference Forgery) works by exploiting the trust that a site has for the user. Site tasks are usually linked to specific urls (Example: [http://site/stocks?buy=100&stock=ebay]) allowing specific actions to be performed when requested. If a user is logged into the site and an attacker tricks their browser into making a request to one of these task urls, then the task is performed and logged as the logged in user. Typically an attacker will embed malicious HTML or JavaScript code into an email or website to request a specific 'task url' which executes without the users knowledge, either directly or by utilizing a Cross-site Scripting Flaw. Injection via light markup languages such as BBCode is also entirely possible. These sorts of attacks are fairly difficult to detect potentially leaving a user debating with the website/company as to whether or not the stocks bought the day before was initiated by the user after the price plummeted.” <a href="http://www.cgisecurity.com/articles/csrf-faq.shtml" rel="nofollow" target="_new">Click here to read the whole FAQ</A></P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>So What is the Solution? The solution is to try to work hard to minimize threats to security by using the right tools and by demanding that the websites you use on a regular basis take a similar approach.</P>

On the Origin and Evolution of Computer Viruses

  Trends and industry analysts state that the efforts of the propagators will not relent. Last year marked the first ever mobile phone virus...

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Fighting off Viruses: Advancements in Antivirus Software Suites

<P> </P><br /><P>Protecting your computer from a virus is getting harder and harder each day, making it very difficult to fight off viruses attacks. While it may border on the paranoid, it goes without saying that you can't leave your guard down for one second. Even corporate giant Microsoft has found its own systems compromised on more than one occasion.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Remember the "good old days", before the advent of the Internet and downloadable programs? Life was simple then in terms of computer viruses. With the primary way in which a virus could be transmitted being limited to floppy disks, the ability to catch and eradicate the virus was a lot easier. By today's standards, it used to take quite a while before a virus was able to infect a computer and slow down the system. The antivirus software of that time was typically able to identify and eradicate viruses before they caused too much damage. Additionally, computer users were pretty savvy on how to protect themselves in terms of scanning all floppy disks before copying them to our desktop.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The Internet helped change all that. The Internet provided a conduit by which viruses could move from host to host with lightening speed. No longer could a computer user just worry about floppy disks as points of entry, but they now had to worry about email, email attachments, peer-to-peer file sharing, instant messaging, and software downloads. Today's viruses can attack through multiple entry points, spread without human intervention, and take full advantage of vulnerabilities within a system or program. With technology advancing everyday, and the convergence of computers with other mobile devices, the potential of new types of threats also increase.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Protecting Your Computer</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Luckily, the advancement of antivirus software has kept pace with current virus threats. Antivirus software is essential to a computer's ability to fend off viruses and other malicious programs. These products are designed to protect against the ability of a virus to enter a computer through email, web browsers, file servers and desktops. Additionally, these programs offer a centralized control feature that handle deployment, configuration and updating. <BR>A computer user should remain diligent and follow a few simple steps to protect against the threat of a virus:</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>1. Evaluate your current computer security system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>With the threat of a new generation of viruses able to attack in a multitude of ways, the approach of having just one antivirus software version has become outdated. You need to be confident that you have protected all aspects of your computer system from the desktop to the network, and from the gateway to the server. Consider a more comprehensive security system which includes several features including antivirus, firewall, content filtering, and intrusion detection. This type of system will make it more difficult for the virus to penetrate your system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>2. Only install antivirus software created by a well-known, reputable company. <BR>Because new viruses erupt daily, it is important that you regularly update your antivirus software. Become familiar with the software's real-time scan feature and configure it to start automatically each time you boot your computer. This will protect your system by automatically checking your computer each time it is powered up.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>3. Make it a habit to always scan all new programs or files no matter from where they originate.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>4. Exercise caution when opening binary, Word, or Excel documents of unknown sources especially if they were received during an online chat or as an attachment to an email.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>5. Perform regular backups in case your system is corrupted. It may be the only way to recover your data if infected.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Recommended Antivirus Software</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There are numerous applications available to consumers. With a little research, you can pick the program that is right for you. Many programs provide a trial version which allows you to download the program and test its abilities. However, be aware that some anti-virus programs can be difficult to uninstall. As a precaution make sure to set up a System Restore point before installing.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Here are a few programs which typically receive high marks in terms of cost, effectiveness, ease of use, and customer service.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Invisus Internet Security 2006 provides best of breed technologies, using Kerio Firewall, Sophos Anti-virus, CounterSpy as well as BigFix..Virsus scans done every day with live updates <BR>scheduled scan options available, software has been known to discover virus attacks three hours to two days before its competitiors.. Invisus offers unlimited free tech services a needed addition in todays online environment.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The Shield Pro 2005(TM) provides virus protection and hacker security through ongoing support and updates. When a virus breaks out, The Shield Pro 2005(TM) promises to provide a patch within 2-3 hours and a fix for the virus within 5 hours. You can set your computer to update viruses weekly and run a complete virus scan.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>BitDefender 9 Standard provides antivirus protection, as well as Peer-2-Peer Applications protection, full email protection, and heuristics in a virtual environment. This provides a new security layer that keeps the operating system safe from unknown viruses by detecting malicious pieces of code for which signatures have not been released yet.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Kaspersky Anti-Virus Personal 5.0 program is simple to install and use. The user only needs to choose from three levels of protection. It allows updates as frequently as every hour while promising not to disrupt your computer. The program also offers a two-tier email protection feature and round-the-clock technical support.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>PC-cillin Internet Security combines antivirus security and a personal firewall--for comprehensive protection against viruses, worms, Trojans, and hackers. It also detects and removes spyware and blocks spam. It even guards against identity theft by blocking phishing and pharming attacks.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition is a free downloadable antivirus program that has received high marks for its reliability. In the past, free downloadable antivirus programs have been viewed skeptically because of issues relating to its reliability. However, AVG from Grisoft, remains one of the best-known free anti-virus programs available. While AVG can not be installed on a server operating system and there is no technical support, it still makes a good choice for many home computer users. The best part is that since it is free, you can try it with no further obligation necessary.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>However, I do NOT suggest to use free anti-virus software or off the shelf security products, as you will only be getting basic security levels met and most likely outdated by the time you get them on your computer. It is best to purchase the best you can afford as in the long run it will be less expensive if something slips through your system. Also it takes only 8 seconds for a hacker, spyware, adware or any other malicious attack to enter your computer. Computers slowing down, freezing, software not working properly, emails overloaded with spam, computer starting on its own, computer crashing, these are all signs that you have been hit with a virus.</P>

Fighting off Viruses: Advancements in Antivirus Software Suites

  Protecting your computer from a virus is getting harder and harder each day, making it very difficult to fight off viruses attacks. While ...

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Traditional Antivirus Programs Useless Against New Unidentified Viruses!

<P> </P><br /><P>Every now and then you can read about a new virus and the damage it causes. The millions viruses costs companies each time they strike. It is however not only companies that are suffering from the damages caused by viruses. A virus can be just as damaging if not more for a private Internet user by destroying important documents, family pictures and everything else you keep on your computer. Therefore should no home computer be without a good virus protection software. This way you can protect your computer and yourself from losing data, corrupted hard drives and a number of other problems. There are several anti virus programs available of which some are free and some are not. You should however always remember that you might get what you paying for, meaning that the service and the updates might be better for the paid alternatives and thereby protect your computer better.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>When using a virus program you should try to find one that is fast, reliable and able to discover as many viruses as possible. Whether it is fast or not might seem unimportant if you don't use your computer that much, but you will find that an anti virus program that scans your computer faster will be used more frequently and thereby giving you a better protection. If an anti virus program should be effective when protecting your computer it needs to be able to recognise all viruses, and since new viruses are constantly created this means that the database for the program has to be constantly updated. You should therefore consider how often the different anti virus programs update their databases when choosing which antivirus program to get. You should always make sure to keep your virus program up-to-date.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>One of the best anti virus programs on the market today is Panda Active Scan Anti Virus Software Online which has an unrivalled capacity for detecting viruses and other threats online which is the most common path for viruses to reach our computer. Almost all viruses today are spread through the Internet. Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 is easy to install and once it is installed it finds and remove viruses automatically. Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 also automatically updates itself if you want it to. In other words: Panda Anti Virus is an anti virus program that manages itself and makes sure that it is up to date and able to keep your computer safe from viruses. Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 scans your entire computer, including the program itself, to make sure that a virus can't infect any part of the computer. Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 doesn't just search for virus, it also search your computer for a number of other security risks like spy wares and Trojans.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 contains TruPrevent Technologies. TruPrevent Technologies is a system designed to help Panda Anti Virus protect your computer against unknown viruses and intruders. The user can choose whether they want to use TruPrevent Technologies or not. The technology has been implemented to allow Panda Anti Virus to protect your computer against new virus since a new virus can spread world wide within a few hours. The TruPrevent Technologies allows Panda Anti Virus to detect and block viruses even if they are not yet included in the virus database. This allows Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 to keep your computer safe against all viruses and not only the ones that are already identified, since you might encounter a new virus despite the fact that Panda updates their database at least once a day. Old anti virus programs - and most of the modern anti virus programs as well - can only protect you against already identified viruses. The ability to protect against unknown viruses is what Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 a superior choice for an anti virus program.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 does not only offer superior security and very user friendly functionality. It also comes with tech support where experts answer any questions that might arise.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>All personal computers should have virus protection since you otherwise risk losing important document, family pictures etcetera and if you are looking for user friendliness and a superior security Panda Titanium Active Scan Anti Virus 2005 is your best choice.</P>

Traditional Antivirus Programs Useless Against New Unidentified Viruses!

