Share it !
In today's environment, millions of people rely on computers to do business, homework, and to dispatch information to others. It is therefore very important to secure the information that we have on our computers. If you are using a computer exclusively, it is your duty to do all you can to reduce computer risks, prevent data loss, and to reduce computer abuse. In the business world, data protection is paramount because a company's data is fast becoming one of the most value asset that any company owns. Keeping your electronic data secure from hackers is therefore most important.
A computer security risk is any action, deliberate or otherwise that could cause lost of information, damage to critical software, or data corruption. Computer security risks also extend to program incompatibilities, or computer hardware obsolescence. Many instances of computer loss or computer damage are planned and are therefore not accidental. Any intentional breach in computer security is said to be a computer crime which is slightly different from a cyber crime. A cyber crime is really an illegal act perpetrated through the Internet, whereas a computer crime will be any illegal behaviour which involves the use of a computer.
There are several distinct groups of people involved in computer crimes and understanding who they are is important. The most popular form of criminal computer acts is broadly known as hacking. In this case, a person uses a network or the Internet to gain illegal access to a computer. Hackers too, have gained much notoriety over the last 10 years because they are seen as representing people who are in rebellion against the systems of society. Some of the more recent names assigned to people posing computer security risks are cracker, cyber-terrorist, cyber-extortionist, unethical employee, script kiddie and corporate spies.
The term hacker was actually used in reference to ordinary people with the ability to break into computer systems legally. However, with the wide-spread use of the Internet, a hacker has now become known for illegal actions. A hacker is defined as someone who accesses a computer or computer network unlawfully. They often claim that they do this to find leaks in the security of a network. Recent developments in computer programming have spawned the term Ethical Hacking. This is an IT-related term for posing as a thief to catch loopholes in your own computer systems. The term cracker has never been associated with something positive this refers to someone how intentionally access a computer or computer network for unlawful or unethical purposes.
A cyber-terrorist is someone who uses a computer network or the internet to destroy computers, websites, or systems for political reasons. The intention here is to cause harm to important systems such as a banking system or a military computer network in order to score political points. Unlike a regular terrorist attack, cyber-terrorism require highly skilled individuals, thousands of dollars to implement, and many months of planning. The term cyber extortionist is used to refer to someone who uses emails or other electronic communication media as an offensive weapon. As an example of this, a cyber-terrorist can access a web-based database, confiscate it, and erase other available copies. They can then demand a ransom for the release of this information.
They could carry out their illegal act by doing other things such as sending a company a very threatening email. The information they may have could be trade secrets, company data, or even personal information about one of the senior officers of the company. By demanding a ransom for not releasing such information through the Internet, they are participating in cyber-terrorism against the company or persons.
Many computer security risks are related directly to disgruntled employees. It is for this reason why many of the top companies in the USA have adopted sections of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Executives of each public company must take personal responsibility for the security of a company's data in addition to truthfulness in accounting practice. All stake-holders must be assured that the data which a company has about a person such as credit cards must be secure at all times. As the Internet grows, only time will tell what other measures will become necessary to reduce computer risk, thwart cyber-terrorism, and mitigate against the impact of hackers and crackers all over the globe.
Anthony writes technology and protecting your computer from online attacks, at: computer risks and writes on many other fascinating subjects as well. Visit him to learn the latest trends, in motivation, personal development. See his fast-rising working from home blog.
Spyware and malware can shut down your computer life. It can destroy your desktop and cause you no end of stress and damage. The simpler forms of adware can irritate you at most, the simple forms of spyware can collect data about you, what sites you visit, what programs you use, etc. Malicious spyware can trace the keystrokes of your keyboard and steal information right off of your desktop. Spyware has been known to ruin businesses, facilitate identity theft and the ensuing theft of money in your online bank accounts, PayPal, etc. There is not much you can do when you have been the victim of cyber crime, but there is a lot you can do to make sure it does not happen again. Protect your computer and do not be the next victim of spyware, adware, and malicious software.
There are a variety of very strong spyware removal products that are commercially available to help you protect yourself from cyber crime. These days with wireless internet connections, your computer is probably on the internet from the time you turn it on to the time you shut it down at night. Anytime your computer is connected to the web, you could be at risk. Adware Spyware removal tools can help to clean your computer from unwanted risks, protect your computer from websites that automatically download data onto your computer, as well as real time cyber attacks.
There are many free anti spyware products on the internet that promise you protection from malicious software. Many of these programs hardly do a thing for your computer. To make sure you are really protected from the bad guys on the internet, you have to have bigger friends than free software geeks. Here are three reasons you should by the best spyware removal programs from the big boys.
Better funded research - For one, big boys like Norton have enormous budgets and large teams for research. Proper research can mean the difference between a security breach and tight PC internet safety. With new viruses being discovered almost every day, it takes a large team to be able to find ways of blocking them and keeping you and your information secure.
Cleaner, faster software - The software engineers from larger corporations that specialize in PC security are good at making sleep software that works well with various computers. Whether you use windows or have a Mac, there will be fixes that allow the program to work seamlessly on your computer. Too many small programs have a bulky interface that interrupts other program functions. With sleeker faster programming you can still achieve maximum computer speed.
Protects against real time threats - Many free protection companies do not protect against real time internet threats. Norton and other big malware protection programs help to stop websites that are deliberately hurting your computer or uploading malicious software to your computer. Stop internet criminals by determining that you are not going to be the victim of cyber crime.
Rich Vial is a webmaster for Spyware Removal & Adware Spyware Removal visit: urspywareremoval.com
It is very obvious that more people are using computers these days and more people are on the web on daily basis. For this reason most computer users are now increasingly concerned with web safety. Computer safety tips are sought after more and more. The predominant availability of personal computers and connections to the internet provides most people with around the clock access to information, financial services, and shopping. The World Wide Web is also an amazing tool for educators and students to communicate and learn. However, this frequent use of computer brings out more and more hackers and con artists and requires that web users observe some essential tips on how to protect their computer.
It is so unfortunate that certain individuals take advantage of the Internet to perpetrate criminal activities. As with any new technology, there are always individuals prepared to exploit this great new technology illegally for personal gain. Hackers can try to gain illegal access to your computer and then utilize that login to take over your identity, defraud you, or even launch internet attacks against other web users. By following the preferred computer safety tips outlined below, you can minimize the harm cyber hackers can do not only to your computer, but to many other people's computer.
Unfortunately, there is not a single computer security method or technological solution that will eliminate online crime. These generally accepted computer safety tips highlight that using practices that include Internet habits as well as technological solutions can make a difference. Technical solutions (software) are increasingly necessary and cannot be eliminated with just good practices.
The following recommended computer safety tips will to some extent help you protect your computer from unauthorized access.
1 whenever you're online or offline try to protect your private information. Make sure you know who you're communicating with on the internet. Especially when you are in a chat room. Do not give out your password, social security number, and credit card number.
2 Remember the web is like a shopping mall where any body can enter. Protect your computer with the use of anti-virus software, a firewall, and anti-spyware software to ensure your computer is protected and secure.
3 Be sure that you do regular update of your computer.
4 Be sure to use very strong passwords to protect your information. Do not use your nickname or your surname. When using numbers, do not use your birthday.
5 Do not forget to back up critical files.
Owaduge Olumide is a writer. He writes on health and other sundry issues. You can get more of his views here: http://olempe.blogspot.com/
On the other hand phishers are facing threat from whalers, who attempt to gain access to online databases, where phishers store the stolen information by using a tool called autowhaler. The tool allows whalers to search common Phishing URLs, where phishers hide their login credentials. Recently, security researchers at GFI Labs identified a unique tool termed as '666 autowhaler'. When a whaler downloads the tool, they inadvertently download a Trojan designed to extract login credentials. The detection again reveals the vicious nature of cybercrime world.
