New Technology Reviews!.: Safety

Twitter to flag NSFW links in tweets

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Twitter has announced that it is incorporating a feature that will notify users if links included in tweets are "possibly sensitive".</div>
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The code for the safety feature is now in the Twitter streaming API, but hasn't been rolled out to actual users yet.</div>
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Twitter's media policy states, "Images that have been marked as containing sensitive content will have a warning message that a viewer must click through before viewing the image. Only users who have opted in to see possibly sensitive content will see these images without the warning message."</div>
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Unmasking Super-Injunction Man</div>
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Twitter has long insisted that it doesn't censor users' tweets, most notably when people took to the micro-blogging service to unmask Ryan Giggs as the person behind a super-injunction that prevented the media from naming him.</div>
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However, the company does "remove media that might be considered sensitive such as nudity, violence or medical procedures".</div>
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But the good news is that the warning will be optional so you can continue living your devil-may-care surprise-link-clicking lifestyle if you wish.</div>
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Twitter to flag NSFW links in tweets

Twitter has announced that it is incorporating a feature that will notify users if links included in tweets are "possibly sensitiv...

Insert Coin: YouTurn accelerometer-based turn signal system for cyclists

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<img alt="" border="1" class="aligncenter" height="229" hspace="4" mce_src="http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/8155/20110730youturn.jpg" mce_style="margin-top: 4px; margin-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid black;" src="http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/8155/20110730youturn.jpg" style="border: 1px solid black; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 4px auto; max-width: 640px;" vspace="4" width="360" />In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.</div>
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Many of us who bike in the city ride in constant fear of being tapped by a taxi cab, or crushed by a bus. There's no way to completely eradicate the risk of being run over by a much larger motorized vehicle, but making yourself easily visible -- both at night and during the day -- can certainly make a difference. Smart cyclists use hand signals long before they need to make a turn, but the YouTurn signal system aims to make those indicators difficult for drivers to miss, with an accelerometer-based gadget that illuminates an arrow in the direction of your turn. If you want to turn left, for example, simply point your hand to the left, and the device will flash a giant yellow chevron. The prototype you'll see in the video below is integrated with a glove, though the final version will simply attach to the back of your hand, and can be stored in a bag when you're not on your bike. There's no mention of durability or waterproofing, though since the inventor's objective is to enhance safety, we imagine he'll be taking precautions to avoid electrocution in the rain.</div>
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YouTurn inventory Jack O'Neal launched a Kickstarter page to help fund his project, and is accepting preorders at $50 a pop. There's no final pricing listed at this point, but at 50 bucks for a first-run YouTurn, we were happy to make the pledge. We hope to see O'Neal meet his funding goal and send these to production, but until then, we'll keep looking both ways and hoping for the best.</div>
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Insert Coin: YouTurn accelerometer-based turn signal system for cyclists

In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a ...

Twitter to flag NSFW links in tweets

Twitter to flag NSFW links in tweets

Twitter has announced that it is incorporating a feature that will notify users if links included in tweets are "possibly sensitiv...

USB Ports - Risks and Safety Precautions

USB might be termed as the latest craze in the industrial computer components industry, but this fashionable accessory can also be a root cause of disaster, if proper precautions are not adhered to. These thumb nail size marvels might be considered as one of the most convenient computer accessory, but it can be a great threat to Internet security as well.The threat involved with the USB ports are the cyber criminals that are writing viruses and worms and thus infecting the USB ports. As soon as the user enters this infected port in the home PC, they can load the bug which can result in crippling the computer hardware. Their small size is one reason that makes them easier to lose and if some important data contained in it is not encrypted, there is chance that the USB ports can be tampered with, resulting in identity theft and other types of cyber crime.This write up throws some light on this sensitive issue, which otherwise gets unnoticed. Following are some of the precautionary measures that can prevent the occurrence of these crimes to a large extent. Follow these tips to minimize the risk of your USB being hacked.1. One of the most reliable way to prevent identification theft is to make sure that you do not load or carry any kind of personal information on the USB products.2. Encryption is an important aspect to be taken care of if you are to put any personal or sensitive data in your USB's. Various reliable encryption programs are available and one only needs to download them. By encryption, one can be sure that the information on the USB cannot be read without being decoded first.3. Using secure devices is another option. Various technologically advanced USB drives have added features like fingerprint authentication and built-in encryption that proves great in making this device hacker-protected. Invest in one of these USB ports that are much more user friendly and safe at the same time.4. Keeping these computer components in a safe place is the most important tip of all. As they are very small, they are at a greater risk of being lost. Choose a USB drop spot which is easier to access and remember. This will ensure that you do not lose them easily.5. If possible, try to keep separate devices for home as well as office purpose as there is a chance that you can accidentally introduce a virus to you home computer courtesy to one of the infected systems at office. As per the New York security consultant, Scudder, it is important to know the norms of any company before plugging your USB to the network.