  Every now and then you can read about a new virus and the damage it causes. The millions viruses costs companies each time they strike. It...

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Computer Viruses

<P> </P><br /><P>History shows that in 1982 a man called Rich Skrenta made the first virus and put it "in the wild". This means that the virus infected systems other than the one where it was created and tested. Today experts tell us that we are loosing the war against the viruses. Mikko Hypponen who is believed to be with much influence in Internet says: "This is not just a battle between manufacturers of security software and some internet criminals. It is a war between good and evil".</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Microsoft describes the virus as a small program designed to interfere with the computer system and usually take control over it. One of its main functions is to spread around the net to other users and for this it usually uses the e-mail software or instant message tools.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The damage that a virus could make is usually permanent. It can erase data, it can change it on a way that is no longer useable or it can delete your whole hard drive. Some viruses of course don't target the data. They spy on your activity and warn their creators about it. In fact we can't predict what the next virus could do. It is a program like all your software. It can do anything.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>When talking about viruses most inexperienced users imagine horrible things because the very word virus terrifies them. Others take it very lightly saying: "What is the worse that can happen? I'll just reinstall some software..." But where these frivolous thoughts end and begin the real problem?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>To be infected could be a crime by itself. Imagine yourself working on a big corporation that in every moment dependents on the Internet and on every computer system in it. If your system is infected the infrastructure of the corporation is at stake because you are part of this infrastructure.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>If we check the news we will see things like ReverseClick.A is a Trojan that disables some of your primary programs like task manger and registry editor, it swaps you mouse buttons and do a lot of things that you won't like. XPCSpy can hide itself using some advanced technologies know as rootkits, Piggi.B conceal itself in the well known browser Internet Explorer and every time the user runs it the system is "updated" again with the virus code. The list of news goes on and every day new viruses appears to threaten our systems.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>"When this will end?" you may ask but no ending is foreseen. The only protection against viruses today is the anti-virus.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Anti-virus is software that works on different modes. In real time mode it checks all system activity and looks for malicious codes that are executed in the system. In scanning mode it can checks all files for the core code of different viruses or parts of them. Usually good anti-virus software can prevent most infections before they are able to do damage. It is very important for the protection software to be updated on regular bases because it uses different virus definitions that you need to have. In a bad day anti-virus companies receives more then 40000 possible virus codes and they work very hard on making a definition and a way to disinfect the system. This is why an update is always required and a good way to do that is to set your auto update option on.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There is no way to be sure if your system is clean and you are safe to work. That's why many people choose to have some experienced people working for them to prevent data stealing or deletion. One good <a href="http://www.rescuetechusa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">virus removal</A> company is <a href="http://www.rescuetechusa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">Rescue Techusa</A></P>

Computer Viruses

  History shows that in 1982 a man called Rich Skrenta made the first virus and put it "in the wild". This means that the virus in...

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Combating Viruses with Security Software

<P> </P><br /><P>Help, I was sitting in front my computer and it started acting strange! Pop-ups were on my screen and I was not even surfing the web. My home page was changed somehow and so did other web settings. My programs are at a crawl and overall my computer is just not working the way it should be.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>If this sounds like your computer, chances are you have been infected with some type of malicious software. Several types of software can infect your computer; some of these are spyware, a virus, a Trojan, and a worm. That is why you need security software.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Below is a brief and simple description of the software that can infect your computer and cause poor performance.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>· Spyware is a program that gathers information about the user through the internet without their knowledge. It monitors your web activity and passes this information to another party without your knowledge. Spyware is designed for commercial gain, thus when it is installed in your computer you will probably receive unsolicited pop-up advertisements. It can also gather your email addresses, passwords, and credit card numbers stored on your computer.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>· A virus is programming code or a piece of code that loads onto your computer without your consent. A virus is also self-replicating by inserting copies into an executable code or documents. Any virus is dangerous as it uses up memory and brings your system to a halt.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>· A worm is much like a virus in the fact that it is self-replicating but differs in the fact that it does not need another program to do so. A worm can spread itself without any action from the user. A worm can attach itself to you address book and send a copy to everyone in it, then attaches itself to the receivers address book in addition, send it out to everyone in that address book. Worms are dangerous and in the end can cause networks to crash.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>· Trojans are designed as legitimate software that you can download onto your computer. Once installed though, they can be annoying and/or malicious. Annoying activities of a Trojan would be changing your desktop around or silly icons appearing. Malicious damage from a Trojan is capable of deleting files on your computer and allowing personal and confidential information to be collected without you being aware.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Preventing spyware and other malicious software from infecting your computer through security software is lots easier going online and finding a reputable online scanning site after the fact. Sometimes if your computer is infected, you may not even be able to get online. Therefore, prevention is better than fixing.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>You can protect your computer from malicious programs in many ways. Here are a few tips to consider.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Always have the latest version of anti virus and anti spyware technology on your computer. You will also need to keep the program files up to date in order to protect against newest threats.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Only download files from a trusted source. If you are not sure, run a virus scan on the file before downloading it or saving to your computer.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There are limitless resources on the internet offering anti spyware and antivirus programs. Many sites offer free online scans, and provide instructions for removal of any malicious programs on your computer. Once you have selected a well known, (well-known being the optimal word) follow the instructions for installation carefully to ensure that the scan will work properly. Below are the most common and well-known virus and spyware removal programs.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>McAfee (mcafee.com) virus remover features up-to-date protection from the latest viruses and web activity threats for the user. They have three main anti-virus and anti-spyware programs that you can choose perfect for home and business uses.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Microsoft has an anti spyware (microsoft.com) removal tool that you can use to scan your computer. This functions mainly by reviewing and checking your files for unwanted software contents, and once found can be selected and removed depending on the procedures indicated on the program. Just follow the tools and guides on how you can remove the infected files.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Ad Ware Personal provided by Lavasoft.com features scanning and fixing infected files and drives, detection of known and unknown but potentially damaging software with its Code Sequence Identification (CSI) technology. This program also has a spyware removal and capabilities of removing other damaging programs in your system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The above sites are just a few of anti spyware and anti virus removal programs that are available on the web. Take the time and do the research and you will find the right security software for your needs. Once again, it is imperative that the site you select for your computer security is credible.</P>

Combating Viruses with Security Software

  Help, I was sitting in front my computer and it started acting strange! Pop-ups were on my screen and I was not even surfing the web. My h...