Internet users must be wary of e-mails seeking login credentials or suggesting reconfiguration of e-mail clients. Phishing e-mails attempt to deceive users into compromising sensitive information by urging prompt action and spoofing the e-mail address to make them appear as coming from a legitimate source. They may also spoof the links in the e-mail to make them appear as a web address of a legitimate company. As such, they must prefer visiting a website by typing the web address rather than following a link on Instant Messengers (IMs), Internet Relay Chat (IRC) or e-mail addresses. Cyber security training programs and online degree programs may help users in improving their online computing practices. They may also report fraudulent e-mails to respective legitimate companies or concerned regulatory authorities in their country. Such attempts will help organizations and regulatory agencies to initiate appropriate action and prevent other Internet users from falling prey to fraudulent scams.
E-mail clients help employees to manage and organize their e-mails. Phishers may attempt to gain sensitive information regarding organizational networks by targeting employees through sophisticated schemes. Employees who receive e-mails seeking such information must immediately report to the concerned head of the IT department. Organizations must educate employees on the incident response procedures and information security practices through induction and e-learning programs. They may also collaborate with technical institutions and educational institutions and encourage employees to undertake online university degree programs and improve cyber security practices in the organization.
Cybercriminals constantly endeavor to improve their attack techniques. Professionals qualified in masters of security science may help organizations to assess prevalent security threats, envisage future threats and devise appropriate policies to improve the defenses of the organization.
If you have been reading the news lately and picking up on all the commotion around hack attacks on some of the big guns like Google, Yahoo and Adobe you may be experiencing a twinge of anxiety over the security for your own business. You may have believed your network was invincible so this news could leave you feeling shaky. You have good reason to feel this way - according to an article in the Sydney Morning Herald the number of hackers tampering with private financial information belonging to Australian business is on the rise. Obviously using the internet and intranet for business has become a viable solution to accomplishing company objectives, but on the downside the criminal faction sees just as much opportunity.
Australia is a Frequent Target for Cyber Crime
Symantec, a data security firm reported that Australian and New Zealand businesses suffer 75% more security breaches than the global average with 89% of the companies polled in the last 12 months admitting at least one intrusion. Hackers are not necessarily going after the major companies where they can make off with large sums of money. Like any other thief, they go where the risk is low and they can get in and out of a system quickly and without detection. The fact is you don't have to be at any particular level of business profitability to be targeted. Smaller companies tend to use less comprehensive IT security making them more susceptible. In general, hackers are interested in easy money.
Google and Other Large Corporations are Not Exempt
The threat does not always revolve around banking information or sensitive intellectual property. As Google discovered in December 2009, issues such as human rights are at stake in cyber attacks. The advertising and search giant was appalled that a highly organized effort dubbed "Aurora" was being made to hack into the Gmail accounts of Chinese human right activists. They managed to infiltrate only two accounts and were not able to see the account holders' actual correspondence. The action put Google in the position where it felt it necessary to warn the Chinese human rights community of the attack and to prepare to withdraw business ties with China. Officials at Google did not directly accuse the Chinese government of being the perpetrators but they decided to review doing business with the country based its attempts to limit free speech on the internet. Google stated concern for the safety of the Chinese citizens and the potential for them to be interrogated and imprisoned.
There were at least 20 other large internet, media, finance and technology companies included in the attack: Yahoo, Adobe, Symantec, Dow Chemical and Northrop Grumman to name a few. It was accomplished through a technique called "spear phishing." This resembles an attack against 100 IT companies in July 2009 where company employees were targeted with infected email attachments.
Small and Midsize Businesses have Minimal Defense
Most businesses are totally defenseless against these sophisticated attacks. They use instant messages and emails that seem innocent at first because the senders appear to be friends and trusted colleagues. The messages are fine-tuned to evade the anti-virus programs designed for these applications. Evidently the best practices for IT security that have successfully held attackers at bay for many years are no longer sufficient. There is an innovative caliber of attacks circulating around the globe using custom malware written specifically for individual companies. The hackers don't seem to mind if it takes longer to get around the antivirus software in use by the large corporations. They continue painstakingly to tweak their malware until it is effective. Smaller companies that don't have the budget for a large scale security have not stood a chance. The hackers have the ability to commandeer only one employee's laptop and make it a gateway for total administrative access to the company's entire network.
The security firm, iSec Partners that investigated the attack on Google and ensuing corporations recommend we make fundamental changes to the way we protect our networks. They say we have simply not been prepared for the level of sophistication demonstrated by the new cyber criminals.
Hacker Stories in the Australian News
Internet news sites report the direct effects of cyber hacking on Australia. Today Online posted a news article about a hacker called "Ghostbuster" that has been targeting Melbourne businesses as a response to violence against Indians. The person behind the attacks has been sending threatening emails stating Australian servers will be hacked until racism against Indian nationals is ended. The action came in the wake of the murder of a 21-year-old Punjabi student in January 2010. Several Melbourne businesses were victimized when their entire networks were thrown into chaos.
In the technology section of The Age is a report describing the effects on government websites by hackers associated with the group "Anonymous", known for its attacks on Scientology. This is the same group that temporarily blasted pornography across Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's website. On the morning of February 10, 2010 a number of government sites were down. The attack was in opposition to the government's plans for internet censorship. Communications Minister Stephen Conroy was not happy with the fact that Australian citizens could not obtain needed services online and felt it was irresponsible on the part of the hackers.
In the Sydney Morning Herald one journalist mentions the statistics that there are now more mobile devices in the country than Australians. It is not unusual for an individual to own two or three. The rising use of wireless broadband provides accessibility and convenience for subscribers but it also expands the territory for cyber criminals. Currently there are more barriers to cyber hacking wireless devices than terrestrial networks, such as the cost of making a phone call. However with the advances in mobile device technology to the point where it can replace the need for owning a laptop computer the potential for being targeted by hackers exists. The actual devices may be secure but the Wi-Fi network, often free and faster for users in public places is a temptation for cyber criminals. You may believe you have connected to a site operated by an airport, hotel or coffee shop, but there is no way of knowing for sure who controls the IP address that now has access to everything in your computer or mobile device. It is not that difficult for hackers to present a fake website you feel you can trust that they can use to steal from your network at any time in the future.
Millions of dollars are stolen everyday from individuals and businesses that use the internet. We are warned frequently about viruses, worms and phishing scam but somehow we get caught anyway. The situation is getting worse as hackers become better adept at breaking down the unique systems designed to keep them out. If you are still experiencing discomfort about the vulnerability of your network it will pay off to attend to your gut feeling.
Adam Rippon is the owner of Sydney Technology Solutions, Australia's leader in managed IT solutions for small and midsize businesses.
For a number of years low carbon building expert hurleypalmerflatt has provided its clients in India with a wide range of specialist building engineering services. The new office in Bangalore will further strengthen the firm's presence in the region.
David Young, CEO of the data center design specialist, stated: "India's economy is booming and we're seeing a strong demand for British-trained engineering specialists to support growth across the continent. We have a strong track record in exporting talent overseas to work alongside home-grown talent and, with our new Bangalore office, hurleypalmerflatt is well positioned to benefit from opportunities in the region."