USB Ports - Risks and Safety Precautions

USB might be termed as the latest craze in the industrial computer components industry, but this fashionable accessory can also be a root...

WakeMate Bursts Into Flames

<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-21826" height="320" src="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/7991/wakemateac540x432638562.jpg" title="wakemate_ac" width="400" /></div>Whoa! The makers of WakeMate have sent out a warning to users that their Android-compatable WakeMate might burst into flames. Ahhh! They’ve sent out this message today saying that the black USB charger bricks included with the product are defective. They say these chargers were sourced through a Chinese vendor and proper certification in the USA was performed – but these thangs are blowing up anyway. Check out the full letter and at least one exploding event via tweet. 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE that the main subject here is the USB charger included with the WakeMate package. It will burst into flames. This is the letter that was sent out to customers very recently: 
 
<blockquote>Hello WakeMate Customer, 
We have just been alerted to a safety issue with our product. The black USB charger bricks that have been included with the product are defective. Do not use them. 
 
The USB chargers were sourced through a Chinese vendor. We paid to have the proper certification and safety tests performed here in the U.S. for the chargers. However, tonight we were informed by a customer of a safety incident with the black USB chargers. Therefore, effective immediately we are recalling ALL USB charger bricks and informing our customers that it is not safe to use these USB chargers to charge your WakeMate. 
 
We will continue to look into the situation but needed to email you immediately to ensure that you stop using and unplug the included Black USB Power Bricks. 
 
We are extremely sorry that we sent a product containing defective components. However, we also want to stress that this issue is with the chargers only, and not with the WakeMate itself. It is still safe to use the included USB cable to charge the WakeMate, and it is safe to wear the WakeMate while sleeping. 
 
I sincerely apologize for this mishap on our part. We are doing everything we can to prevent any further incidents with the USB charger bricks. 
 
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me. 
 
Sincerely,  Arun Gupta CEO, Perfect Third Inc.</blockquote> 
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There is one tweet saying that a device has actually, for real, started on fire. Beyond that, there’s a bit of extra info from the company from a Hacker News thread: 
 
<blockquote>yes the batteries are safe. we believe that the chargers are spitting out a noisy electrical signal, which is causing the battery charger IC on the WakeMate to overheat, thus causing the problem. We have only seen any incidence when the unit is plugged into the black USB charger bricks we shipped with. To date we have logged over 20000 hours of sleep on our system, so we’re certain that sleeping with the Wakemate is safe, and that the batteries on the WakeMates are safe as well. This is in addition to the testing and certification we had done on the unit as well before we began shipping units. 
 
… 
 
We sent this email tonight within an hour of hearing about the first issue. One of our goals as a company is to increase people’s quality of life — starting with sleep. It was immediately apparent to us we had to tell our customers, especially if their safety was at all at risk.</blockquote> 
[<a href="http://www.slashgear.com/wakemate-bursts-into-flames-due-to-issues-with-usb-charger-31122323/" target="other">Via</a> SlashGear]

WakeMate Bursts Into Flames

Whoa! The makers of WakeMate have sent out a warning to users that their Android-compatable WakeMate might burst into flames. Ahhh! They’ve ...

Internet Safety Tips for Kids (and Parents, Employers, and Managers!)

Nowadays, staying safe online has become a never-ending battle - for children as well as adults. Because cybercriminals are becoming smarter and more sophisticated in their operations, they are real threats to your personal security and privacy. Your money, your computer, your family, and your business are all at risk. However, with a little common sense and some knowledge about what to do and not do, one can surf the 'net unscathed. Here is a great set of rules for kids while they are online. I found these rules at safekids.com. Parents, Employers, and Managers, you can take some notes from these rules, too: 1. I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents' work address/telephone number, or the name and location of my school without my parents' permission. 2. I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable. 3. I will never agree to get together with someone I "meet" online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting, I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring my mother or father along. 4. I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parents. 5. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away so that they can contact the service provider. 6. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission. 7. I will not give out my Internet password to anyone (even my best friends) other than my parents. 8. I will check with my parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt our computer or jeopardize my family's privacy 9. I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law. 10. I will help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about the Internet, computers and other technology. Although you may follow the rules religiously, you, your computer, and your family might still be at risk because cybercriminals leave you with three choices: 1. Do nothing and hope their attacks, risks, and threats don't occur on your computer. 2. Do research and get training to protect yourself, your family, and your business. 3. Get professional help to lockdown your system from all their attacks, risks, and threats. Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!

