Oct 24, 2011

Computer Security

Computer security has become a hot topic these days thanks to a dramatic increase in cyber crime targeted at both businesses and consumers over the past few years. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) last year received over 2 million consumer complaints involving cybercrimes such as malicious computer intrusions, credit and debit card theft, online fraud and ID theft and predatory behavior targeted at minors. The trend has heightened the need for consumers to take more computer security measures to reduce their exposure to different kinds of criminal activity online.

Consumers Face New Online Security Risks

More consumers than ever before are purchasing things on the Internet and interacting with others via email, chat and social media networks such as Facebook and YouTube. Until even recently, the biggest computer security threat that such users faced was from malicious email-born worms and virus programs that were designed to slow down or sabotage systems but not steal data from them. That has begun changing quite rapidly. Increasingly, many of the malware programs that are targeted at online users are designed to steal personal data, such as credit card and debit card information, bank account details and other data that can be used to commit financial fraud and identity theft.

Phishing, Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

Phishing is one example of a relatively new computer security threat. Phishing is a term that is used to describe attacks in which users are tricked into downloading malicious software on their systems or into giving away their passwords and other details to malicious attackers. Phishing schemes typically involve fake emails that appear to come from a bank or some other organization you are familiar with and which you trust. The emails usually contain attachments which download malware on your system or redirect you to a malicious website when you click on it.

Drive-by-downloads and man-in-the-middle attacks are two other examples of relatively recent computer security threats. A drive-by-download is a type of malicious software program that quietly gets downloaded on your system when you visit sites that are infected with such programs. Often, such malware can be found on websites that offer free screensavers, music or some other free program. A man-in-the middle attack, one the other hand, is one in which an attacker intercepts and manipulates your communications with someone else. For example, in such an attack, you might think you are interacting with your bank whereas you might actually be interacting with an imposter.

Five Simple Steps for Protecting Yourself

Though such threats pose a serious risk, you can take some fairly simple computer security measures to protect yourself.

Make sure that your antivirus software and anti-spyware tools are always updated.

Install all recommended security patches that are issued by vendors. If you use popular Internet browsers, such as Microsoft’s IE or Mozilla’s Firefox, or software such as Adobe’s Acrobat Reader, you will receive periodic notifications about important updates. Make sure you install all of them promptly.

Do not open emails from strangers. Be cautious about clicking on email attachments. Phishing emails can appear very convincing, so be very cautious about opening emails that appear to come from banks or other organizations that you don’t normally do business with.

Always use the latest browser versions. The latest versions of IE, Firefox, Chrome and Opera all have features that warn you when you visit malicious sites or attempt to click on a malicious link.

Avoid going to sites that advertise free software. Most often, spyware programs and other malware programs get downloaded on your system when you install such free programs.

Cybercrime poses a serious security and privacy risk for online users, and identity theft represents one of the highest rising US crime statistics. However, you can protect yourself from most of these threats by taking some fairly simple computer security measures to protect yourself. Some home security companies also offer identity theft and other programs that can protect you from hackers that steal your personal data.

Home Security News

Installing a Home Security System?

Did you know that installing a security system is not only a great way to minimize the risk of a break-in or burglary, but it can also lower your home insurance payments? Insurance companies recognize that homes are indeed more secure when they have a home security system installed by one of the top alarm companies.

TopAlarmCompanies.com offers quotes from only the best, most well known business and home security companies. By working with leading providers like FrontPoint, Vivint, GE, Pinnacle, Smith & Wesson, and, of course, the ADT Security Systems Authorized Dealer Program, we can assure you that we are providing quotes from the highest rated security companies in the business.

Not to mention, these six companies use state-of-the-art technology to keep up with the changing market. Features like wireless alarms and touch screen control panels are what consumers want, and these companies offer them along with expert technicians and a skilled customer support staff.

Protect America has been given a five star rating for four years in a row by TopConsumerReviews.com. With their line of affordable home security packages starting at about $30 and free installation, Protect America is offering home security at a price most Americans can afford.

Vivint is one of the most modern, high-tech home security companies. With services that integrate your security system with energy management and home automation, Vivint makes a compelling, "green" option for people that want a top home security company.

ADT Security Systems - ADT is certainly the largest and most well known security provider. Not only do they work with homes and businesses, but their security services are so sophisticated that government agencies also use them.

Protection 1 trails only ADT in the number of customers it has in the US. And, with 60 branch offices, Protection 1 also has locations in nearly every US state, making them a home and business security company that you can even contact in person if need be.

FrontPoint Security touts that their wireless security systems are "virtually undefeatable." The company also notes that it has no hidden fees, all the while providing modern, high-tech home security features like a security app for your smart phone.

Security Networks boasts an A+ Better Business Bureau rating is just one indication of the great customer service they offer. Making use of services like WeatherNet for alerts on dangerous weather, and IDnet for identity protection, Security Networks truly strives to make all aspects of your life more secure, not just your home.