Learn more about the services offered hurleypalmerflatt at http://www.hurleypalmerflatt.com/services
In theory at least, the Wild West days of the Internet are over. Based upon the inventions articulated in his five-patent suite, inventor, Harry Emerson III, has mapped out a union between our secure and venerable telephone system - AKA POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) - and the hyper-evolving, media-rich Internet which is so famously not one bit secure. As it evolves, he believes this next generation telecommunications system, dubbed IronPipe(TM), will have huge implications for national security as well as tremendous new revenue opportunities for the carriers and supply chains which serve them. Conceived in response to what he views as the seriously flawed paradigm which is currently developing as telecommunications migrate to the Internet, Mr. Emerson says he designed IronPipe(TM) to offer an alternative with a high degree of security. The Internet has produced something akin to a gold rush experience for those mining its resources and developing its vast potentialities, he said. But, in the midst of this frenzy, he has observed that fundamental requirements of privacy, secrecy, and security are seldom openly discussed when it comes to Internet-based phone services known as "Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems such as SKYPE, which are rapidly being developed.
These are serious issues, he maintains, and they need to be fully considered by users such as corporations, telecommunications carriers, VoIP carriers, law enforcement agencies, and federal and state governments, as well as by the millions of Internet using individuals who are concerned with their own personal privacy. According to Mr. Emerson our current state of vulnerability came about because we have turned a blind eye to these issues of privacy, secrecy and security, combined with the scramble for profit, and an unregulated environment for VoIP. "The Internet is a lawless frontier where nothing is safe and secure and reliability is always one step away from calamity," he says. "As things stand today, VoIP does little to protect the interests of the aforementioned entities, not to mention protecting the security of the United States. We are suffering untold numbers of hacker attacks DAILY, with systems broken into and identities stolen. Not too long ago the entire worldwide DNS system (Domain Name System) was brought to its knees by hackers," he said. In his opinion, if the technology continues to develop in its current direction, no one will be able to guarantee that communications cannot be intercepted and monitored. In addition, if we examine our current circumstances, a lot of the excitement generating the rush to VoIP is based upon an illusion, the appearance that we are being offered new and sophisticated technologies. In fact, existing VoIP offerings are simply discounted POTS services, he says, with no value-added features, only lower cost caused by fierce price pressure from cable TV and other low-overhead vendors. The result is the continued downward spiral on price that has plagued the telecommunications industry for 30 years. IronPipe(TM) is a re-thinking of 21st century telecommunications architecture, which will return a sense of safety to our society as a whole, reinvigorating our economy from the inside out. If his vision is implemented, Mr. Emerson says we won't have to put up with either the fear of intrusion, or the huge financial burden of protecting ourselves from the ever-increasing army of those with malicious intent. According to him, we now have a choice.
The challenge is that VoIP companies such as Skype, Vonage and the various Cable carriers which have migrated to the Internet did so not only to provide cheaper communications, but to avoid regulatory scrutiny. "If you don't have to deal with the regulations it tends to make things cheaper," he said. "But these profits come at a price." "The integrity of the communications system has been compromised because of short term thinking primarily geared towards reducing costs." In its simplest terms, IronPipe will enable us to make web 2.0 Internet-style media rich calls utilizing the existing private, protected, secure, Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), and its unseen private data network - known as SS7, which connects all the main switches around the world. While VoIP uses the Internet exclusively and thus can be, and regularly is, compromised, if we establish Internet calls through these telephone company switches there will be no access from the outside. We can create rich media visual telephone calls on broadband Internet connections, using wireline or wireless touch-screen phones such as the iPhone, simply by dialing a phone number, and still enjoy the privacy, security and reliability of traditional telephone calls. In short, Mr. Emerson says that his technology seamlessly merges the best of the Internet with the best of the telephone network. Considering the cost to government, industry and society at large to protect against intrusion and to remediate the damage caused by intrusion, IronPipe could be well worth looking into.
About Harry Emerson - Emerson Development LLC:
Harry Emerson is an expert in computers, voice and data communications, and the Internet. His career history includes 25 years in various sales, management, and strategic capacities at AT&T and the design and management of large-scale, multi-million dollar enterprise applications and data systems including the consolidation of 40 data networks into a single corporate-wide network, and an application for 5,000 sales representatives to access 120 million customer records. He has numerous patents issued and pending against a variety of technologies including FM radio, Internet streaming, PC software, and telecommunications. His background in switching systems and data networking, along with concepts he developed in corporate architecture and strategy positions, ultimately led to the development of a patent portfolio that defines the next generation of telecommunications, featuring secure, rich MultiMedia capabilities. Mr. Emerson co-founded GEODE Electronics to commercialize a series of patented enhancements to commercial FM radio. Subsequently, Mr. Emerson co-founded SurferNETWORK, an Internet streaming media business. He is a member of the NJTC Telecommunications/Media Industry Network Advisory board and the founder of Emerson Development LLC and the Inventor of the IronPipe system to create a secure Internet.
Jacqueline Herships is a publicist, journalist and communications strategist working to build public understanding of key environmental and security issues of the time.
Cybercrime is on the rise. Your Money and Your Life: Gone in Sixty Seconds Flat! "How?", you ask. OK, let me elaborate on a few of the many ways cybercriminals steal your money, and, literally, your life and they can do so in seconds, not minutes, or hours.
You may not be the only one using your computer. Cybercriminals known as hackers may be using your computers and you may not even know it. Would you ever know if your computer were taken over and being used by a hacker? Not likely. When a hacker hijacks a computer, the victim rarely knows. A computer that has been hijacked is one that is completely taken over by a hacker, or a group of hackers, to be used for their own purposes. The idea is that the real owner of the computer never knows their system has been hijacked, so the hackers can secretly use it whenever and however they want.
Personal information is now so readily available that a total stranger with nothing more than an online connection and a credit card could discover everything there is to know about you. He or she could compile a complete dossier on you, your family members, friends, work associates, or business rivals without any special investigative training.
Fears about identity theft are not limited to spyware or to records stolen from corporate databases. As it turns out, the neighbor next door can be just as big a concern. "Definitely, using the Internet to spy on average citizens is our next big social problem," said Avivah Litan, security analyst for identity-theft issues at the research firm Gartner.
One of the latest hacking trends is called "Drive-by Hacking". Popular wireless Internet access points have now become a major target for hackers. Hackers simply take their laptop computers in their cars and drive through business parks or residential neighborhoods remotely scanning for open wireless networks. This is the latest version of the drive-by garage door remote theft where criminal would use universal remote controls to open garage doors without arousing the suspicions of neighbors, police, or home security companies.
The new trend recently discovered: online hazards in hotels. Authorities are becoming alarmed at the number of traveler-victims who have reported that their personal or financial information was stolen after they had used a computer in a hotel's business center. It seems like the criminal use keylogging software to record the victim's key strokes. See related Story: ABC News Video: Online Hazards in Hotels.
With cybercriminals always on the move and coming up with new and creative moves to steal people's money, it would be wise to educate ourselves about the attacks, risks, and threats they perpetrate. Learn all you can, and then take evasive and preventative action. Get the strongest protection you can get that is best suited to your needs. The best defenses are a combination of education and managed protection service. Off-the-shelve individual or combined anti-spyware, antivirus, and anti-spam software programs may not be sufficient protection, because hackers seem to stay one step of these programs. The popular off-the-shelf products offer you no personalized support. If you want help, you'll pay for it over and over again! If you need a virus removed with these cheap programs, you'll pay for it. You may get technical support from your PC manufacturer for security problems, but in most cases, you probably will not. Even if you do, it will likely be for a fee, and one that repeats itself should you need additional help down the road.
To protect yourself, you need an Internet security team of experts making sure that you, your family, and your business computer are always safe and secure. The best protection you can have in today's rapidly changing world of cyber-attacks is to have expert support for all your Internet security needs that will provide technical support without any hassles and without charging you extra fees. It will become even more critical than it is today as time goes on. You need to find your own personal team of experts to rely on. If you ever have a security problem, you will want to have a trusted expert you can call for professional help, without any hassles and extra costs!
Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!
© MMVII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, Internet Safety Advocate and Educator
Etienne A. Gibbs, Internet Security Advocate and Educator, consults with individuals, small business owners, and home-business entrepreneurs regarding online protection against spyware, viruses, malware, hackers, and other pc-disabling cybercrimes. For more information, visit http://www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/.
By using an IP Changer you can make your online shopping more secure. Online shopping has grown rapidly and is finally being accepted as a major retail channel for all kinds of products. It is a multibillion dollar industry and growing so fast that it may not be too long before it becomes a measure means of day to day shopping. The concerns about secure transactions and safety of personal information that consumers need to provide have gradually been alleviated with secure sites and 128 bit or higher data encryption and transfer. Although rapid strides have been made in online shopping security there remained areas of vulnerability that have been plugged by a new technique using IP Changer.
As the security of online transactions increased so did online shopping. The important benefits from online shopping are convenience of 24/7 shopping from home avoiding traffic and crowds. You can easily comparison shop for quality and price rapidly and efficiently. You can save money from online coupons and specials and have merchandise delivered to you at times with free shipping. To top it off you save money on gas because you don't have to drive anywhere to shop.
Nevertheless, there are still strong reasons to be cautious because of scary identity theft in the form of your credit card, bank account, or social security numbers. Once stolen they can be used to create a financial, personal or medical catastrophes for you. Financial catastrophe by charging to your credit cards or taking new cards in your name or charging loans on bank accounts opened in your name or taking money out from your bank accounts. Personal catastrophe by using your social security number to take a driver's license and committing crimes under your identity. Medical catastrophe by using your social security number and as your imposter when getting medical attention at a doctor's office or a hospital. This can be extremely dangerous if the medical records get contaminated and next time you have a medical emergency you may be given medical treatment such as blood transfusion based on the imposter's medical records and history, thus endangering your life.
It is therefore very important that when you shop online and give your vital personal and financial information you take all the precautions to safeguard this information. Some of the precautions consumers can take are:
1. Use unique passwords
2. Use passwords that have 8 or more numbers, letters (both upper and lower case) and punctuation marks.
3. Make sure the e-commerce site is set up for encrypted secure transactions with SSL (secure socket level) certification.
4. Do not give out personal and financial information such as birth date, social security number, bank and credit card account numbers, security codes such as mother's maiden name over the phone or by e-mail or fax. Only provide minimal information required to complete the transaction over a secure internet connection.
5. Check out the e-commerce store's history and customer feedback and even check out online for any red flags against it including its standing with better business bureau.
6. Make sure the site has clear terms of agreement, security policies, warranties and return and refund policies clearly defined.
7. Be extra careful when shopping online from overseas companies.
8. Make sure your internet security software with antivirus, fire wall, anti-spy ware, anti phishing and anti mal ware features are updated and functioning properly.
Even with all these security features and precautions it should be noted however, that it is not fool proof especially when shopping online from public places such as hotels, libraries, airports or coffee shops over unsecured networks such as the wi fi networks. It is because there are many tech savvy cyber criminals that can find ways to penetrate your computer and network security (especially wireless networks) if they can get hold of IP Address of the computer you are using to shop online. IP address is a six digit number that is a unique identity tag for your computer provided by your internet service provider (ISP).
This is where new IP Changer software has come to the rescue. This software can route your internet connection through multiple serves called proxy servers located at a variety of locations with their own unique IP addresses. The IP changer software can rapidly Change IP with these proxy servers and at any given time present only a single IP address other than the IP address of your computer, thus hiding your actual IP address in the process. Simultaneously, all the data is transmitted in secure encrypted form. As a result you can transact online shopping anonymously and securely even over unsecured wi fi networks from home or public places.
Having been privy to very valuable insight into security concerns about online shopping immediately visit http://www.change-ip-proxy.com for more detailed information about IP Change and IP Changer.
There's no doubt how much of our lives now depend on your computers. We use these machines to communicate with our friends, learn more about our assigned topic for schoolwork, create beautiful graphics, create office reports and many other things which may just not have happened if not for this technology called the Internet.
Indeed, we can almost live in it because it practically has most of the things we need. However, Internet experts who don't have very good intentions just may abuse this convenience that we're enjoying. For example, its very convenient for us to buy something just by going to a certain website, picking some options and typing our credit card information. The problem is, the comfort we enjoy in taking advantage of this technology is the same comfort cyber criminals are so happy about because it makes them able to launch their cyber attacks quite easily. These attacks are, of course, going to undermine our computer's Internet security and if we don't want to expose ourselves to Internet threats, we need to understand what they are and, just as importantly, the people who are behind them.
Of course, by definition, an Internet security risk is anything that compromises the safety or condition of your computer and everything in it by way of the Internet. Damage may include anything within your data, your software, hardware and even processing incompatibilities. There are many types of people who could bring us many different types of risks as well, but these cyber criminals known as either hackers, crackers, cyberextortionists, cyberterrorists, unethical employees, script kiddies or corporate spies.
It's interesting to know that hackers were once viewed as good although it's undeniable that these days, the term has many negative connotations. A hacker is technically a aperson who breaks into a computer network's security walls and tries look into the leaks or the holes of the system. Originally, hackers did this to find out what made these systems weak and what could be done to make them stronger. These days, however, the term has been used to point to somebody who hacks for selfish purposes. For example, these days, people hack other people's computers to get their victims' personal information such as credit card usernames and passwords and use this information for illegal acts. On the other hand, the word cracker has retained its positive value and is always considered to be a good force in any network setting.
A cyberterrorist is someone who uses the Internet to launch an attack against another person's computer and usually for political reasons. Cyber attacks are pretty much like traditional terrorism wherein the people who are actually involved in the crime are highly skilled and trained. Meanwhile, an unethical employee would be someone who works in a company and uses the company's information or files to attack that company's management. A script kiddie is someone who tries to hack but has mediocre skills, that's why his tricks don't always work. A corporate spy is someone who is assigned to spy or pry into a specific network in order to steal information in an act called corporate espionage. Companies do this in order to take a step ahead of their competitors in the business.
However, as far as you're concerned, these cyber threats are all nothing when they don't see how or where to find your computer so they can embed a really nasty code in there. These threats are nothing because when you use an IP hider, you don't run around the web exposed. You're alway protected by a fake IP supplied by the software, thus, nobody can even find you, let alone damage your computer or steal your information.
A house is one of the most important and largest investments an individual can make in his or her lifetime. Therefore, leaving it unprotected does not make any sense. With crime on the rise throughout the world, the probability of a home being burglarised is higher than ever. Using a home security system or alarm system has become an option that every homeowner needs to seriously consider installing to help protect themselves and everything they've worked hard for, including their family. Children, parents, grandparents and pets can all be victims of criminal acts or unforeseen accidents, like fires. In order to safeguard loved ones and cherished pets from potential tragic incidents, home alarm and security systems are turning into an essential part of any household.
In addition to one's day-to-day lifestyle, vacations are a time when a home is most vulnerable for a break in. If the family is away from home they have little or no power to do anything if a local criminal decides to raid their house. The typical homeowner should not have to worry about the status of their home while they are supposed to be enjoying a well-earned holiday away from the stress of work. For this reason, an alarm system in an individual's home will ease the homeowner's mind and allow them to relax while they are away from home.
Home alarm systems are becoming a necessary part of owning a home. In the 21st century, purchasing and installing a security system is a must for any homeowner wanting to secure the satisfaction of knowing their home is truly safe.