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Remove Viruses From Your Computer - Tips and Tricks

<P> </P><br /><P>Removing a computer virus in your computer can be a scary task.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Even the most experience computer tech might have a difficult challenges without the right software.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Technology has revolutionized the way we see the world. We are now able to have a conversation virtually face-to-face with someone in the other side of the world via messenger absolutely free.  </P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Personal computers (PCs) since its introduction to the public in the mid 80s have changed our lives. Allowing the public to automate daily task, personal computers (PCs) have become critical tools to our everyday life.  </P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>However, since the birth of the internet for public usage back in the mid-late 90s, hackers have found a breeding ground.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Hackers are software developers that create programs to attack computer systems. One the most sophisticated software ever developed focuses on disabling antivirus programs by attacking PC's registry (PC database). Once antivirus software is disabled in a persona computer, it becomes an easy target for any attack. Hijack programs are responsible for scanning your computer for any credit card information stored in your computer or internet browser (including credit card transactions, online banking password and ID, etc).  But, what is spyware and how dangerous is it?  Spyware (hijack programs) are automatically installed in your computer without the users' consent and many times users are deceived to allow the programs to automatically install while surfing the internet.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The source of spyware can be an email, an infected internet page, or even an infected CD that installs information into your computer.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Spyware attacks in your computer can ruin your computer, your financial status, steal your identity, and use your computer as a hijack system to attack other computers.  It's recommended to keep your antivirus up date and never open emails that you might not recognize, since emails with attachments are the easier way for spyware to access your computer.   What are the symptoms?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>While accessing the internet do you experience?</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>- Slow page download - Pop-ups</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>- Sudden freeze (Computer won't respond)</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>- Blue Screen with white letters (known as the blue screen of death)</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>- Computer won't respond after you turn it on. </P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Any of these symptoms might indicate that your system might be hijacked and it's recommend that you take to any computer repair place (which can be very pricey). Also, not following the correct steps can endanger your personal information such as or credit cards, or online banking login information.   Also, it's recommended that you find a good program that can cure your registry. THE REGISTRY IS THE MOST HEART AND MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR COMPUTER!! Good software will remove the spyware from the registry and remove any threats.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Hope my article provided you with helpful information</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Good luck and stay safe.</P>

Remove Viruses From Your Computer - Tips and Tricks

  Removing a computer virus in your computer can be a scary task.   Even the most experience computer tech might have a difficult challenges...

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Do You Know the Dangers - Guide to Types of Computer Viruses & Malware

<P> </P><br /><P>Computer security is an essential part of protection for your PC from the dangers lurking on the Internet, in fact, surfing the net without Malware Security is like walking through a hospital without an Immune System. There are zillions of threats, from minimal nuisances to severe Malware that can completely and permanently disable vital functions to where the entire operating system needs to be reinstalled and all programs and data lost.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>What is Malware: </B>Malware is short for malicious code software (mal-ware), which includes any and all forms of code designed with malicious intent. Malware is the umbrella under which all security dangers exist, such as viruses, worms, spyware, phishing, adware, tracking cookies and rootkits.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>What is a computer Virus:</B> Threat Level - Intermediate to Severe. A computer virus is a malicious code that adds itself to other programs that exist on the computer (host), including operating systems. Many computer viruses spread quickly and wreck havoc on the system host, including potential destruction of operating systems and data.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There are different types of viruses and they range from being a nuisance that constantly displays pop-ups to severe dangers that delete system files, attach to registries, destroy the user's ability to log into the Internet and even destroying the computer's operating system along with all the data that is on it. Unless you have completely backed-up the data on your PC, recovering that data will be impossible if you have to re-install the operating system after a virus infection.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>While there are many different viruses, the Trojan Horse is one of the most severe and all though threat severity levels vary within the different types of Trojans, basically they are all dangerous and should always be protected against. Unfortunately some Trojans infect computers and cause such damage that it becomes irreversible and a reinstall of the entire operating system becomes necessary.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The best protection against computer viruses is prevention, early detection and removal. A good anti-virus/ Malware security software can protect your computers and provide peace of mind when surfing the net.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>P2P File Sharing and Virus Dangers:</B> One of the easiest ways to get a virus is by downloading unsafe freeware, shareware or person 2 person (P2P) from file sharing sites. Specifically those sites that provide P2P free music downloads. Some of these sites are Limewire, Bearshare and Morpheus. Users create a free account on these sites, download the software (which is sometimes full of Spyware/Adware on its own) and get access to millions of other peoples files through what is called the Gnutella Network. Users can search for MP3 music files and download them from other people's computers through this Network.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>First, this is illegal, but that's a whole other topic. With these types of downloads there is no way of knowing what is actually on these files and it is easy to download a serious viruses and especially a Trojan. These P2P sites should be avoided to ensure computer security. For a few bucks you can get legal and safe music downloads at sites like Napster and Rhapsody. Play it safe, paying the few bucks is well worth it, as it can save lots of money, not to mention the hassle of having to fix a damaged computer.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Worms: </B>Threat Level - Severe. A computer Worm is a a type of especially nasty Malware that is a self-replicating computer program, which at one point almost brought the entire Internet to its knees. Unlike a virus, it doesn't attach itself to an existing program and does not infect computer files, instead it wrecks havoc on systems as it creates endless copies of itself, with the goal of taking up as much space as possible on the PC and creating program problems.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Worms almost always cause harm to the network, if only by consuming bandwidth, whereas viruses almost always corrupt or modify files on a targeted computer. Internet worms are most prevalent today in the form of email attachments. Two of the worst worms ever were Mydoom and Morris.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Worms are usually sent via email by attachments, you should never open an attachment in your email from an unknown source. Also, when deciding on an anti virus security program it is important to make sure that the email scanner is activated and that the software covers protection, detection and removal features for worms.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Spyware: </B>Threat Level - Low to Severe. Spyware is one of the most common types of Malware and often slows computer performance. Spyware spies on your web browsing activities and comes in forms of keyloggers (where your keystrokes are monitored), recording/sending your web browsing habits to a third party, causing unwanted pop-up adds, hijacking home/search pages and making changes to them, as well as, redirecting browsing results.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>A Spyware infection can be caught in several ways. One way is by clicking on a bad link from a bad site. Two, through small windows of advertising that pop up during web browsing (pop-ups). Third, there is what is called a drive-by type download and that is where Spyware infects computers without the user noticing, just by visiting a bad web page. Tip: All web browsers allow you to check a "block pop-ups" selection which can be accessed from the browser toolbar under options.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Adware: </B>Threat Level: Low to Intermediate. Adware is Advertising Display Software that delivers ads in a manner or context that is unexpected, unsolicited and automatically loaded. Many adware applications also perform tracking functions, and therefore may also be categorized as Tracking Technologies. Adware causes pop-up windows with advertisements in the browser based on the information it collects from the user's browsing patterns. Sometimes adware may be installed in conjunction with a companion Spyware program.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Phishing:</B> Threat Level - Severe. Phishing is a form of Internet fraud that aims at identity theft. It's purpose is to steal valuable information such as credit cards, social security numbers, user IDs and passwords.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>A phishing site is a duplicate of a legitimate site and it is created to dupe users into logging in and therefore stealing private information. Many phishing scams are perpetrated via mass emails which alert the customer to some problem with your customer account or some other hook, usually from a bank, or Paypal or some other institution and it lures people into entering their private data by following a link to the phishing site of a real site.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>The recent IRS rebates spawned a phishing scam, where mass emails were sent with IRS logos informing taxpayers that they are due a rebate check but they must first follow the IRS link and input their information to receive the rebate. The link, of course, leads to a phishing site where unsuspecting people enter personal information, like social security numbers which are then hijacked by identity thieves.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>It is important to realize that most reputable companies do not usually send emails soliciting private data. In fact, Paypal explicitly lets its users know that they never solicit customers via email in any way. The IRS has a fraud alert on their homepage advising taxpayers of such phishing scams. If you get emails like this just hit the SPAM button and run for your life or at the very least check with the institution that sent the email in some other way.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There is also the danger of running into a phishing site while web browsing, it is important to have computer security software that will alert to phishing sites with real-time protection. Phishing security is NOT standard on all anti virus software and Malware removal programs. When considering a security program make sure to look for phishing protection.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Drive-By Downloads: </B>Threat Level - Low to Severe</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Drive-By download is where all types of Malware can infect your computer via a visit to a web page. The Malware codes are embedded in these bad sites and looks for users computers to become hosts to attach itself to. It is important to look for drive-by or real time protection when considering security software. Drive-by or real time protection should be included on the anti virus software that is on the computer.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Rootkits: </B>Threat Level - Severe. Rootkits are really bad because they can hide their existence from operating systems and users and cause major destruction. Because Rootkits create stealth program codes that run at a lower level than can be detected with all normal anti virus software and Malware removal programs, it is crucial to make sure that the security software explicitly protects against rootkits.</P><br /><P><B></B> </P><br /><P><B>Cookies: </B>Threat Level - Low. Some cookies are positive and really do not harm to your system in anyway, they simply temporarily store your log-in information so that you do not have to enter it again when you return to that site. Plus, many sites will not run properly without cookies enabled and so they are a necessary element. And these temporary cookies can be cleared from within your browser at any time you.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>On the other hand Tracking Cookies are a form of Tracking Technology. Tracking Cookies are used to track the surfing habits of users in order to manage, analyze advertising data, and they may be used with the more malicious intent of monitoring user activity more closely. Tracking cookies are usually easily detected and protection from them comes standard on most anti virus and Malware security software.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>It can be more difficult to remove Malware if infection occurs than to protect against it and some Malware causes such damage that a complete operating system reinstall is required. There are many Malware security softwares, including some great free ones, and firewalls, that offer various levels of protection.</P>

Do You Know the Dangers - Guide to Types of Computer Viruses & Malware

  Computer security is an essential part of protection for your PC from the dangers lurking on the Internet, in fact, surfing the net withou...