Internet Safety Tips for Kids (and Parents, Employers, and Managers!)

Nowadays, staying safe online has become a never-ending battle - for children as well as adults. Because cybercriminals are becoming smarter...

Public Computer Use Safety Tips

Although most people have personal computers to conduct private business, some people still rely on the use of public computers. There are people out there who actively try to steal identities and sensitive information through computer use. It is recommended that you don't conduct any sensitive personal business on shared computers. However, if this is a necessity, here are a few common sense suggestions to protect you on a public computer. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings - This is good advice anytime you are out in public, but especially when viewing private information in a public space. You never know who might be watching over your shoulder. Just keep an eye out for anyone or anything that looks suspicious. The technology that's now available can allow people to take inconspicuous pictures or video of just about anything these days. Logging In And Logging Out - If you log into a website from a public computer, make sure that you don't save your login information when prompted. When finished with the site that you are visiting, be sure to log out when you are done. This might sound elementary but it is an important security measure. Delete Temporary Internet Files - It is a good idea to delete your browsing history to help protect against compromising secure information. Avoid Using Financial Information - If your Facebook or Twitter account is hacked, it probably would not be as troublesome as somebody stealing your credit card number or bank account information. When using a public computer, avoid any financial transactions if possible. Being cautious and smart with public computer use can help prevent costly problems in the future.

Public Computer Use Safety Tips

Although most people have personal computers to conduct private business, some people still rely on the use of public computers. There are p...

Important Internet Safety Rules for Secure Computing

Do you know that nothing on the Internet is private? Don't get astonished. If you think logically, you will find how true the statement is. The number of cases regarding identity theft and hacking is on the rise. Computer users from across the globe are concerned about their online security. Here come Internet safety rules into the picture. This informs you about some certain guidelines with which you can keep your Internet activities safe and private.Whether you are a businessman, executive, student or a housewife, if you go online it is a must to be aware of Internet Safety Rules. In this article you will find some important rules. For better PC security support, you can always get in touch with a computer repair services company.The computer users must know the importance of using a difficult password. Hackers use different types of password breaking software to break into the user's account. So, to stop their effort, a strong password bears great importance. Remember, the password should not reveal any private information like your telephone number, credit card number, etc.Many a times question is asked what is a strong password. A strong password should comprise upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. You should also change your password in regular interval to protect your account from hacking, phishing and spamming.It is strongly recommended not to access sensitive information like bank accounts through a public computer. If necessity arises, do make sure that you have signed out and closed all tabs when you are done.Social networking has become hugely popular in the recent times. More and more computer users are logging in different social networking sites and the hackers are exploiting the ignorant users. To avoid falling prey to them make sure your Internet privacy settings are in place on all your social networking sites.You should not divulge your private information like your address, phone numbers, and credit card numbers alike on internet by any means. It is also recommended to avoid all the chat rooms that deal with sex, violence and drugs. Most of the times, hackers take the advantage of these sites.Last but not the least, to protect your computer you must install a powerful and authentic anti-virus, anti-spy and anti-malware software. If you are using Windows operating system, make sure the Windows Firewall is turned on. It acts as a filter and blocks intruders from the network. You can also go for a third party firewall for better protection.To save yourself from the hackers and at the same time to enjoy all the benefits of technology, you must follow all the above mentioned Internet Safety Rules.	 	 		 			 				 					 						For secure computing, you can get in touch with a <a href="http://www.mytechsupportstore.com/remote-computer-support.html" rel="nofollow" target="_new">remote computer support</a> provider. There are many <a href="http://www.mytechsupportstore.com/pc-support.html" rel="nofollow" target="_new">PC support</a> service providers that offer PC security support at a very reasonable cost.

Important Internet Safety Rules for Secure Computing

Do you know that nothing on the Internet is private? Don't get astonished. If you think logically, you will find how true the stateme...