Before we start, I would like to explain a couple of terms to users not familiar with DDoS attacks and botnets. A botnet is a network of software robots controlled remotely by crackers. A software robot in this specific case is a compromised computer (also called a "zombie computer"), infected with specific malware types like Trojan horses and worms. In other words, a botnet is a collection of compromised or "zombie" computers. I am not going into the details of a DDoS attack, but it is basically when a botnet sends thousands, even millions, of communication requests to a web server. This results in a bottleneck of incoming traffic, causing the server to crash, or making it so slow that it cannot serve the website to normal visitors anymore. An attack from a big botnet will therefore have a much larger impact on a web server than an attack from a smaller one. Okay, now that we have the jargon out of the way, lets delve deeper into the impact of malware infections on the Internet as a whole, but also for the individual Internet user.
The Internet is often referred to as the information superhighway. Off course the Internet as we know it today, is much more than just an information superhighway, the Internet has become a digital world where many offline tasks can be done online as well. You can work, play, recruit, date, shop, chat, watch TV, listen radio and do many other things online. But for the sake of this article I will stick to the term information superhighway, because the rules of the road is perfect for what I want to illustrate. According to Wikipedia, it is estimated that up to one quarter of all personal computers connected to the Internet, are part of a botnet. This estimate is not that hard to believe, I will even go so far to say that this figure may even be bigger than a quarter of the Internet's population, especially if you take into account the rate at which malware infections spread through the Internet. Ignorance plays a big role in malware infections, but don't leave negligence out of the equation. If it only stopped at ignorance and negligence, large and influential companies are able to address the problem, but they are unwilling to sacrifice profit for the safety of other Internet users.
Internet Service Providers are in pole position to address the increasing threat of malware infections, the one thing that's making botnets grow larger and larger by the day. Unfortunately they are only interested in making money instead of providing a safe and quality service to their loyal and honest customers. No they would rather keep the clients distributing malware, sending out spam or taking part in Denial of Service attacks, because it means loss of revenue for them if they decide to suspend the services or terminate the accounts of these clients. Most ISPs will state in their Terms of Service that they do not tolerate this kind of behaviour, but it is only done to make them look great on paper, they seldom enforce these terms. John Masters, anti-spam activist and a dedicated supporter of Cyber Top Cops, sent me an e-mail the other day, suggesting that we should roll out penalties against people who use unprotected computers connected to the Internet. Although I realise the difficulty of getting something like this into place, I personally think it is a great idea and I wholeheartedly agree, but before we start to punish the user, start with the ISP for not taking action against the user.
It makes a lot of sense to fine people who use unprotected computers on the Internet. This is why I referred to the information superhighway earlier in this article. The Internet can be compared to a real highway, where several road safety rules apply. Driving on a highway with a vehicle that's not roadworthy does not only put your own safety at risk, but also the safety of other road users. If a traffic officer pulls you off the road and find that your vehicle is not roadworthy, you will most probably receive a fine (unless you bribe the traffic officer). If you continue to drive like this you may end up with a suspended driver's licence. The same principle applies to computer security. If you use an unprotected computer on the Internet you're not only putting your own safety at risk, but the safety of other Internet users as well. If your ISP becomes aware of the fact that you're connecting to the Internet without appropriate, up to date anti-malware software installed on your computer, you are supposed to be fined for putting the safety of all other Internet users at risk. They should suspend your services if you continue to connect to the Internet with an unprotected computer.
Your computer may be distributing malware, spam, phishing e-mails or advance fee fraud scams. It may even be used in Denial of Service attacks. So you end up becoming an accomplice in Internet crime. You unknowingly become a spammer, a scammer or a malware distributor. By using an unprotected computer you contribute to cyber crime instead of fighting it. That's not all, the malware may be monitoring your keystrokes, capturing everything you type, stealing passwords, e-mail addresses, account numbers, social security numbers, credit card numbers, names, telephone numbers, physical addresses... can you see where I'm going with this? These programs are able to compile a complete profile about yourself, this information is then transmitted back to the operator of the malware, who may use it to commit fraud in your name, in other words steal your identity. The perpetrator may even clean out your bank account, open credit cards or take out loans in your name and guess who is going to receive the bills at the end of the month, you!
What are the practical implications of implementing a penalty system for reckless Internet users? First of all, the ISP needs to have solid evidence, proving that the guilty party was really using an unprotected computer. Secondly, if the user had anti-malware software installed on his/her computer, they need to prove that the software was outdated. Finally, if the user had up to date anti-malware software installed, they need to prove that the software was not appropriate for preventing malware infections. This means that anti-malware software needs to comply with certain safety standards before they can be accepted as approved anti-malware solutions. This will effectively force all anti-malware developers to put their software through specific tests, conducted by a computer security standards authority. It will also cause anti-malware application prices to rise, which may pull the plug on the development of free anti-malware solutions, unless the developers certify these free applications as well. ISPs should use special software to check whether these approved anti-malware applications are installed on the client's computer. The software should send out several warnings to the clients who do not comply with these standards, giving them a reasonable amount of time to attend to the problems and providing detailed instructions on how to resolve them. Access to the Internet should only be terminated if the user fails to respond to these warnings.
Many people might ask, how should I update my anti-malware application if my Internet access is terminated? Access should only be terminated if you fail to respond to the warning notifications sent to you. If you end up with a terminated account, it means you ignored the notifications and you should have thought about the implications of your actions before you decided to ignore them. Others may claim that they are computer illiterate and cannot install software or keep them up to date. Most anti-malware applications update themselves and it does not take a rocket scientist to install them. With most of these installations you simply need to click on the "Next" button until you see a "Finish" button. If you can surf the Internet, then I'm sure you know how to click a button. I understand that not every Internet user is a computer expert, so if you find it difficult to install software, join an online forum like BleepingComputer.com, GeeksToGo.com or TechGuy.org and ask for assistance. It is extremely important to secure your computer before it gets infected with malware.
I just painted a pretty grim picture, didn't I? The burden placed on Internet Service Providers to check up on clients, to prove that clients are using unprotected computers, to penalise those who disobey the rules and to close down the accounts of regular offenders. Then there is the problem of high anti-malware prices and no more free anti-malware solutions for the people who cannot afford expensive anti-malware protection. But this is where the Internet is heading if we do not take action now. Online fraud is causing consumers to loose confidence in Internet shopping. Phishing scams are making users afraid of signing up for Internet banking services. People are weary of online payment and trading services like PayPal and eBay, no matter how safe they claim to be. Spammers are stealing bandwidth and the Internet user have to cough up for the costs. Expensive hardware and software is needed to fend off Denial of Service attacks. Malware is at the root of all these problems. It is the biggest contributor to cyber crime and eliminating malware is like removing a species from the food chain. This will be a big blow to spam and bot networks, resulting in less spam and phishing scams, fewer DDoS attacks and fewer stolen identities, passwords and credit card numbers. All the money saved through proper prevention of malware and malware related problems, can be utilised to build better anti-malware protection and assist companies to continue the development of free anti-malware solutions for home users.
So what is the bottom line? Internet Service Providers need to take responsibility for their networks. Customers are paying for Internet access, free from spam and malware attacks. It is the responsibility of the service provider to keep spam and malware infections within acceptable limits. Proper legislation needs to be put into place and governments need to take action against service providers if they allow these threats to rise beyond acceptable limits. How can they keep these threats within acceptable limits? Listen to the complaints sent through to your abuse departments, stop ignoring them, terminate the services of regular offenders and publish these actions for everyone to see. Make examples of those who do not want to listen and soon enough you will have people sticking to the rules. People will continue to do what they want if they know there is no punishment for their wrongdoing.