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Types of Computer Viruses

<P> </P><br /><P>In the technological world, antivirus firewall software deals with two diverse methods of preventing a computer from being compromised. Antivirus software (also known as Internet Security Software) utilizes updated scanning technology that scans your computer looking for viruses that may have entered and infected your system. Once the "bad" software (a virus) has been detected, the antivirus engine can clean the infected file or delete it from your computer. Firewall software, in contrast, blocks access into and out of your PC which can prevent viruses, Trojans and various unwanted impostors from entering your computer's Operating System (OS) or file system. The firewall blocks certain communication ports, therefore protecting the computer from "bad" traffic that exploits known software bugs on specific ports. Both pieces of software aid in keeping viruses, worms and Trojan horses out of your computer.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Virus: <BR></P><br /><P>Internet security software is designed to work together in fighting multiple security threats; the first of which is called a computer virus. A computer virus is a little program written to attach itself to a normal program that is running on your PC. For example, the virus could piggyback onto your web browser, so that when you open your web browser the virus is started as well. Once this virus is executed it can reproduce itself by grabbing onto other programs causing all kinds of issues. This is why antivirus firewall software is so critical to the productivity of each computer system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Trojan Horse: <BR></P><br /><P>A Trojan horse virus is tricky software that is based off, according to Greek mythology, of the gigantic, hollow wooden horse that was constructed by the Greeks to import their fighting men into the city of Troy under the guise of a peace offering. Trojan software acts like it is a certain program (like a game) but instead becomes a vicious piece of software when executed.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Email Virus: <BR></P><br /><P>An email virus reproduces by attaching to an email message that is sent to someone's email. It then emails itself out to every email address that was present on the address book of the "sick" computer. This type of virus software can replicate very quickly, can be harmful to each system it affects, and can cause major issues to corporate email servers and networks.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Worms: <BR></P><br /><P>A worm is an intelligent piece of software that replicates itself via computer networks and specific security holes. It makes its way into a PC and then uses its network connectivity to move from one computer to the next. Worms can move extremely fast which makes them very hard to detect because they do not stay in one place for too long.</P>

Types of Computer Viruses

  In the technological world, antivirus firewall software deals with two diverse methods of preventing a computer from being compromised. An...

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Viruses - Life and Death

<P> </P><br /><P>There are several things that count as "the bane" of computer users' lives. Computers crashing, screens freezing, the intention to save data two seconds before a power cut are some, and viruses are another. There are thousands of viruses out in the cyber world, in various guises, old and new, virulent and redundant, all created with the same malicious intent, to ruin your life. You have to be a special kind of evil to release something like a Trojan horse out into the world, knowing that it will infect millions of anonymous people, innocent people and do untold damage. Cyber-terrorists, they don't need bombs, they don't need guns, they don't need actual violence and death, but the destruction that they cause can be just as great as the traditional kind.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Viruses are not only virulent and destructive, they can also be sneaky, and many have methods that they use to avoid detection by anti-virus software. For example, some are able to infect files without increasing their size or damaging them. These viruses are called cavity viruses and achieve their goal by overwriting the unused areas of executable files. Other viruses kill the tasks that the anti-virus is supposed to carry out in its detection activities. As technology is constantly updated and computers and operating systems increase in complexity, the need for viruses to improve their deception techniques also grows.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>A bait file is a file that has been especially created to be infected by a virus. The reasons for this are varied. They can be used to take a sample of the virus. Storing and exchanging a small, infected bait file is more practical than exchanging a large programme that has been infected. Bait files can be used to study the behaviour of viruses and evaluate detection methods. This can be particularly helpful when a virus is polymorphic and infects a large number of bait files, which can then be used to test if a scanner detects all versions. Some software uses bait files that are accessed on a regular basis, and when the files are modified the software alerts the user to the fact that a virus is active in the system.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Viruses are designed to avoid suspicious programmes, particularly small programme files or programmes that contain patterns of "garbage instructions". Another avoidance strategy that makes baiting difficult is sparse infection. This involves not infecting a file that would be an ideal host in other circumstances. For instance, there is a random process that decides whether or not to infect a file or not, there is also a process that decides to infect host files on particular days of the week only.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Another way that viruses deceive anti-virus software is by intercepting and interfering with its requests to the operating system to read the file. Instead, it passes it on to the virus, which returns an uninfected version so that it seems that the file is "clean". Booting from a medium that you know to be absolutely clean is one reliable method to avoid this stealth.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>An advanced method of avoidance is actually fairly simple in theory. It involves the use of encryption to encipher the virus, which then consists of a decrypting module and an encrypted copy of the virus code. There may be a different encrypted key for each infected file so that the only constant is the decrypting module. A scanner wouldn't detect the virus using signatures but it can still detect the decrypting module, which is an indirect method of detection. The file would probably be flagged as suspicious.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>Some viruses take sneaky tricks to a whole new level and completely rewrite themselves in order to avoid being detected. These are metamorphic viruses and need a metamorphic engine in order to complete this rewriting process. They are large and complex, most of which is made up of that engine.</P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>When it comes to preventing viruses, there are two common methods of detection that are used. The first is to use a list of virus signature definitions. The computer's memory is examined, along with any files on fixed and removable drives, and these are compared with a database of known virus signatures. The downside to this is that you are only protected to the date of your last update. If anything new has been released and you haven't updated your system you will be vulnerable to it. The second method is to use an heuristic algorithm that identifies viruses based on common behaviours. This enables you to identify viruses that security firms still have to create signatures for. It is important that you update your anti-virus software on a regular basis so that you can prevent the latest and most virulent threats from attacking your computer and destroying all of your data.</P>

Viruses - Life and Death

  There are several things that count as "the bane" of computer users' lives. Computers crashing, screens freezing, the intent...

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Internet Security - 8 Proven Tactics to Eliminate Threats From Spam, Viruses, and Hackers