Importance of Safety and Security on the Internet

Internet security is meant for guaranteeing the safety and security of data saved in the computers of the surfers. These days it is not difficult to hack people's accounts and peep inside the computers. This uncomplicated task has made things worse and data saved inside the computers endangered. How would you feel, if someone anonymous to you knows every detail of your secret projects and your ban accounts. You will obviously feel unsafe and will take up steps to ensure higher security. Every computer and laptop, today, is at risk of being hacked, and every individual who surfs the internet is at a peril of being devastated.It is quite apparent, if others get hold of information priceless to you, then they will naturally try to take the benefit out of it. Hackers and internet goons might not take out full advantage of it, but once the information is in other's hand, your life is ruined. This is why people are trying to get hold of the smartest and the finest security software, so that they can enhance the levels of their security while they working online. If you will follow the points mentioned below, then you will surely increase your security levels. Your first step will be to opt for an Internet Service Provider, which filters spam, content and viruses. This will ensure good safety. In case you do not have many choices for the ISP, then you can buy software and online services for performing the same task of filtering unwanted spam. Router is another technique which increases internet security. In this NAT is used. NAT is Network Address Translation technique. This technique allows connections which are made out of the computer but does not give access to items which tries to make connections inside. It does not charge much, but ensures high security to computers. Firewall is the third security provider, which can ensure a better security. If you activate firewall in your PC, then it will not let any virus, Trojan or malware to enter and destroy your PC. Mostly people run a firewall in their personal computers for protecting it from threats. Anti Viruses also ensure heightened security. It deletes all the viruses and restricts any further entry. It is the most common internet security tool and also one of the most effective.Now that you are very well aware of the importance of internet security, it is advised that you take necessary steps for increasing the levels of internet security on your personal computers. Increasing internet security will not only protect your PC from any attack of viruses and malwares, but will also keep all your important files and information secured. It is very important that you take such steps so that no one is able to take your advantage. Become a smart internet user and make the best use of internet security tools available with us today.	 	 		 			 				 					 						Free tips, tricks and solutions that finally show you how to get more from your efforts on <a href="http://www.privacycontrolsoftware.com" target="_new">increasing internet security</a>. Get this revolutionary information here: <a href="http://www.privacycontrolsoftware.com" target="_new">http://www.privacycontrolsoftware.com</a>.

Importance of Safety and Security on the Internet

Internet security is meant for guaranteeing the safety and security of data saved in the computers of the surfers. These days it is not d...

Security and Safety Issue in VTiger CRM

vTiger CRM is an online, web-based system which is convenient for centralized data storage, easy to access and share information among members of the enterprise. Also, this results issues in information safety. The deployment of such systems requires a sufficient and comprehensive approach of information safety: human resources, policies, process, technique and legal issue.Notes:Information safety is a larger concept than information security. It includes rules/settings to ensure that users can access the right information anytime they want, and to prevent the system from various risks. These rules/settings relates to information storage and recovery function, authorization and access management, loss prevention, information security in storage and transfer etc.vTiger CRM itself can well monitor those functions. Some other monitors (e.g.: Human resources) will involve company policies and method of system deployment:About vTiger CRM:- Authorization: On Database or LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol)- Access management: by individual, by group, or by profile.- Sharing Access: concrete to each role, feature, level (view, edit, delete)- Inspection: Record user's activities (Login History, Audit Trails)- Backup: A mechanism to easily backup- Program errors: The application has been developed and experimented to cope with popular hacking methods. Patches related to security are provided whenever an error is found by community.Methods of deployment and using:a) There must be clear policy and procedure about information safety related to deployment, operation and using the Information Technology system in general, and CRM [http://www.softwareoutsourcing.biz/CustomerCRM.html] application in particular.E.g.:• Rules to set, remember and change (periodically) passwords• Assign staff to be responsible for installation, operation, issue settlement.• Make plan to deal with accidents or incidents when they occur.b) Human resources (IT Admin) must have experience in managing and monitoring safety of network and application system (especially web-based applications)c) Server:• Location: Server must be separately located, only authorized staffs can have access.• Use the Operating System with high level of sustainability and safety, hardened properly (e.g.: Turn off unnecessary services, set up firewall, close ports, turn off or only allow access from fixed IP etc.)• Setting up anti-virus programd) Range of access: Public Internet - through VPN - only in LANe) Applications, <a href="http://www.softwareoutsourcing.biz" rel="nofollow" target="_new">software</a>s:• Use the official versions from reliable resources• Frequently monitor and upgrade or apply patches related to securityf) Configuration:• Assign users by roles, responsibility as well as policy and rules of the enterprise• Establish data backup mechanism: back up online, off-line, off-site or backup by coding the data.g) Operation monitoring• Implement backup• Grant and disable user accounts• Monitor and detect activities affecting safety of system and data (intentionally or unintentionally)	 	 		 			 				 					 						Tom Downie is working for a company that provides IT <a href="http://www.softwareoutsourcing.biz" target="_new">outsourcing services</a> including application development and software outsourcing. If you want to know more about his work, visit the website: software outsourcing to see how he can optimize your business.