About the Author
Coenraad is webmaster and founder of Cyber Top Cops, providers of free malware removal assistance and helpful Internet security tips for the novice user. In the next installment of the PC Security DIY article series, we will look at the foundation of Internet Security, using a secure browser and e-mail client and getting into safe browsing and e-mail reading habits.
Security technology is only a part of an overall security plan. If you own a small business or a home-based business, or if you've been tasked with implementing security at your organization, developing a comprehensive security plan should be a very important part of your overall security strategy. Get the information you need to get started on the right track! In the computer/internet security game, the best move is one of Prevention! Prevention! Prevention!
With that in mind, here are the twelve questions you need to be asking, or, at least, be thinking about if you're serious about preventing or stopping security risks, threats, and attacks:
1. Do I have a solid security policy or strategy?
If you don't, begin immediately to get sample security plans, policies, and best practices for your business and/or home.
2. Where would I go for key information and news on keeping your information private?
Search the internet for managed security services. Ask if they provide a free computer test to assess your pc's level of vulnerability. Ask if they provide the latest tips to keep your privacy and protect your personal information and that of your business. Or simply - ask me.
3. Does my disaster recovery plan include redundant back-up and data recovery systems?
Understand what a good data back up system is and how to best recover from a disaster.
4. Do I know how to create safe passwords?
Learn how to write virtually un-crackable passwords.
5. How do I train my employees or family members to be secure?
Get all leading research on what to teach about security.
6. What do I do if my employees are my biggest security risk?
Learn all about social engineering and insider hacking.
7. What or who is a hacker?
A person who uses and/or creates software technology to break into the computers of individuals, businesses, government, and organizations for personal gain is known as a hacker. Often after he, she, or they hack into a computer, they can control it secretly by remote, making it a "zombie computer".
8. How does he (or she or they) break into home and business computers?
If they don't have the break-in software, they can buy it off the black market, or create it, themselves. With this technology, they use their malicious software to look for holes in the computers of their targeted victims.
9. To what extent might my home or business computers be vulnerable to hackers, hacker's tools, viruses, etc.?
You will never know unless you take the time to test your computer to see what holes are open, by what back doors (up to 65,000 portals) are malware entering your computer.
10. What is "drive-by hacking"?
Because wireless Internet access points have become popular for homes and businesses, home and business computers have now become a major target for hackers. In this new phenomenon, called "dive-by hacking", hackers simply take their laptop computers in their cars and drive through business parks or residential neighborhoods remotely scanning for open wireless networks.
11. Would I know if someone tries to hack into my computer?
Depending on the security measures you have on your computer and the sophistication of the hacker's software program, you might or might not be aware. Using keylogging programs, these cybercriminals can secretly see and record every keystroke you enter on your computer, thereby gaining access to all your private and personal information.
12. I have all the security measures, anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall I need. Can I still be hit by hackers and other pc-disabling attacks, risks, and threats?
Again, depending on the security measures you have on your computer and the sophistication of the hacker's software program, your computer or computers might or might not be compromised. Remember: Cybercriminals are superintelligent criminals! They somehow always seem to stay one step ahead of authorities and anti-cybercriminal software.
Obviously if you have to ask these questions, then you need to take immediate steps to plug the holes and cover the gaps.
So, here are some steps you can take immediately to implement, increase, or improve your present security measures:
* Learn all you can about hackers and the tools and methods they use to invade your privacy and cause problems. Subscribe to a comprehensive source of Internet security research, news and information for small and mid-sized businesses and organizations, or other professionals, that want to increase their level of security and build on their current technologies and efforts.
* Take advantage of the research already done. Get access to information about the leading topics in the security field, including hackers and hacker tools, viruses, data back up, writing good passwords, government and legal issues, protecting from insider hacking - and more.
* Stay current with important security news developments. Work with a managed security firm that maintains an entire library of the most beneficial news articles, white papers and other links that you can use to maintain an excellent awareness of cyber-security issues on an ongoing basis.
* Need help creating a security plan for your organization or business? Take advantage of professional security consulting and training both by telephone consulting or on-site visits. Get vulnerability assessments, employees training, security implementation, and much more.
Because cyberpredators and other cybercriminals are becoming smarter and more sophisticated in their operations, they are real threats to your personal security and privacy. Your money, your computer, your family, and your business are all at risk.
These cybercriminals leave you with three choices :
1. Do nothing and hope their attacks, risks, and threats don't occur on your computer.
2. Do research and get training to protect yourself, your family, and your business.
3. Get professional help to lockdown your system from all their attacks, risks, and threats.
Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!
© MMVII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, The Internet Safety Advocate and Educator
Resources Box: Etienne A. Gibbs, Independent Internet Security Advocate and Educator, consults with individuals, small business owners, and home-business entrepreneurs regarding online protection against spyware, viruses, malware, hackers, and other pc-disabling cybercrimes. For more information, visit http://www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/.
Economists predict that the economy is on its way to recovery, and within a relatively short space of time, we will stop feeling the pinch. However, the media paints a different picture, today was rife with speculation of a 15% rise in energy bills, and with the recent increase in petrol prices - which will rise further when the new duty added. Whether the media is fear mongering as usual, or the pinch is likely to close in, we are all in dire need of some money saving ideas. One area, in which we can all save money, is clothing, and with the increasing cost of clothes, this should come as a relief to many of us who are currently struggling with debt.
The difficulty comes in knowing where to find a bargain; well we have the answer: the internet. Whether you wish to purchase from a ladies clothes shop, a children's clothes shop, or a men's clothes shop, the best place to find a deal is on the internet.
Many people will raise queries regarding internet shopping, amongst them are concerns about quality, safety (in terms of identity theft and fraud), and fit. We will discuss each in turn, in the hope of alleviating some of these fears, and helping the reader to make changes in the way they shop to save on household expenses.
Quality
A great number of people are reluctant to make online purchase, doubting the quality of the goods they are buying.
There are several issues here. Let us first consider designer clothing. Designer clothes are much cheaper online than they are in a real-life shop. The reason for this is not that the items are fake or imitation, merely that internet retailers are able to offer better prices on their merchandise. They are able to offer better prices because they have fewer overheads, the cost of running the business is less than that of a shop front. It is as simple as that. Clearly, some unscrupulous businesses will sell imitation items without informing the customer, but these tend to go out of business very quickly. If you doubt the reputation of an online retailer, check review websites, if they have good reviews for the most part, they are likely to be sound.
Ladies clothes shops that operate online tend to have a decent amount of information relating to each product, as well as pictures that you can view of any items you want to buy. This goes some way to ensuring quality, but regardless, if the item is not to your satisfaction, a decent company will have a returns policy, so you can simply send them back.
Safety
Internet retailers want to generate and maintain a decent customer base. They do this by looking after their customers. Most online shops have secure payment methods, such as PayPal and Google Checkout. Millions of people use these methods on a daily basis, and very few, if any, fall victim to cyber crime. It is important to shop with a retailer that offers at least one secure payment method and you should only shop with a retailer that does.
Fit
Because you are unable to try the clothes before you buy them, fit is not a guaranteed. Particularly concerning ladies clothes shops, where sizes vary greatly between retailers, a size 12 with one shop, may be equivalent to a size 14 in another shop.
There are two ways of dealing with this issue:
• Find the measurements in their imperial (inches) or metric (centimeters) dimensions, and measure yourself against them.
• Alternatively, make use of the companies return policy if the clothes do not fit. You may incur a small postage fee, but this generally works out to be around the cost of an hour's parking at a large shopping outlet. Most retailers, however, offer a free returns policy (they want you to come back so they treat you well).