<br /> <p>As an online business owner, you face treacherous Internet security risks every single time you're online. Viruses, hackers, and spam await you at every turn. The reality is that these threats are always going to be a component of being online and doing business online. Unfortunately, they seem to be here to stay.</p><p>Given that, there are a number of precautions you can take to make yourself, your business and the visitors to your site as safe as possible. Here are 8 tactics proven to enhance your Internet security:</p><p>1. Virus Protection. Make sure you have the latest virus updates installed on your computer and let the software thoroughly scan your entire computer daily to ensure that no viruses successfully planted themselves on your hard drive. Set your virus checker to scan your email when it downloads, as well.</p><p>I use AVG Free to scan both my computer and my email. They also have a fee-based version that provides complete Internet protection. McAfee and Norton also offer similar products.</p><p>For spyware and malware protection, I use CounterSpy. The company that makes this software also has a new product to protect against viruses and spyware called VIPRE.</p><p>2. Spam Blocker. I have a spam blocker that I use with Outlook called Cloudmark Desktop that does a great job of helping me train my email program to recognize spam. What I like about this program is that the program users tell Cloudmark what spam arrives in their inboxes, and the programmers update Cloudmark accordingly to recognize those kinds of emails. Other spam blocker programs include IHateSpam and MailWasher.</p><p>3. Web hosting Spam Blocker. To block spam before it even hits my Outlook inbox, one of my hosting accounts offers Postini spam blocking on my server. I pay a few dollars extra each month to add this service, but it is well worth it, as it routinely blocks at least 100 emails per day that are spam. I always have the option to log into that account if I am missing an email that may have ended up there accidentally, and I can "whitelist" the sender so that it goes though without a problem the next time. Every night this service sends me a list of emails that are questionable (i.e. the service isn't sure if it's spam), and I quickly scan them to approve any that have been misidentified.</p><p>4. Email Address Spam. One of the easiest ways your email address gets added to massive lists of spammed email addresses is by including a clear link to your email address on your website. Spambots routinely patrol the Internet looking for readily available email addresses to harvest online. Even if you have the link "cloaked" by saying "click here to email", which will bring up your email address in the visitor's email program, the spambot is able to read the HTML sourcecode and harvest the email address.</p><p>Instead, remove your email address off of all of your websites. Use a contact form for people to email you that incorporates CAPTCHA technology (where the form filler has to read a graphic representation of a word or set or numbers to prove that s/he isn't a spambot). I use the free version of Freedback for this task.</p><p>5. Discussion List Spam. If your email address must appear on any discussion lists, blog posts, or forum postings, use a free email address like the ones available at Gmail or Yahoo. In this way, you protect your "real" email address from being picked up by spambots.</p><p>6. Catch-All Email Address. If your web host company permits, create a catch-all email address that receives all email not specifically marked for a set POP email address or email forward you may have set up. When you sign up for someone's free giveaway, for example, that will add you to their marketing list you can then enter an email address that reminds you of the site or giveaway where you used it.</p><p>For example, if I'm signing up for Jane Smith's free dog training tips report, I might use <a href="mailto:dogtraining@mydomain.com">dogtraining@mydomain.com</a>, which will then end up in my catch-all domain email address. In this way, you don't have to give away your "real" email address, and you can determine if the list holder sells or rents your email address to another. So, then, if you suddenly begin to get emails to your <a href="mailto:dogtraining@mydomain.com">dogtraining@mydomain.com</a> address from a dog food company you've never heard of, you'll know that Jane sold or rented your email address to them.</p><p>7. Firewalls and Hackers. Make sure that you are using Windows firewall protection, at a minimum, to protect your computer from being hacked while you're online. Or, use a free firewall like ZoneAlarm. You can also upgrade for a fee to get enhanced protection.</p><p>If you use a wireless router, be sure to set a password to secure it so that anyone passing by your home or office cannot hijack your signal and potentially hack your computer. I was resetting the wireless connection on my laptop just last week and discovered that there were 3 unsecured wireless connections in my neighborhood. I live in a residential section with no businesses, so I know that these were unsecure wireless routers in my neighbors' homes.</p><p>8. Secure Server. If you're selling something online, either your website hosting account or your shopping cart provider needs to have a security certificate so that any monetary transactions can be made over a secure server. You can check to see if your checkout process is secure by looking for https:// in the address window of your browser when browser when you are on the payment page of your site/shopping cart. Some browsers will also show a gold locked padlock icon when you are on a secure server.</p><p>I had to purchase a security certificate from my hosting company for my membership site, as the secure server wasn't built into the shopping cart that is integrated into the membership site software. If you use Paypal or some version of 1ShoppingCart.com, you are safe, as your customers' transactions are being carried over a secure server.</p><p>When you make sure that your computer and email are protected from spam, viruses, malware and the like, your customers are then safe when you email them or upload something to your site for them to access. Responsible online business owners need to take every precaution available to them to enhance Internet security for all involved.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

Internet Security - 8 Proven Tactics to Eliminate Threats From Spam, Viruses, and Hackers

As an online business owner, you face treacherous Internet security risks every single time you're online. Viruses, hackers, and spam...

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Viruses Are Not the Only Nasties in Town

<br /> <p>When we think of computer security the first thing that comes to mind are viruses and their variants that wreak havoc upon our computers.</p><p>But do you know that viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are not the only enemies threaten your pc security?</p><p>Here are some other baddies that can attack your computer and do unimaginable damage:</p><p><strong>Dreaded Dialers</strong></p><p>Dialers are not as well-known as viruses but they certainly can do a lot of damage not only to your computer but to your pocketbook. When they get into your computer they will make your computer to call long distance or premium calls and you wouldn't know this is happening until you get a hefty phone bill. They also can change the phone number you use to connect with the dial-up connection with the result that you won't be able to connect to the internet but somebody else may be using the surfing time while you pay for it.</p><p><strong>Snoopers: Spyware and Adware</strong></p><p>These are other sneaky programs that can do another kind of harm to your computer. Spyware and adware are used inter-changeably by many, but they are two different animals. Of these, adware is considered less dangerous because it sends you un-requested advertising to your computer while you are surfing while not damaging your computer registry in anyway.</p><p>From the point of computer security such actions of the adware might sound less threatening, but consider the effect of adult content popping up on the computer screen when your kids are surfing the internet. This aside, the unwanted pop-ups and ads are a nuisance to your surfing experience.</p><p>On the other hand spyware is more harmful. When it is on your computer it will gather information about which sites you visit, where you shop or surf. This information is used to send you ads related to your interest. While this may not sound too sinister, the spyware can get your usernames, passwords and also personal financial information such as credit card numbers, social security numbers all of which can be used to impersonate you and involve you in financial loss as well as get you into potentially difficult situations.</p><p><strong>Hijackers</strong></p><p>This is one of the most dreadful things that can happen to a computer. Here a hacker literally takes control of your computer without your knowing it. In the hands of the hijacker, the computer turns into a mindless zombie committing illegal acts which can be blamed upon you.</p><p>This could be sending massive amounts of spam emails or attacking web pages of other sites which are considered criminal offense.</p><p>This threat is more insidious because when a hijacker takes control of a computer, the owner doesn't normally become aware that there is anything wrong with his machine. Such hijacked computer may become a little slower but as this can happen because of many other causes. So the computer owner is blissfully aware of the trouble that he could land into because of such hacking.</p><p><strong>Can all this happen to you?</strong></p><p>While it is unlikely that all that bad things that can happen to a computer would happen to you. But assume that they will. Because such things do happen to other computers, it is possible that your computer may come under threat sometimes.</p><p>Starting with this premise, install a firewall on your computer if you haven't done so already. A firewall acts as a shield against unwanted programs carrying malware. While you can invest in paid firewall if you wish, you can also use Zone Alarm which is free and very effective.</p><p>Also scan your computer for viruses, spyware and adware. Use good antivirus and antispyware programs. Here also you have the choice of free and paid versions from many reputed vendors. Paid or free whichever you use make sure to get the latest versions which can not only detect the viruses present on your computer but can also successfully destroy them.</p><p>And above all, be security conscious. Learn all you can about pc security and always be on the guard. This is like auto insurance. While we don't expect to get into an auto crash every time we drive out, we do take out auto insurance - just in case. So is it with pc security. Never let down your guard. You can come under attack anytime.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>For more info on PC and internet security visit: <a href="http://pc-security-for-you.blogspot.com/" target="_new">PC Security For You</a><br> <a href="http://pc-security-for-you.blogspot.com/" target="_new">http://pc-security-for-you.blogspot.com/</a></p> <br />

Viruses Are Not the Only Nasties in Town

When we think of computer security the first thing that comes to mind are viruses and their variants that wreak havoc upon our computers....

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Computer Viruses - What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

<br /> <p>There are so many clever viruses out there now it can be hard to avoid getting a virus on your computer but if you do two things in particular, you can make sure that your computer stays free of the worst types of computer viruses.</p><p>The first place to start is with your e-mail. If you get attachments from people that you weren't expecting or didn't ask for then don't open them. An awful lot of the virus outbreaks you see around you are spread via e-mail. One small infection can get global in less than 24 hours.</p><p>Hand-in-hand with using common sense with your e-mail is installing a brand name antivirus software program. A good program can be set up so that it protects you fully from any virus infection and will fully protect your inbox. If you look at some of the more famous virus outbreaks like the Melissa virus it was spread by e-mail. When someone downloaded and opened the document, the virus then accessed the user's address book and sent copies of the documents along with the virus to the first 50 people in the hacked address book. Every computer that received the virus accessed the user's e-mail address book and sent out an additional 50 copies of the attachment.</p><p>The Melissa virus created a worldwide Internet slowdown that took only hours to spread. The second widespread virus was 2000's 'ILOVEYOU virus'. When people opened that e-mail with a double-click, the virus automatically sent copies of itself to every single e-mail address in the user's computer e-mail address book.</p><p>It cost billions to clear up the damage. All for the sake of having a decent anti-virus program installed on the users computers.</p><p>Anti-virus software<br /><br>If you're concerned about receiving these infected e-mails, you should have anti-virus software installed on your computer. There's no excuse for running a computer without having some kind of anti-virus protection. You can get freeware antivirus software programs or you can buy commercial programs which can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 so as you can see you don't have to spend a fortune. Most antivirus software programs work by examining the files as they're added to the computer's memory and by scanning them later at a time that you set. They examine each e-mail attachment you've received and every file you downloaded looking for viruses and other unwelcome bits of code.</p><p>If they find a virus, the antivirus software program will notify you with a popup or warning of some kind. Infected attachments, programs, and other items will be cleaned of the virus. If it isn't possible to clean the virus out, the infected files can be removed or placed into a quarantine status so they can't be used or run. The worst possible outcome is that the files may need to be deleted - better to do this than risk an ongoing virus problem on your PC.</p><p>Because computer viruses create 'signatures', it's important that regular updates be installed to the antivirus software program. The updated files contain lists and characteristics of new signatures as they're created so each time the software runs its antivirus check, it can pick up any subtle nuances that might signify a virus. Almost all antivirus software programs can be set up to notify you when the virus software is out of date or when you need to update it. Actually most of them will update themselves automatically - most users forget to run the updates themselves.</p><p>People get a bit lazy when they install antivirus software. They might think that they're totally protected and don't need to worry about their computer becoming infected. They believe that the software is doing all the work for them. The reality is that there is still a little bit of work to do on your part even after you install your antivirus software.</p><p>New viruses appear all the time. Usually the anti-virus companies know about this and can protect your computer with a signature update. Now and again though a new virus will get loose and start infecting computers before anybody is ready to protect against it. Don't just assume your anti-virus package is going to keep you 110% safe - you still need to be proactive in keeping your computer secure.</p><p>Follow the usual guidelines: never open an attachment from somebody you don't know; only download software from trusted sources; and assume that every e-mail attachment, every website you visit, and every other program you come in contact with could be a potential security problem. As always, the message remains the same: be careful, be smart, and protect your data as you would your life.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>Did you know there are hundreds of new viruses appearing every single week? If you're not using some kind of <a href="http://www.cpusecurity.com/virus/" target="_new">computer virus protection</A> software you're going to wind up with a serious virus problem. Get educated on fighting computer viruses today @ <a href="http://www.cpusecurity.com" target="_new">http://www.CPUSecurity.com</A></p> <br />

