There can be no assurance of complete security based on the choice of browser used. Each of the more popular browsers has its specific vulnerabilities that can be potentially attacked by malware and viruses. Even software features that are supposed to provide functionality to the chosen web browser may initiate vulnerabilities in a system.
Computer users can use several browsers by assigning one per nature of transaction. It is important however to understand which browser supports a particular feature and their corresponding risks. Each one has to be properly configured so as to minimize possible vulnerabilities. Browsers are typically pre-installed in computers. Owners of newly-acquired computers just need to learn how to securely configure them through documentation provided by vendors. Additional information can be requested from them should the need arises.
The Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) browser is an application that comes with the Microsoft Windows Operating System. Its removal is not recommended primarily due to practicability and its continued leadership in relation to the number of users. Enabling greater security for the web browser can be done through the security tab.
The Mozilla Firefox browser has many features similar to Internet Explorer. There is a specific menu that can help IE users to better understand the difference between the two. Settings for Mozilla Firefox can be edited while the corresponding options for other required changes are provided.
The Google Chrome web browser was first used as a beta version for Microsoft Windows. It has overtaken Mozilla Firefox as second place with the most recent study of worldwide usage share. To date, it has managed to prevent exploitation of whatever security vulnerabilities exists. A recent Accuvant Study ranks Google Chrome first, IE second and Mozilla Firefox third for best browser security.
Tags: securing web browsers, web browser security
Categories: Web browsers
Sometimes, we fail to see the solution because our eyes are too far off from the obvious. A case in point is the protection of our computer and its system from the physical threats that are present in the environment. Before we even think of the the intricate digital barrier we should use to prevent malware and viruses that pervade the online world from entering our system, we should be considering the measures we can use to protect our devices which contain critical information, whether personal or business.
Good old-fashioned protection is not merely placing the computer and other devices under lock and key. It is also about considering who has access to these locks. A high-security risk environment will exactly be such in terms of possible theft or intrusion. It is likewise about protection from the natural elements like water and heat and occurences like power surges and fluctuations.
Visitors are best received away from the regular work area. This prevents potential information thieves from being able to read computer screens, install malware on network devices, or simply being within reach of portable devices that can be stolen without being noticed. Desktop computers that come in individual cases can be locked to prevent tampering of internal hardware.
Physical protection would also entail other sensible and simple acts such as locking the personal account whenever the user needs to step away from the computer and installing security cameras in areas of specific security concern. Not many people are aware that the manner of placement of network cables and equipments can result to a tendency for accidental loss of information. Another important aspect of physical protection is securing the access point for those using wireless networks. Threats can come in all forms but the simplest defense is usually the most important.
Tags: physical protection, Physical Security
Categories: Physical Security
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IT security has always been a concern, but as we move into bigger and better technology, what are the challenges that face us? Technology changes so fast that it isn’t possible to predict exactly how things will go down, but we can prepare for as many eventualities as possible, using current challenges as a stepping stone.
Criminals have always seen the Internet as a possibility for committing more crimes, and that’s not likely to change any time soon. So, we can reasonably expect that cyber crime of all types will increase alongside technology. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: challenges, it, it-security
Categories: General, IT Security Basics
Computer users are fairly familiar with encryption which is basically converting a readable information to what appears to be nonsense. Encryption is directly connected to the study of techniques for securing communication known as cryptology or cryptography. While cryptology aims for protection against adversaries that threaten confidentiality, authenticity, and integrity of data, encryption as we know it prevents unwanted people from getting hold of critical information through computer use. Decryption is about converting incomprehensible messages to their comprehensible form. The adversaries in this case are the cybercriminals who prey on weaknesses of computer passwords and laxness in electronic commerce.
In order to protect themselves, computer users have to maintain a certain degree of secrecy in their activities specifically in granting or withholding their approval for online transactions. Revealing too much personal information could pave the way for unwanted personalities to decipher protected passwords and codes. This is the reason why people are always reminded to be selective of what information to provide and to whom it is provided.
E-commerce usually makes use of the encryption protocol known as the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). This is often seen in URLs starting with “https” instead of the typical “http”. Decryption is facilitated by the use of a “secret key”. Encryption also concerns itself in checking the trustworthiness of the source on any message.
Operating an online business will use e-commerce one way or the other. Encryption has made it possible for online businesses to be conducted. Without any secure means of financial transaction, very few customers will take the risk no matter how tempting the offer.
Tags: cryptology, encryption
Categories: Cryptography
Malware developers have a special place in their hearts for successful and popular systems, platforms and devices. Why this is so is readily understandable. The more successful and popular the target is, the more people are bound to be affected. Also apparently, there is much pride in being able to penetrate what is touted to be secure and impenetrable.
Windows is said to be the king of malware being targeted by thousands of computer contaminants in the form of viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware, crimeware, scareware, and unwelcome adware. Google, Bing, Yahoo,Facebook and Twitter are likewise preferred targets precisely because they are all successful and popular in their own rights. There is a growing consensus that Android is fast becoming the “Windows of Mobileware”, targeted by the same cybercriminals targeting other platforms that have since declined.