Browse a ladies clothes shop for collection of women's fashion at www.womens-clothing-shop.net
IP Changer Software is a new technology that can significantly enhance your security and privacy when browsing the internet over wired or wireless networks at home or office. This article will show why network security, particularly wireless network security is important, what security measures are recommended and how these can be augmented by frequent IP change with the help of an IP Changer.
With the advent of widespread availability of broad band Internet services use of Internet at home, school and work has become ubiquitous. At the same time this has introduced various security challenges primarily from hackers, computer viruses, spy ware and malware. Networking of computers and peripherals at offices reduces costs and increases productivity. In the beginning networking was mostly wired. This limited its use at home. But with the introduction of wireless networking it is now commonplace and standard to have a home networking system. These systems are inexpensive, easy to deploy and essential if you want to use lap tops at home or office. It is extremely convenient to connect to the Internet and other peripheral devices whether you are at home or office.
However, wireless networks are inherently unsafe because the Internet connection is through the airwaves. Unless the connection is thoroughly secured you run the risk of being hacked and your sensitive, private financial and personal data being stolen. You can be victim of identity theft and run the risk of serious financial, medical and criminal consequences.
At the center of a network is a router that broadcasts the wireless signal. If it is not secured the unauthorized users or Cyber Crooks can connect to it. Not only can they get a free Internet connection, but they will sap the bandwidth and thus slow your connection. Even worse they can get access to your computer and steal your sensitive information. It is the router that assigns unique IP address to each computer device on the network. Therefore it is the most vulnerable part of the network. It is paramount therefore to have a secure network and be able to hide your identity tag the IP address.
There are several security measures one must take to have secure wired and wireless networks. The basic security features include ENCRYPTION using either the older less secure WEP or newer more secure WEPA and WPA2 methods. Encryption is the method that scrambles the signal sent from a computer to the wireless router of the network and vice-versa. Without encryption, the words sent over the wireless connection are transparent and anyone can intercept the signal and read it. But with encryption it is very hard to decipher. There is additional security because the connection is password protected (Network Key or WPA key).
The network connection is further secured by controlling at MAC (Media Access Control) address level. MAC address is a unique identification number of each wireless adapter.
Other security tips include, disabling SSID (Service Set Identifier) broadcast,enabling MAC filtering, disabling DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), enabling security features of router, enabling logging on, changing default pass word and settings, frequently changing the passwords, using strong passwords, enabling HTTPS, turning off the router or client machines when not in use and keeping the software (firmware) of the router up to date.
After taking all these steps you will have a reasonably secure network. However, you have to remember three things. One, in spite of these elaborate security measures you do not have fool proof security, second, your data over the Internet is not encrypted and thus not secure and last but not least your IP address is still transparent over the Internet. IP short for Internet Protocol Address that is provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a six digit number that is unique to your computer and identifies your computer and your location on the Internet. If hidden it will tremendously enhance your security over the net. If hackers do not get access to your IP address they cannot penetrate the security of your network and the computer.
This can be achieved by frequent IP Change by directing your internet connection through a number of servers with their own IP addresses and located at distant multiple locations. The software that allows us to do this is called the IP Changer. Furthermore, this software comes with 128 bit or higher encryption capability. As a result all your data is transmitted in highly secure and encrypted form.
By using this software to Change IP frequently your actual IP address is effectively hidden while rest can see only one of the many IP addresses the IP Changer presents at a given time. In this way you surf anonymously and your wired and wireless connections are secured above and beyond the regular security measures discussed above.
So if you are using an IP Changer with your wired or wireless networks you will be surfing with much enhanced safety and security, protecting your sensitive data, identity and privacy on the internet while enjoying the convenience of wireless networking.
Having learnt some important information about a new technology that uses and Privacy Software to make wired and wireless networks safer and more secure go to http://www.privacypartners.com to get an in depth information about the technology and systems that will best help you to enhance the security of your networks.
Home ? Internet ? Security ? Why Might the Wildcard SSL Certificate Be Right for eCommerce Security? About Wildcard SSL Certificate security
When using a large amount of sub domains on a website for an eCommerce business platform, a Wildcard SSL certificate is a comprehensive and reliable security solution for protection of the main web site and unlimited sub domains. From the standpoint of protection and validation of the main website, the security of Wildcard Certificates is highly recommended and widely trusted. It can generate significant saving of time and money.
Managing and organizing individual SSL certificate for a main website and each subdomain is a frustrating hassle. Wildcard SSL certificates offer the best relief and a different option concerning security and authenticity. With the execution of a single server Wildcard Certificate on the same server, it will protect transmission of data for the main web site as well as protect the data of sub domains while transmitting over the Internet.
The Wildcard SSL Certificate is one of the best and affordable options to secure medium and large size eCommerce businesses. It saves money and as well time. Wildcard Certificates improve online business consumers' trust and confidence, which will boost online sales conversion globally.
Numerous Advantages of Wildcard SSL Certificates :
Security echelon:
If we procure individual SSL certificate for each subdomain, it will be painful to organize, product cost will likely be higher, and labor cost will rise. The Wildcard SSL certificate ensures all sub domains and the main website are secure, using a single server certificate, with the standard encryption format of 128/256-bit.
Managing and Organizing:
Execution of a Wildcard SSL certificate makes encryption a smooth and easy process. Single Server SSL Certificates management allows a comprehensive level of security for each subdomain and the main website automatically.
Warranty Security:
Wildcard SSL Certificates include a valuable warranty of security, a competitive advantage, giving confidence to site visitors throughout your site. This is a consistent call to action to use their confidential information on the website.
Wildcard SSL Certificates are being offered by major SSL Certificate brands, such as RapidSSL, GeoTrust, and Thawte, on a Global Scale. RapidSSLonline is a leading and authorized platinum authority of major SSL certificates such as RapidSSL, GeoTrust, VeriSign, and Thawte. A Specialist in Major SSL certificate security solutions, RapidSSLonline provides the cheapest SSL certificate security solutions for RapidSSL WildCard, Thawte SSL123, GeoTrust QuickSSL Premium, and GeoTrust True BusinessID EV SSL Certificate (recommended for any eCommerce Business Platform). Join NASA, the United Nations, IBM, and Microsoft in trusting our solutions. To learn more about Cheap SSL certificates for eCommerce, visit https://www.rapidsslonline.com.
Source: ArticleTrader.com 
?Top Authors?1 Stebee (3270)
2 limalan88 (2920)
3 alien82 (2756)
4 kajuba (2508)
5 sverdlow (1712)
6 juliet (1691)
7 jamiehanson (1644)
8 MarkeD (1296)
9 AnthonyF (1244)
10 articles (1195)
11 robertoms2003 (1169)
12 artavia.seo (1148)
13 cj (1069)
14 gprather (1063)
15 Osborne (1050) ?Distribution
?? When it comes to the security of your online business, how responsible are you with the safety of your website and all the information that is tied up with it? The answer to that question will tell you a lot about how safe you can expect your business to be both now and in the future.
There are two types of people in this area - ones who are pro-active and ones who are reactive, and to keep your website as secure as possible you want to make doubly sure that you fall into the first group.
So why is this? Why should you be pro-active regarding your internet security?
The reason is because being pro-active means that you don't wait for something to go wrong in order to analyse how effective your solutions really are, or how protected your business and your customers are. If you are reactive on the other hand, you will find yourself merrily going along on a day to day basis with your head in the sand... not even considering the fact that there might be a problem with anything until one actually occurs.
And if you have read even a fraction of the news stories online which point to the activities of the cyber criminals, you will know that they are always finding ways to breach the security of companies who don't take their own protection seriously.