Security and Safety Issue in VTiger CRM

vTiger CRM is an online, web-based system which is convenient for centralized data storage, easy to access and share information among me...

Online Safety Tips - Where Hackers Like to Hide

The main goal of any hacker is to get some personal information or to use PC resources to send spam and viruses. I guess you have already got some viruses on your PC and, of course, any of us reinstalled Windows at least once because system efficiency became very slow. That is the result of viruses.So, how hackers deliver viruses to your PC?You always know how, but never follow simple rules:1) Do not visit URLs that you receive through IM or Email messages (even from friends, colleagues and family members). Make sure that they have sent you that first.2) Do not surf the sites with illegal content (adult sites, warez sites, etc.). It is much safer to order a paid product to escape problems with your Personal Information identity in future.3) Never download unknown files from the Internet because they can contain a for your antivirus software virus. It will not scan it and your PC will be infected.Recently, US specialists (CRN group and some others) found out that hackers can use VoIP services to hide Dos-attacks. Thousands of infected PCs transfer tons of traffic to a particular server very fast. The aim is to reboot it or to turn if off.The technology of VoIP services cannot be blocked by firewall of ISP that is why this is a high effective method for nowadays. Usually hackers use IM protocols for such purposes.Millions of people receive ICQ spam daily. This is the most widespread method that spammers use to deliver ads. But hackers use this technology too, so you should be very careful as it can contain a virus. While spammers just send advertisement messages, hackers in their turn send friendly texts to hook the attention of the user.Today, there are no any effective techniques to fight ICQ spam for full. You just may use different spam filters that are usually not effective at all. So, the best way to protect yourself from viruses and identity theft is to keep an eye open for the content in your messages. Check it twice before replying.So, where are hackers like to hide? In ICQ messages, in Skype and Vonage. They love all new technologies that are not secured in a proper way.All in all, hackers hack only those who are not prepared for their visit. So, be armed at all points and surf the Internet easily and freely.	 	 		 			 				 					 						Stephen Ward is writing in the Internet for more than 4 years and would like to suggest you to try out brand new <a href="http://www.smarthide.com" target="_new">Hide IP</a> software that can help you to be sure online 24 hours a day.

Online Safety Tips - Where Hackers Like to Hide

The main goal of any hacker is to get some personal information or to use PC resources to send spam and viruses. I guess you have already...

Online Safety and Identity Theft

In recent years, identity thieves have used technology to steal information. They have resorted to hacking company databases, sending emails with spy ware, embedding spy ware and viruses to websites and so on. So, how do you protect yourself from falling prey to identity thieves by using your computer? Read further.Spyware is software designed to get into your computer, stay there and gather information like the websites you visit, your email address and the email addresses in your contacts and so on. How do you protect yourself from spyware? The first rule of spyware protection is by being careful what you download to your computer. Be very wary of free applications available online. Not all of them have spyware but you need to be careful when you download them. Never open emails from people you don't know or people with misspelled email addresses and full names. These emails may contain spyware and all you need is to click on them to inform the identity thief that your email is active and is ready for attack. Sometimes these emails will contain will contain attachment like sexy pictures of your favorite actress and so on. This attachment is most likely spyware and once downloaded will be active on your computer. Make sure you scan your computer for spyware at least once a week.You may also want to look into using a different browser. The most popular browser on the internet is Internet Explorer because it comes preinstalled on most computers worldwide. It is then not a surprise that in identity theft, opportunists target this browser when designing their spyware and viruses. Try looking at Mozilla Firefox, Opera or Google Chrome as alternate browsers that you can use when visiting websites you do not frequent.You can also protect your real email address by opening an alternate email account. You can use this account for correspondence with entities and organizations that you do not fully trust. You can also use this for online transactions like online shopping or for signing up for websites or forums. This will ensure that your real email address is left only for interaction with people and organizations that you fully trust.The internet is a good communication tool. There is also a big number of information available online. But there are also people who are online to do damage to others for personal gain, so protect yourself from identity theft.	 	 		 			 				 					 						Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of identity theft.For more advice and information on <a href="http://creditmonitoringtrial.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">credit monitoring trial</a> and <a href="http://creditprotectioncompanies.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">credit protection company</a>, just click on these links.