Success and popularity as usual have their two sides, attracting patronage and attacks at the same time. Malware attacks users through the very pathways where functionality is obtained which is primarily through the Internet. Traditional protection are not able to stop the effects of more recent malicious attacks. There exists a dilemma in the fact that fiercer malware are spurned faster more than solutions are produced.
In the face of the unrelenting attacks on the most used platforms in spite of best efforts to keep them at bay, consumers are reminded to exercise caution and use common sense in their transactions. Malicious intents always come with offers that are too good to be true. Information requests which are obviously unrelated to the transaction such as getting list of contacts for a game download should never be entertained. Remember that cybercriminals will always be after two things: your money and your personal information.
Tags: Malware Targets, usual targets of malware
Categories: Malware
Wi-Fi is by its nature risky, when the point of view of security is concerned. The person should always be alert when he uses his/her inter connection, and should take good security measure to protect his/her bandwidth from hackers. Wireless network represents a technology with the aid of which one can access all over the planet. Wi-Fi gives a lot of mobility to its user therefore a secured wireless connection is must, to keep your private data safe.
Wireless connection works on radio frequencies. The wireless computer has adaptor which converts its signals to radio waves. The computer router which actually receives signals sends these signals over a hard wired cable that is connected to one’s personal computer. In case a person is unaware his phone calls can be interrupted and may be listen by the unauthorized person.
Read the rest of this entry »
Categories: General
We have been repeatedly forewarned that we should avoid dealing with questionable and unverified sites for any of our online transactions. Much like in the real world where we are told to avoid suspicious-looking characters, we are constantly reminded that online transactions are much safer when done with sites that have proven track records of reliability and consistency.
When you wish to promote your blog, isn’t it a given that it is done in conjunction with respected sites as well. Reliability equates to better security and there is much sense in choosing to be associated with sites that promote quality online presence. In truth, we can practice security even by choosing the sites which our blogs will be associated with.
Blogsearchengine.com is backed up by SplashPress Media Network. It is a site that offers reviews and listings to blogs for the purpose of providing critical exposure and attention that would result to added traffic and relevant links. Its reviews are in depth and are meant to support a blog’s goal to maximize readership and earning potentials.
Membership packages start at the standard rate of $ 14.99 which can be upgraded to the Silver Package for $ 24.99, the Gold Package for $ 59.99, and the Platinum Package for $ 99.99. Those who wish to avail of this important service can simply sign up and pay the required fee which will only take about a minute to complete. Reliable sites complement each other as they work for their respective goals. The reliability of each is reinforced as they join forces to project security to consumers. A single quality link is worth more than a hundred trash links.
Tags: promote your blog, security by association
Categories: General, IT Security Basics
A lot of hackers are entering in the world of internet. Hacker’s use a lot of things like a person’s email id, PC address, password etc. They continuously update themselves with the latest technologies. Therefore people should update themselves also in order to protect their accounts from being hacked. These cyber criminals are increasing in number day-by-day. Your email is very important whether you are a professional, student, or any other. Your email contains a lot of data and needed to be protected as it’s your personal asset.
When it comes to privacy and security one should be full aware of the dangers associated with using internet. Suppose if a spouse wants to inform her husband about the keys then if she is having an easy email-id which can be easily hacked and she is using it, then there is a danger of stealing their household goods. As there id once hacked, it’s very difficult to get it back. Having one’s email encrypted is the first step for email-id protection. There are a number of companies offering such services online; they have latest technology software which can aid a person.
Now the question arises how to protect them? Read the rest of this entry »
Categories: Security Policies
Many people are not aware that they are making it very easy for cyber criminals to invade their privacy. This typically happens when convenience is prioritized over the more critical matter of security. People relax their guard as they choose the easiest path to go about their online transactions. Let’s face it, the use of the Internet is a risk in itself but we multiply that risk when we fail to consider the factors that make us susceptible to fraud and theft.
Protecting our most basic online defenses is a primary concern. User names and passwords are our first line of defense but they tend to be compromised by the tendency to use the same names and passwords for all online transactions. The main problem here is that we make it easy for cyber criminals to penetrate our transactions in the same manner as we give easy access to ourselves. The practice can admittedly save time during the initial stage but the probable resulting loss requires more time and effort to correct. Identity theft can be a traumatic experience both in the physical and emotional aspects.
Cyber criminals are at their work without people realizing it. They are constantly trying to discover passwords by fishing for personal information such as names and dates related to family or work. They can also try to steal passwords saved from memory. They can even be looking into various word and number permutations that will provide them the key to the doors of your private world.
A little effort towards making yourself less predictable to cyber thieves goes a long way. It can be readily understood why some people persist on unsafe online practices especially if they don’t have prior bad experience in transacting online. Due to the sheer amount of information we are encouraged not to put in writing for our own protection, we try to help our memory by choosing letters and numbers that we can easily recall. That is the very weakness which cyber criminals are looking out for.
Tags: cybercrime prevention, Online Safety
Categories: General, Real-World Issues, Tips
The types of jobs and career opportunities for IT professionals are as vast and different as the industry itself. There are many different avenues you can take in the IT world, include the types of job environments and positions. Only one thing is for certain: you’ll probably be working long hours occasionally and you’ll have to work with computers. The rest of your career is up to you. Read the rest of this entry »
Categories: General
