Safe Computing Habits
In order to effectively protect your computer, you need to take a layered approach to security. Some of the layers that should be addressed are:
- Operating System Updates/Patches
Protect your computer against the latest vulnerabilities by applying the latest patches. For Windows users, Microsoft offers a "Windows Update" feature to ensure that you have installed the latest updates. Hackers use these exploits because they know that people fail to keep their systems patched. The SQLSlammer, Code Red, Nimda and Blaster threats are a perfect example of this. Microsoft, Apple and most Linux distributions offer an easy way to keep your OS up-to-date.
- Browser/E-mail/Plug-in Patches
Keep your internet applications up-to-date. Vulnerabilities are constantly being uncovered in web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Netscape and Firefox, as well as in e-mail clients such as Eudora and Outlook Express. Check the vendor's website to make sure that you are running the latest version of their software and have applied all updates and patches. Be aware that viruses also spread by Instant Messengers like AIM and MS Messenger.
- Anti-virus Software
Install anti-virus software on your computer and keep the definitions up-to-date. Definitions that are older than 1 week could leave you vulnerable to an infection.
- Anti-Spyware Software
Some "free" software includes additional software that can "spy" on the surfing habits of the computer user. Read the End-User License Agreement (“EULA”) very carefully before installing any software. Be sure to install anti-spyware software such as Microsoft Antispyware, Adaware and Spybot – Search & Destroy.
- File-Sharing Software
File-sharing software is also another way for hackers to enter your computer system. Only accept files from known, trusted sources.
- Personal Firewall Software
Install a personal firewall to protect against unauthorized inbound or outbound internet traffic.
- Common Sense
This is the big one. We all know that curiosity killed the cat. Well, curiosity also causes viruses to be spread and computers to be hacked. Although the saying that "one shouldn't open attachments from unknown sources" is probably a wise one, most viruses are received from people you do know. The best advice is this: - DO NOT OPEN ANY UNSOLICITED ATTACHMENT. EVER.
- If you didn't ask for it, do one of the following:
- Send an e-mail back to the sender verifying that they intended to send you the e-mail
- Delete it
Failing to address even one of the above layers leaves you susceptible to infection or intrusion.