Online Safety and Identity Theft

In recent years, identity thieves have used technology to steal information. They have resorted to hacking company databases, sending ema...

USB Ports - Risks and Safety Precautions

USB Ports - Risks and Safety Precautions

USB might be termed as the latest craze in the industrial computer components industry, but this fashionable accessory can also be a root...

Computer Safety for Kids

Start With the Basics - Protect Your PCGuarding Access to Your PC - Get a FirewallBeginning in the Zhou Dynasty, which was in the 11th century BC, construction was begun on what was to become the Great Wall of China. For 2,700 years, culminating in the mid-1600s, construction continued on the wall until it stretched 4,163 miles from east to west China. The wall was constructed to prevent invasion by other states of China and outer tribes.When you connect your PC to the Internet either through cable, dial-up, or DSL, it is like China prior to the Great Wall. Anyone can invade your PC, and plunder, pillage, and destroy content on your PC. A firewall acts just like the Great Wall of China. When installed, it acts as a barrier between your PC and the outside world. It prevents unwanted and unauthorized access to your PC over your Internet connection.Firewalls come in two basic forms: Hardware firewalls - hardware firewalls are a piece of hardware, like a PC, that gets installed between your PC and your Internet connection. Literally, a cable from your cable or DSL modem gets connected to the hardware firewall. Another cable is connected from the hardware firewall to your PC. When done, the hardware firewall acts as a barrier between your PC and the Internet. It lets you get out to the Internet, but it does not allow unauthorized access from the Internet to your PC. Many cable, DSL, and wireless routers/switches have firewalls built into them. Software firewalls - A software firewall serves the same purpose as a hardware firewall. It, however, is software that gets installed directly onto your PC. The software monitors all inbound and outbound Internet traffic, and creates a software barrier between the Internet port into your PC and everything else on your PC. Once installed, it lets you get out to the Internet, but it does not allow unauthorized access from the Internet to your PC. Software firewalls have an advantage in that they can implement rigid controls over what software installed on your PC will be allowed to access the Internet. Many people use both a hardware firewall and a software firewall. It is similar to having a fence to protect access to your yard, and then a front door to protect access to your house. Everyone should use at least one firewall, hardware or software. If you have a laptop, you should use a software firewall. That way the firewall goes with you, wherever you go, protecting your PC. Find more information on software firewalls here. Find more information on free software firewalls here. Plug the Holes - Make Sure to Download Operating System Updates and PatchesBy now, the security holes and flaws in Windows have become legendary. To their credit, Microsoft publishes a steady stream of fixes, patches, and update releases to plug all known security holes, flaws, and problems. In order for your PC to benefit from these patches and updates, you must, at a minimum, download and install the critical security updates that Microsoft makes available. You can do this one of two ways: You may download and install them manually by visiting the "Microsoft Update" link on the Microsoft web site. For newer versions of Windows, such as Windows XP, you can turn on the "Automatic Updates" feature of the operating system and allow the updates to be downloaded and installed automatically. Either method works well. The "Automatic Updates" route takes the thought and work out of the process. Regardless of which method you choose, the important thing is to keep Windows up to date. Out of date versions of Windows can leave your PC open to hackers and viruses.If you are using Mac OS or LINUX, then none of this applies. You are already using inherently more secure operating systems. It is still, however, important to install updates and patches to these operating systems as well to be up to date and to provide the best protection against unwanted intrusion.Take Your Medicine - Install Antivirus SoftwareA computer virus is an unwanted software program that: Gets loaded onto your PC Replicates itself, meaning that it copies itself and distributes itself to other computers A virus can get onto your computer from any of several sources, including: From a removable disk From an attachment to an e-mail message From a download while surfing the web From a worm through a known hole or flaw in your operating system Once on your PC, the impact of a virus can range from relatively benign to rendering your PC unusable.Antivirus software is software that you use to protect yourself from computer viruses. It can detect and remove known computer viruses. There are many excellent antivirus packages available that are relatively inexpensive. There are also several excellent antivirus packages available for free for home, non-commercial use. Find more information on antivirus packages here Find more information on free antivirus packages here To prevent viruses form being able to harm your PC, you need to select one of the antivirus packages and install it on your PC.TIPS: Make sure that your antivirus software is setup to: Automatically check for updates so that its' virus definitions database is up to date and you are protected from the latest threats. Most updates are provided on an annual subscription basis. Make sure that you renew your