Computer Viruses - What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

There are so many clever viruses out there now it can be hard to avoid getting a virus on your computer but if you do two things in parti...

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Why I Protect My PC Now From Viruses and Computer Hijackers

<br /> <p>PC security is vital in this day and age where not only is your personal information available online your children or you can become victims if you don't go asking how to protect my PC now. Some people chose not to have a computer that is one way to never worry about this problem but if you are like most people a computer often a pc type is part of the kids homework, your home office, or even networked to your business these days.</p><p>Just last month, in the Denver local news, a person had their entire computer hacked as they call it even though the computer owner had one of the most popular anti virus programs running on their system. This happens to many people all over the country and personally I had my system broken into five times in 2005 that is when I finally got serious about this problem. Every day you can read more about how you and your computer are in trouble if you don't take the issue of computer security serious. So how can we stop these kind of crimes and be able to have a computer in our home?</p><p>First you have to find the right computer for you. Then don't just settle with whatever someone suggests find the computer that meets your needs as your security program is something you add to your computer not something that determines your purchase. Many pc's come with a trail of something on it to get you going but you should not just decide that is the best for you without investigating your options. This is exactly how my computer got hijacked five times back in 2005. This article is not a recommendation of a product - instead we want to stop Cyber crime.</p><p>Is it important as more computer threats are emerging literally by the second. Beware as it is no longer just about viruses. You can expect to hear about and have to watch out for spyware, trojans, worms, rootkits, bots and even phishing attacks. Each month new plots to take over your computer or your life are all on the rise by hackers. One key to stopping this is make sure you have real-time protection with daily updates in security. Usually this is a setting you do once you choice how you want to virus protect your computer.</p><p>Run a anti virus scan daily if you use your computer often or have many people surfing the web. One of the best times to scan your system is while you sleep so everyone can use the computer if needed.</p><p>Also there are malware authors who are constantly redesigning their code formulas to elude anti virus and security programs. Some companies have a bigger jump than others on resources to reveal the behavior of these attackers and learn about how they plan to break into your computer. Finding a service that updates their anti virus software daily and even multiple times a day when needed may be important to you so that personal information like passwords are protected against the latest threat.</p><p>The impact on your home or business will be devastating if you don't spend time to explore how best way to virus protect your computers. That is why pro active protection is so important.</p><p>Here are some statistics:</p><p>1. There were 31,173 Phishing and password-stealing malware sites recorded by the APWG with an increase each quarter since. In fact the APWG reports a 4. % increase at minimum each quarter in 2009 for the last quarter on hijack attacks. This steady increase is thought to be part of the rise of social media in most homes.</p><p>2. Gartner another reporting agency found that in September 2008 their was an increase of 39.8 from the prior 12 months where USA buyers lost 5 million to phishing attacks alone.</p><p>3. In Addition the American Government malware attacks doubled between 2006 and 2008 and still steadily increase yearly according to the Department of Homeland Security.</p><p>4. Also fraud keeps going up Garnter once again reports that 7.5 percent American adults were victims of computer financial fraud last year with data breaches being the number one cause.</p><p>Whether you own and existing computer and have had problems or you are looking to buy a pc it is important to research from time to time the best way to have privacy and security online. With the USA and even the world making the internet the mode of communication and data storage for your most sensitive information it is important that you say protect my pc before you add any more important information to your current or new computer.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>Hardy MacKenzie had his computer hacked 5 times in 5 months and went on a search to put an end to his personal data being stolen. He shares with others how he found the best way to <a href="http://protectmypcnow.com" target="_new">protect my pc now</a>.</p><p>If you are ready to learn more about how to <a href="http://protectmypcnow.com" target="_new">virus protect</a> your computer visit Hardy's blog.</p> <br />

Why I Protect My PC Now From Viruses and Computer Hijackers

PC security is vital in this day and age where not only is your personal information available online your children or you can become vic...

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Are Antivirus Software Companies Responsible For Creating Computer Viruses?

<br /> <p>Many people are under the illusion that software companies are in the business of creating viruses. The truth is that so many viruses are turned loose everyday and the battle to combat all this keeps major software companies busy. Companies like Microsoft, Norton, and McAffee are our major protectors against viruses created by those who would do harm to our PC and to our very being. These companies are not in the business to destroy what they have built. The truth is the anti-virus venders have quite enough work to do just keeping up with the new malware variants that the organized crime gangs release upon unsuspecting PC users. Yes, I did say "gangs" not random high school students who are just trying to pull pranks. The first virus was created by a student experimenting with the system. Now it has become a major crime committed by professional criminals. Today is a completely new world we are fighting against professional hackers. Ten years ago or so hackers were just a bunch of smart kids who hacked as a hobby.</p><p>Today the word is that most Internet criminals are operating from Russia, China and Southern America. It is predicted by security specialists from the major anti-virus software companies that over the next five years there will be an increase in internet attacks from Central America, India, China and Africa. The other hot spot is in Brazil because they have many individuals with sophisticated computing skills but without the more lucrative job market to raise their standards of living. Malware creation hotspots growing in the former Soviet countries such as Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Lithuania and Lativia are the major areas of criminal activity. The online crime often presents a more lucrative path raising living standards for these people that is why it is hard to combat the problem.</p><p>Major companies like Microsoft would like to introduce a major anti-virus program with their Windows but if they did the U.S. anti-trust commission would charge them with violations. Microsoft tried to introduce Internet Explorer with Windows years ago and got into serious trouble. There is probably no way that our major companies will ever be allowed to offer anti-virus programs that would be included with the PC systems. This is very unfortunate for the general PC users.</p><p>The idea that these companies create viruses is just a myth. The major anti-virus companies are so busy creating software to combat the criminals we all have to face all around the world. The anti-virus companies do hire ex-hackers ostensibly for ethical hacking in order to check out the potential vulnerabilities of any system in advance. That is why the question about these companies creating viruses is highly controversial. When you see these ex-hackers, producing anti-virus packages that are fighting would be viruses. The fact is that even though these are the ones who help fight against a virus they are also the ones who create viruses. This does not mean that they turn the virus loose on unsuspecting internet users. In order to cure a virus you need to create a replica to experiment with to understand how the virus works. When the hackers know how a virus works then they are able to find a way to destroy, detect, or redirect the virus.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>Frederick Musser is the owner of <a href="http://crspros.com/" target="_new">Computer Restoration Services</a>. Providing Expert Laptop Repair and Virus Removal To Kalamazoo Michigan & the Surrounding Area.</p><p>For more FREE laptop repair tips and virus removal information please visit <a href="http://crspros.com/blog" target="_new">CRSPros.com of Kalamazoo Michigan</a>.</p><p>Frederick Musser Holds several IT Certifications including Comptia, CIW, and ExpertRated</p> <br />

Are Antivirus Software Companies Responsible For Creating Computer Viruses?

Many people are under the illusion that software companies are in the business of creating viruses. The truth is that so many viruses are...

