As we are an ever increasing technology based society, we have compiled some terminology along with safe computer practices. Many virus, Spyware and other issues related to damaging software could be avoided by simply using the ideas listed below:
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Viruses
A Virus is a software program which attaches itself to another piece of software. The virus inserts its code into a file which when executed, runs the virus. A boot virus is a program which runs when the computer starts.
Spyware
Spyware is software which works in the background to gather a user's information and behavior. This information is then transmitted to another party. Spyware works in the background without a user's knowledge. Some of the information can include the operating system of the computer, the type of browser, the computer IP address, and where a user browses to.
Trojan
A Trojan is a software program which runs in a computer as a secret agent of the attacker. Trojans do not replicate themselves like Worms or Viruses.
Worm
A worm is a program which replaces files. They can be as destructive as viruses, and like viruses, can replicate themselves.
Browser Hijacking
A browser hijacking occurs when a browser gets sent to a website which is not the user's choosing. Sometimes information gets re-routed to another site without the user's knowledge and makes the internet connection run slower. Hijacks can change a user's homepage.
Spoofing
Spoofing is when an identity is forged. The attackers forge their IP address with the person they want to attack, overloading the victim's internet connection.
Phishing
Phishing happens when a person sends out email masqeurading as a trusted company or person. Typically the email states the user's account information needs to be updated and provides a link to do so. The link redirects the person to a webpage which looks legitimate, but is not, and actually captures confidential information such as credit card numbers, bank accounts and social security numbers.
Adware
Adware is software which directs specific advertisements to you computer. This typically happens after you consent to loading some free software program or browser helper. Adware also tracks your internet browsing and reports this information back to a central server.
Popups
A popup happens when a new browser window opens up on its own. Sometimes so many popup windows can open, they render the computer useless.
Hoax
A hoax is an email stating something untrue. Common hoaxes include virus hoaxes which have the user delete an important file located on their computer.
Spam
Junk email which is usually uncolicited, typically sent to hundreds or thousands of people. Usually attempting to sell items such as drugs or containing pornographic material.
Browser
A browser is a software program that allows a user to access the internet. Examples of browsers are: Internet Explorer, Netscape, and Mozilla Firefox.
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Browser Helper
A browser helper is a computer program that loads every time you start your browser. Browser helpers can include searching features, popup blockers, and spyware.
Cookies
A cookie is information sent to a browser. Cookies can include information such as a user's preferences, shopping cart items, and registration or membership login ID and password.
Firewall
A firewall is a piece of hardware or a software program which protects a computer or network from attacks from intruders and hackers.
Broadband
Broadband refers to a type of internet connection, usually via a cable modem provided by the local cable television provider. Broadband connections are typically very fast and come in a variety of speeds.
DSL
DSL is another type of fast internet connection with speeds that are usually somewhat slower than broadband, but much faster than an ordinary dial-up connection. DSL internet connections are generally provided by area telephone service providers and use your regular home phone jacks for service.
Dos
• Keep your anti-virus program
up-to-date
• Always use a firewall
• Use a safe Internet Browser
• Keep your operating
system up-to-date
• Use a good surge protector or
battery backup
• Always backup your data
• Keep your original software and
license information in a secure
location
• Use parental control software
or content adviser if appropriate
• Create computer accounts for
children which do not have
administrative rights
• Use spam filters or junk
email settings
• Be careful what you subscribe to
• Always check the safe setting
button when using web based
email software
Dont's
• Do not browse the Internet with
an administrative account
• Do not copy or share data or
programs
• Never download software unless
you are absolutely sure it is safe
to do so
• Do not list your email address
on the Internet
• Do not reply to spam messages
battery backup
• Do not click on links contained
within email
• Do not open email attachments
unless you are absolutely sure
they are safe
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