subscription when it expires. Free products, such as AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition, provide the updates at no cost. Automatically perform a virus scan at least once a week. If the PC is used to surf the web extensively then you may wish to perform virus scans more frequently, even once a day. Stop the Spies - Install Anti-Spyware SoftwareAdware is any software that displays advertisements on your computer screen, either through banner advertisements within an application, or through pop-up windows. Spyware, which may also be known as a spybot, or tracking software, is computer technology installed on an individual's PC that gathers information about them and their computer use. Adware and spyware removal software, or anti-spyware software, is software that is installed on your computer to combat the threats of adware and spyware. It will search your computer's memory, file system, system registry, and browser caches for the existence of adware and spyware. It will then remove or quarantine any items that it finds. Adware and spyware removal software may also monitor for, and actively block, the downloading of spyware applications.There are two excellent anti-spyware programs available for free, Ad-Aware SE Personal from Lavasoft, and Spybot Search & Destroy from Safer Networking Ltd. There are also many excellent anti-spyware packages that range in price from $19.95 to $39.95. Select and install one of these packages and run it on a regular basis. Find more information on anti-spyware packages here Find more information on free anti-spyware packages here To prevent adware and spyware from being able to gather information about you, you need to select one of the anti-spyware packages and install it on your PC.TIPS: Similar to antivirus software, make sure that your anti-spyware software is setup to: Automatically check for updates so that its' adware/spyware definitions database is up to date and you are protected from the latest threats. The two free packages, Ad-Aware and Spybot do not have automatic update features, so you will need to perform this task manually. Ad-Aware at least tells you that your definitions database is getting old and asks you if you want to update it. Automatically perform an adware/spyware scan at least once a week. If the PC is used to surf the web extensively then you may wish to perform scans more frequently, even once a day. Ad-Aware SE Personal will only run automatically at system startup time. If you leave your computer on all of the time then you will have to remember to manually run the scans. Spybot can be scheduled to run automatically as one of its "Advanced Mode" features. Spring Cleaning - Think About Privacy SoftwareAs you use your computer, and surf the web, traces of your activity get left behind, stored on your computer in lists, temporary files, and caches. The best case is that these "leftovers" can clutter up your PC, and, with time, degrade its performance. The worst case is that someone who gains unauthorized access to your PC can read these files and learn a fair amount about you, potentially helping them to steal your identity.Privacy software removes all traces of your PC and Internet activity, helping to protect your privacy.As with antivirus software and anti-spyware software, privacy software should be run on a regular basis. It, too, can be setup to run automatically on a regular basis so that an end-user does not have to do anything to protect their privacy. The first time the privacy software is run it is not at all uncommon for it to recover in excess of 500MB of disk space by deleting the "leftover stuff" on your PC.To prevent unauthorized intruders from being able to gather information about you, select one of the privacy packages and install it on your PC.Think Before You Click - Use Some Common SenseA little common sense can go a long way when trying to protect your PC. Most of what can compromise your security will come through e-mail, or when you are surfing the web. Because of this, you definitely need to think before you click. If you have not realized it already, most unsolicited e-mail is garbage. No matter how good the offer may sound, the common sense rule of "if it sounds too good to be true, it is..." applies. Most of what you receive unsolicited is designed to scam you out of money, to trick you into divulging private information, to install spyware and adware on your computer, or to install viruses on your computer.Identifying Suspect E-MailsSo how do you identify the bad "stuff"? It actually is fairly easy to identify "suspect" e-mails. Common bad or suspect e-mails include: E-mails from people or companies with whom you have never corresponded or conducted business. You may receive e-mails that you need to verify your account information from a company that you do not do business with. You may receive a message that looks like it is from eBay that says they are going to shut off your account and you have never done business with eBay. Individuals and groups trying to perpetrate fraud will go to great lengths to try to look like a legitimate business. You need to use common sense. If it does not "feel" right, it probably is not. E-mails with gibberish in the title or in the body of the message. E-mails from friends, relatives, or business associates that do not make any sense. E-mails from yourself that you never sent or e-mails that are "returned" to you from someone that you have never corresponded with. This list can go on forever with the many subtle variations. The bottom line is that if it does not feel right then consider it to be a bad e-mail.Suspect e-mails should be deleted. Never click on links in suspect e-mails. Never open