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What Are Viruses and Worms, and Why You May Be At Risk, Even If You Think You're Safe

<br /> <p>Everybody has heard of computer viruses and worms - they're all over the news these days, but many people don't really understand what they are, or how to avoid them.</p><p>Basically, a virus or a worm is a program which is able to copy itself and spread from computer to computer. Kind of like a virus in a person, which gets one person sick, then that person passes it on to others, and they get sick too. Hence the name virus.</p><p>The difference between a worm and a virus is that a virus needs a person to open it to start it running and to allow it to infect your computer (for example, by opening an email attachment that hasn't been scanned for viruses) A worm on the other hand, infect a computer and spread to other computers again and again without you clicking a single thing.</p><p>Once a worm or a virus is on your computer, it can do a lot of different things. Until fairly recently, viruses (from now on, just assume that any time I say viruses, that I mean both viruses and worms, because they're very similar and it'll save time) Until recently, viruses were usually very damaging - they would delete files, completely erase hard drives, or sometimes even ruin a computers' motherboard by infecting a specific chip on the motherboard. (A motherboard, also called a "main logic board", is the main circuit board in the computer, so it's kind of like your central nervous system) When the software in the chip was replaced, you suddenly couldn't boot the computer, even with a clean hard drive.</p><p>Viruses were so damaging because the virus writers mainly wrote them to get their name known, and the bigger the damage, the more infamous they were.</p><p>These days, many viruses can lurk on your computer without you even knowing it, because the virus writers have different agendas. For example, there are millions of computers out there which are infected with viruses that cause the computers to send out spam (junk mail), and the computer owner has no idea this is happening.</p><p>These days, virus writers want to make money, and so to allow the virus to spread the most, the infected computers need to keep working. Because of this, the computer may slow down some, but nothing major seems to have gone wrong. But in reality, the computer user has had the wool pulled over their eyes and they just keep clicking away innocently while their computer silently sends out millions of junk emails.</p><p>By some estimates, there are over 100,000 viruses which specifically infect Windows PCs. These specific viruses cannot infect Linux or Unix machines, or Macs. There is literally one virus (at the time I'm recording this) which can infect some Macs running OS X, but it is pretty much what they call a "concept virus" which isn't likely to spread "in the wild."</p><p>So if you use a Mac, you are a lot safer than your friends who use Windows. But just because there aren't any Mac viruses now, doesn't mean someone won't develop one in the future. It is harder to do this for a Mac than it is to do for a Windows machine, because of the way the Mac software is designed, but it's hardly impossible.</p><p>On the other hand, Symantec (who makes Norton Antivirus) estimates that 91% (yes, that's ninety-one percent) of Windows computers are infected with some malicious software. Although this estimate includes adware and spyware (which I cover in a different chapter of this report) that's still an incredibly high number.</p><p>There are a couple of reasons for why viruses and other "malware" infect Windows machines so often. One reason is exposure - there are many times more computers running Windows than any other operating system, so they present a bigger target. But remember, just because a lot of people use something, doesn't mean it's the best option. Fast food is very very popular, but I don't think you could really say it's the best quality food.</p><p>Speaking of food, if you know your history, then you may have heard of the Irish Potato Famine that killed hundreds of thousands of people back in the 1800s.</p><p>This happened because of something called a "monoculture." In plain English, what that means is, the Irish used potatoes as the core of their diet - everybody ate them, and everybody grew them. And they were all growing one just one breed of potato.</p><p>What does that have to do with computers, you might be wondering.</p><p>Well, because they were only growing one type of potato, when a disease came along, it spread like wildfire, and killed off all of the potatoes, since they were all of the same type, and all had the same weakness to this disease.</p><p>This is just like how most people are using Windows, which creates something called a "computing monoculture." So that latest virus or worm, spreads all over the world sometimes in a matter of hours, because most computers are vulnerable.</p><p>Does that make sense?</p><p>And aside from that, Windows has so many security flaws (which mostly happen because of programming mistakes made by Microsoft) that they're discovering dozens and dozens more of these critical flaws every year. Any one of these critical flaws can allow anyone with a little knowledge to take control of your computer and use it any way they want. Or they can write a program (a virus) which does the same thing. For each of these flaws, you must install the update or "patch," which fixes the flaw, or you run the risk of your computer being hacked or infected.</p><p>Mac OS X in contrast to Windows, has had some of it's own security flaws in the last few years, but as yet we haven't seen a single real threat to them. Other operating systems such as Linux have similar track records. It is just as important on these computers to install any security updates, too, just in case.</p><p>Bottom line is, if you're running Windows it is absolutely essential that not only do you have antivirus software installed, but you must make sure your one-year subscription hasn't expired, and the software is updated every day. Your computer may have antivirus software installed, but if the subscription has expired, it's not protecting you!</p><p>I see this all the time -- people with Dells, HPs, or most of the big brand names will find their computer came with Norton or McAfee antivirus, but it only works for 90 days before the subscription expires. People get prompted to renew their subscription, but they don't do it.</p><p>I have been called by so many people, especially in the last few years, who have had me clean their systems up for them. In most cases I've found they either never put antivirus software on their PCs, or had ignored the repeated warnings from Norton or McAfee telling them their subscription had expired.</p><p>In many of those cases, I discovered a computer that barely worked anymore (or was so slow it literally took 10-20 minutes before you could start using it after you turned it on). In these situations I'm faced with either wiping their computer clean, and spending hours reinstalling Windows and their various programs (assuming they even had all their disks), etc., or spending hours scanning and cleaning up the computer with a variety of programs just to get them working again. Either way it takes time and effort to recover from a bad virus infection.</p><p>Hundreds of dollars, and hours, days, or weeks of aggravation, just because they didn't spend $40-$50 for antivirus software and take a few minutes to install it.</p><p>Another critical mistake people make with their antivirus software, is assuming that because Norton Antivirus and McAfee Antivirus are two of the best known, and most popular programs, that they are also the best ones.</p><p>This turns out not to be true. In fact, just the opposite.</p><p>A recent study by CERT, the Computer Emergency Response Team (one of the world's leading computer security organizations) revealed that the most popular antivirus programs, which include Norton and McAfee, missed 80% of new malicious software!</p><p>So in other words, 80% of the time, those programs are useless when trying protecting your computer!</p><p>So you're much better off with a less-known, but high quality program like <a href="http://www.kaspersky.com" rel="nofollow" target="_new">Kaspersky Internet Security</a>, which has been consistently rated as one of the best, with a success rate of over 99% effective. It's also a really good deal as you get a license to use it on 3 computers for less than the price of Symantec Antivirus (Norton) on one PC.</p><p>Aside from having effective antivirus software, which is current and up-to-date, you also need to be getting your security updates installed as soon as they come out.</p><p>On Windows computers, this is called Windows Update, and on Macs this is called Software Update.</p><p>Both Macs and Windows users (if you have Windows XP service pack 2 installed or any newer version of Windows) probably have their computer checking for these updates automatically, but they may not get installed unless you follow the steps when the computer tells you there are updates available.</p><p>Hopefully these tips will help you keep yourself safe.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>Worth Godwin is a computer coach with over 15 years' experience helping computer users of all levels, and has also worked for many years "in the trenches" as a hardware and software tech, solving real-world computer problems.</p><p>Worth has also been studying the human mind, and how people learn, since the early 1990s. He draws upon all of this experience, as well as his English and writing degrees, to teach people in a unique way with explanations that really make sense.</p><p>In 2006, Worth began putting his easy lessons together on CD, helping you with either <a href="http://www.worthgodwin.com/apple-mac-os-x-how-to-training/" target="_new">Apple Mac training</a> or <a href="http://www.worthgodwin.com/windows-computer-how-to-training/" target="_new">Windows computer training</a> that lets you go at your own pace, for an affordable price, with a system that is both simple and easy.</p> <br />

What Are Viruses and Worms, and Why You May Be At Risk, Even If You Think You're Safe

Everybody has heard of computer viruses and worms - they're all over the news these days, but many people don't really understand...

