Accokeek Computers
Computer Security News
This
site is dedicated to providing basic computer security information to
the average user.
Computer
Security: The Basics
When
you bought your
computer, I bet you didn't anticipate it could cause so many headaches.
You got it home, took it out of the box, hooked it up, and
the
problems began. Even to the not-so-novice computer user, bringing a new
system online can be a bit trying.
So
you get everything connected and you hit that infamous 'on/off' button.
If you're lucky,
the machine will boot up and successfully load the factory installed
operating system and applications.
So you've had your fingers crossed
on both hands up to now, everything's worked as you (and the
manufacturer planned)
and you're ready to get online and see what this baby can do.
For awhile you're really impressed, things are lightning
fast.
But slowly, over time, things slow
down. They
slow down to the point you're nodding off waiting for your
email
or
other files to download. That might be ok if you're still connecting
through a slow dial-up account, but many of us have graduated
to
broadband access, and
it's still slow. And it's not just the Internet, it's slow to
do anything.
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You're frustrated, and you fear
viruses and
spyware have invaded your system., and your fears are probably
well
placed. But not to worry, FREE help is available. You'll have to be a
bit
resourceful with Google, Yahoo, or your preferred s e a r c h
e
n g i n e, and
yes it can be a long slow process if your machine is bogged down.
For those of us that manage
computers, servers,
and networks for a living, we tend to forget what it's like to
just
be a end-user. We believe that some internet usage practices
are
not just unsafe, but stupid.
For example, chat and messenger
programs. Back when the internet was in it's infancy, I chatted
everyday, all day
and all night sometimes. We all had slow dialup connections, and almost
none of us had any protections in place. However, the internet was a
different
place 10 years ago. Computer and internet crimes were still
the
exception, not the rule. While that has changed drastically,
our surfing habits have not though.
Chat and messenger programs are
taboo
things in my book, they open huge security holes, even on otherwise
secure
networks, that could allow just about anything to be installed or
infected.
Most users tend to view the internet
as their
oyster, like a giant, virtual playground. They can
do or
find anything, even things they weren't looking for.
They can cross local, regional, and international borders
while
sitting on their bed in their pajamas if they so choose.
They are also very unaware of the
dangers they can and do contact. Their personal information is sucked
right out of their machine and they don't have the first clue it's
happening. A hacker can take over the machine and use it to
commit a crime.
As such
I've written a series of articles designed for the lay person to
understand. My hope is they will gain a better understanding of the
internet and the dangers, and hopefully, protect themselves
accordingly.
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