file attachments to suspect e-mails. Never reply or forward suspect e-mails. Simply delete them and move on.Safe SurfingInstalling firewall software and antivirus software, and running anti-spyware software and privacy software should go a long way to protecting you when your are surfing. Here, again, some common sense applies. Avoid sites that do not "feel" right. Sites that are constantly trying to get you to fill out forms before you have much of a chance to learn anything about the site and the organization who owns the site are highly suspect. Pornography sites are famous for downloading spyware and viruses onto people's computers. Stick to sites you know, the sites of reputable companies, and sites that come recommended by people you trust and you should be okay.Protecting Your KidsNow that you have taken care of the basics and protected you PC, it is time to specifically worry about keeping your kids safe. When trying to protect your children, it is important to: Set expectations Monitor and control what your children do online Use some common sense Setting Online ExpectationsIt is important for you as a parent to be clear with your children what you expect of them when they are using the PC. You need to be clear about what you consider to be appropriate online behavior, as well as what is and is not appropriate to be accessing online. Children should be taught: That they should never give out personal information such as their name, address, e-mail address, phone number, or age to anyone over the Internet without your express permission. That they should never fill out forms without your permission. That they should tell you if they come across anything or anyone online that they feel is not appropriate or that makes them uncomfortable. That they should ask before downloading or installing software on a PC. That they should never, under any circumstances, arrange to meet alone with someone who they have met online. This can be especially important for your teenage children who may feel that they have met the boy or girl of their dreams online. If they feel that they absolutely must meet this individual, then they should arrange to do it with a responsible adult present. You should remind them that it is very easy for someone to masquerade as someone else online. Monitor and Control What Your Children Do OnlineThe PC that your children use should be setup in a public location where it is easy for you to monitor what your children are doing. It is very difficult for a child to engage in questionable online activities when everyone in the family can easily look over their shoulder. If you have children who participate in chat rooms or use instant messaging software you should regularly ask them who they are communicating with. If they are evasive or do not tell you, take away their computer privileges. Having a safe mad child is better than having an unsafe happy one.There is also software that can help parents protect their children. Software to help keep children safe comes in two forms: monitoring software, and parental control software.Monitoring software allows parents to monitor activity on the family PC. Many packages will allow you to monitor computer activity including web surfing activity, e-mail messages, chat, and instant messaging. Some software will even allow screen shots to be taken at predetermined increments of time. Many of these packages will operate in stealth mode, meaning that no one will know that the software is even installed and running. Of course telling your children that you have software that is monitoring their activity may also act a a deterrent. Monitoring software typically does not filter out any bad content. It simply lets you know if someone is accessing things that are inappropriate.Parental control software, or Internet filtering software, allows parents to control content that is displayed and block specific web sites. Some filtering software will filter e-mails and chat rooms, block pop ups, and even monitor chat rooms. This software is, by its very nature, more intrusive than monitoring software. It will filter out a lot of bad stuff. It may also miss some bad stuff. It may also filter out some good things.The choice of which software to use will come down to personal preference. Some parents use both. If you choose to use no software than having the family PC in a public place and asking questions about what your children are doing online becomes much more important.Use Some Common SenseYou should be aware if your child becomes secretive about what they are doing online. Averting a computer monitor, or quickly turning it off whenever someone walks into the room is not normal computer behavior. It is, however, the behavior of an individual who is trying to hide something. If your child is exhibiting "odd" computer behavior question them. If you get no answers or you do not like the answers, take away their computer privileges and/or get software that monitors their activity. As has already been stated, a mad safe child is better than a happy unsafe one.	 	 		 			 				 					 						<a href="http://www.robpirozzi.com" target="_new">Rob Pirozzi</A> is a freelance writer who provides timely, quality professional writing of all types. He is also the publisher of the web site <a href="http://www.nuttyaboutsports.com/" target="_new">NuttyAboutSports.com</A>, a web site dedicated to fans of popular North American Sports, including baseball, basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse, motor sports, softball, soccer, and tennis!

Computer Safety for Kids

Start With the Basics - Protect Your PC Guarding Access to Your PC - Get a Firewall Beginning in the Zhou Dynasty, which was in the 11th ...