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Securing Your Computer From Viruses

<br /> <p>Fixing a bug or virus on your computer can be easy, if you have the right software, and if you don't you may end up working the day just to keep your computer from blowing up. I have a couple recommendations for you that will keep your home computer safe and free from virus programs, malware and security hacks.</p><p>The first thing you should do when you get a brand-new computer is to get a program called Ghost. What Ghost will do is take an exact copy of your hard drive and store it somewhere that you identify. So if my hard drive crashes, all I have to do is get my ghost image put it on my computer and my computer will once again look and act just like it did before my computer crashed. Norton ghost is a great program, is very easy to use and I highly recommend it.</p><p>So now you've taken an image of your computer, if you have purchased ghost. What you need to do is install an antivirus program. There are a number of free antivirus programs online or you can purchase one. I am a computer technician, and I prefer to use the free antivirus programs, and specifically the Avasti program. So do a search on Google for free antivirus software and you will find a number of different antivirus programs to download. I would also look at the reviews and recommendations from others who've installed these programs.</p><p>So once you've installed your antivirus software you'll need to run it to check your hard drive and make sure it is not corrupted with any worms or viruses, if you have the software. Clean your computer system first before you take an image of it. If your hard drive is clean and clear of viruses than use Norton ghost to take advantage of your hard drive and store it on a separate hard drive.</p><p>Finally, one of the other items I do to secure my computers iced install a firewall software. As with the antivirus software there are many different firewall software is available for free online. Do your research and find the firewall software that will work best for you and your computer. The firewall software will help keep intruders away from hacking into your system. Nothing is 100% preventable, but the firewall software will help you secure your computer.</p><p>So if you've done all of the steps above your computer should be fairly secure. Download and install an antivirus software program to make sure your computer is clear. Take a ghost image of your hard drive and store it somewhere. And finally install the firewall software and configure. At least once a week make sure you run your antivirus software to scan your hard drive for new and additional virus programs that may have been installed on your system.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>For information on <a href="http://rollupelectricpiano.info/electronic-piano-keyboard/" target="_new">Electronic Piano Keyboard</a> try visiting our blog about <a href="http://rollupelectricpiano.info/?p=17" target="_new">Roll UP Piano Keyboard</a> and more music news and reviews.</p> <br />

Securing Your Computer From Viruses

Fixing a bug or virus on your computer can be easy, if you have the right software, and if you don't you may end up working the day j...

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Computer Security, Viruses And Threats

<br /> <p>Today, many people rely on computers to do homework, work, and create or store useful information. Therefore, it is important for the information on the computer to be stored and kept properly. It is also extremely important for people on computers to protect their computer from data loss, misuse, and abuse.</p><p>For example, it is crucial for businesses to keep information they have secure so that hackers can't access the information. Home users also need to take means to make sure that their credit card numbers are secure when they are participating in online transactions. A computer security risk is any action that could cause loss of information, software, data, processing incompatibilities, or cause damage to computer hardware, a lot of these are planned to do damage. An intentional breach in computer security is known as a computer crime which is slightly different from a cybercrime. A cybercrime is known as illegal acts based on the internet and is one of the FBI's top priorities. There are several distinct categories for people that cause cybercrimes, and they are refered to as hacker, cracker, cyberterrorist, cyberextortionist, unethical employee, script kiddie and corporate spy.</p><p>*The Hacker.</p><p>The term hacker was actually known as a good word but now it has a very negative view. A hacker is defined as someone who accesses a computer or computer network unlawfully. They often claim that they do this to find leaks in the security of a network.</p><p>*The Cracker.</p><p>The term cracker has never been associated with something positive this refers to someone how intentionally access a computer or computer network for evil reasons. It's basically an evil hacker. They access it with the intent of destroying, or stealing information. Both crackers and hackers are very advanced with network skills.</p><p>*The Cyberterrorist.</p><p>A cyberterrorist is someone who uses a computer network or the internet to destroy computers for political reasons. It's just like a regular terrorist attack because it requires highly skilled individuals, millions of dollars to implement, and years of planning.</p><p>*The Cyberextortionist.</p><p>The term cyberextortionist refers to someone who uses emails as an offensive force. They would usually send a company a very threatening email stating that they will release some confidential information, exploit a security leak, or launch an attack that will harm a companies network. They will request a paid sum of money to prevent the threat from being carried out, a bit like black mailing.</p><p>*The Unethical Employee.</p><p>An unethical employee is an employee that illegally accesses their company's network for numerous reasons. One could be the money they can get from selling top secret information, or some may be bitter and want revenge.</p><p>*The Script Kiddie.</p><p>A script kiddie is someone who is like a cracker because they may have the intentions of doing harm, but they usually lack the technical skills. They are usually silly teenagers that use prewritten hacking and cracking programs. *The Corporate Spy.<br /><br>A corporate spy has extremely high computer and network skills and is hired to break into a specific computer or computer network to steal or delete data and information. Shady companies hire these type people in a practice known as corporate espionage. They do this to gain an advantage over their competition an illegal practice.</p><p>Business and home users must do their best to protect or safeguard their computers from security risks. The next part of this article will give some pointers to help protect your computer. However, one must remember that there is no one hundred percent guarantee way to protect your computer so becoming more knowledgeable about them is a must during these days.</p><p>When you transfer information over a network it has a high security risk compared to information transmitted in a business network because the administrators usually take some extreme measures to help protect against security risks. Over the internet there is no powerful administrator which makes the risk a lot higher. If your not sure if your computer is vulnerable to a computer risk than you can always use some-type of online security service which is a website that checks your computer for email and Internet vulnerabilities. The company will then give some pointers on how to correct these vulnerabilities. The Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center is a place that can do this. The typical network attacks that puts computers at risk includes viruses, worms, spoofing, Trojan horses, and denial of service attacks. Every unprotected computer is vulnerable to a computer virus which is a potentially harming computer program that infects a computer negatively and altering the way the computer operates without the user's consent. Once the virus is in the computer it can spread throughout infecting other files and potentially damaging the operating system itself. It's similar to a bacteria virus that infects humans because it gets into the body through small openings and can spread to other parts of the body and can cause some damage. The similarity is, the best way to avoid is preparation. A computer worm is a program that repeatedly copies itself and is very similar to a computer virus. However the difference is that a virus needs to attach itself to an executable file and become a part of it. A computer worm doesn't need to do that, it copies itself to other networks and eats up a lot of bandwidth.</p><p>A Trojan Horse named after the famous Greek myth and is used to describe a program that secretly hides and actually looks like a legitimate program but is a fake. A certain action usually triggers the Trojan horse, and unlike viruses and worms it will not replicate itself. Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are all classified as malicious-logic programs which are just programs that deliberately harm a computer. Although these are the common three there are many more variations and it would be almost impossible to list them. You know when a computer is infected by a virus, worm, or Trojan horse if your computer displays one or more of these things:</p><p>* Screen shots of weird messages or pictures appear.</p><p>* You have less available memory than you expected.</p><p>* Music or sounds plays randomly.</p><p>* Files get corrupted.</p><p>* Programs are files don't work properly.</p><p>* Unknown files or programs randomly appear.</p><p>* System properties fluctuate.</p><p>Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses deliver their payload or instructions through three common ways.</p><p>1 - When an individual runs an infected program so if you download a lot of things you should always scan the files before executing, especially executable files.</p><p>2 - When an individual boots a computer with an infected drive, so that is why it's important to not leave removable media in your computer when you shut it down.</p><p>3 - When an unprotected computer connects to a network. Today, a very common way that people get a computer virus, worm, or Trojan horse is when they open up an infected file through an email attachment.</p><p>There are literally thousands of malicious logic programs and new ones come out by the numbers so that's why it's important to keep up to date with new ones that come out each day. Many websites keep track of this. There is no known method for providing 100% protection for any computer or computer network from computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, but people can take several precautions to significantly reduce their chances of being infected by one of those malicious programs. Whenever you start a computer you should have no removable media in the drives. This goes for CD, DVD, and floppy disks. When the computer starts up it tries to execute a boot sector on the drives and even if it's unsuccessful any given virus on the boot sector can infect the computer's hard disk. If you must start the computer using removable media for any reason, such as when the hard disk fails and you are trying to reformat the drive make sure that the disk is not infected.</p><p>How can you protect your computer?</p><p>The best way to protect your computer from any of the above is by using good quality internet securities software. Purchasing this from a reputable security company is recommended to ensure that your software is kept up to date with the most recent virus signatures. If you are not up to date an unrecognised virus will not be stopped by the software. A full security package will protect you from viruses, Worms, Trojan horses, keyloggers and will detect when a hacker is attempting to hack into your computer and prevent them from gaining access when you are online or connected to a network. It is not advisable to use a free antivirus service as these do not provide adequate protection and are a false economy. Recommended internet security software companies are:- Norton, McAfee and others.</p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <p>The author is dedicated to PC security and PC health. See the Error Doctor <a href="http://www.registry-cleaner-magic.com/error-doctor/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">Award Winning Registry Cleaner</a> Software.</p> <br />

Computer Security, Viruses And Threats

Today, many people rely on computers to do homework, work, and create or store useful information. Therefore, it is important for the inf...

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