Clearly there is a message here. Just as you wouldn't leave your home unlocked and wait for a criminal to stroll in and steal everything of value to you before locking it up safely and protecting it as much as you can, you shouldn't rely on luck to evade the cyber criminals either. If they come across your website and it is obvious that they can do a lot of damage in a very short time, then you can be sure that they will do so without further thought as to how it will hurt your business.
If you have been guilty of falling into the reactive group of people, then all is not lost. You can make positive changes from today if you take the decision to be pro-active from now on. If you are at all unsure about just how secure your business, website and systems really are, then the best thing to do is to call in a reputable and trusted company to perform penetration testing, to identify whether or not you have any loopholes or entry points that you weren't aware you had.
This is becoming a more and more popular service that many businesses call on regularly - for peace of mind and also to make sure they are doing all they can to protect themselves and their customers every single day they are trading. As the cyber criminals get more ingenious there is no reason to suspect that the threat of cyber crime will be reduced any time in the near future, so we must do all we can to step up and combat them at every turn.
Pure Hacking helps protect your Internet security by providing world-class penetration testing and ethical hacking risk management services. For a free consultation, please visit Ethical Hacking [http://www.purehacking.com].
Imagine your closest friend standing next to you. Now imagine your closest friend betraying all of your secrets. And making a handsome profit whilst doing so. Now picture your smartphone inside your handbag or pocket. Picture your smartphone sending your passwords, banking information, e-mails, and private information to some stranger. And picture that stranger making a handsome profit. That is mobile malware.
What is mobile malware, really?
In more technical terms, mobile malware is the spread of malicious software (hence "mal-ware") among wireless devices. Mobile Malware is unpleasant stuff. It could compromise the information on a mobile device, and there have even been cases of compromised devices used to pull information from Personal computers (hijacking USB synchronization). Mobile malware is yet another growing fraud category which involves infecting mobile devices with viruses and Trojan horses that may force a mobile phone to do unauthorized activities,like making phone calls and deleting or stealing information.
Once installed on a device, mobile malware replicates itself and performs undesired activities, such as using network services like SMS or voice to make calls to PRS numbers or to subscribe to unwanted billing schemes; data theft, where the user's personal phone records such as contact lists and account details are stolen, sent to a third-party, and erased on the handset; and launching distributed DoS attacks intent on forcing a legitimate service to fail.
Not only is mobile malware a threat to individuals, it is also a huge security risk to businesses. It has the potential to commandeer a corrupted smartphone and use it as a proxy or gateway into an organization's central network. By commandeering a handheld device, cyber criminals can waltz past a standard firewall program and make their way onto a company's email server, client database, Customer relationship management tools, and other essential parts of the network. Damage of this magnitude can grow from something very small, such as a member of staff getting a message to download a free game or software update.
Mobile Malware is rapidly increasing
Mobile malware is on the rise for several reasons and it is following the Law of Computer Virus Evolution:
The Law of Computer Virus Evolution
In order for malicious programs targeting a particular operating system or platform to emerge, three conditions need to be fulfilled:
1. The platform must be popular
2. There must be well-documented development tools
3. The presence of vulnerabilities or coding errors
The widespread adoption of 3G (and soon 4G) and Wi-Fi connectivity and huge hard drives are other factors contributing to the increase of mobile malware infection. In fact, malware activity in 2010 increased 46 per cent over 2009.
The good news is that practically all mobile malware threats call for some type of effort on the part of the user. Malware can't magically appear on your phone. It usually happens after a user downloads a malicious app and the recent DroidDream incident reveals that mobile malware is more advanced than ever before.
How to stop mobile malware and protect yourself
Keeping a close eye on the app stores is a must, as Google proved. Google banished about 50 free applications from its app store immediately after it was found out that the titles hid a Trojan horse designed to steal users' information. The applications, which included pirated and copycat versions of legitimate Android titles, had been downloaded tens of thousands of times before Google took corrective action.
The best way to protect your mobile device (and yourself) is to take a layered approach to mobile security. Before you download that shiny new app, look at its permissions. An app shouldn't receive more permissions that what it needs. For example, a simple notepad app shouldn't need unrestricted access to the internet. Also, don't download apps from unauthorized or illegitimate app stores.
The second layer should be a very good antivirus app on your phone, and the third layer should be a firewall. If you choose wisely, the second and third security layers can be found wrapped up in a mobile security app.
How to choose an effective mobile security app
An typical mobile security solution will have capabilities that assist in operating the program and efficiently protecting the device. A very good mobile security application will include things like antivirus, antispam and firewall protection with realtime security. An exceptional mobile security application will have all of the preceding, as well as sms protection, remote wipe (in case your smartphone is stolen), and gps location (again, in case your smartphone is stolen).
What is the best mobile security app?
Ask ten experts and you'll get ten different answers. This question is almost as hotly debated as "what's the best antivirus software for my computer?" In order to narrow down my choices, I used the criteria mentioned above to come up with a list of mobile security applications. As you can see, many of the desktop giants of antivirus software have developed mobile versions of their software. The list isn't comprehensive, but it will give you a good starting point.
AVG
AVG Mobile Security is specifically available for Android. It comes with anti-virus and SMS anti-spam features that give protection to your mobile against all unwanted messages and advertising. Price: $9.99
ESET
ESET Mobile Security brings a new level of protection to Symbian and Windows Mobile smartphones, so you can be confident in the safety of your device -- even if you lose it. Price: Free for thirty days.
Dr. Web
Dr Web Mobile Security Suite is an anti-virus security solution for Android, Symbian OS, and Windows Mobile. However, they aren't sold separately and are bundled with Dr. Web products for workstations.
Lookout
Lookout mobile security is also a multi-platform mobile device software that has a user-friendly, simple and in-depth virus scanning abilities. Lookout Mobile Security is currently available on Android, Blackberry and Windows Mobile.
Price: Free, with a Premium version at $29.99/yr.
F-Secure
F-Secure Mobile Security allows smartphone users to experience the full potential of their devices without the fear of mobile threats. F-Secure Mobile Security automatically retrieves the newest updates whenever any data connection is used. An additional SMS update mechanism patented by F-Secure ensures that critical malware fingerprints are received even when a data connection is not available.
Price: Subscriptions begin at $3.31/month (approximately).
Kaspersky
Kaspersky Mobile Security is currently available on Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0, 6.0, 6.1, 6.5 and Symbian OS (Nokia smartphones only).
Price: $29.95/unit/yr.
BullGuard
BullGuard Mobile Security is one of the better mobile security applications. It is one of the very few that supports all major mobile OSes like Android, Blackberry, Symbian and Windows Mobile.
Price: $29.99/license/yr
Mobile malware is a scary thought, and the problem is likely to get worse, especially since smartphone adoption is skyrocketing. Using the tips and advice in this article you can protect yourself (and your personal information) against the rising tide of mobile malware.
John Wright is a Computer Consultant who has been successfully removing malware from personal and business computers for several years. Visit http://www.johnscomputerconsulting.com to ask questions and learn more.
In its annual report earlier this year, the Federal Trade Commission announced that the most vulnerable targets of identity theft are 18-29-year olds. Likewise, the 2007 Identity Fraud Survey Report, released by Javelin Strategy & Research, uncovers similar findings: "Adult victims between the ages of 18 and 24 are least likely to take easy, but important, safeguards such as shredding documents and using antivirus software and firewalls, resulting in more than 5 percent of those surveyed falling victim."
And Stephen Knighten, a research associate for Javelin Strategy & Research, adds that residence hall life may increase a student's risk for identity theft: "Oftentimes, you're in a situation where you probably have a roommate and people coming in and out of your apartment … physical documents tend to sort of sit around, and there are more avenues of access with your roommates' friends and your friends."
The Internet Crimes Against Children program last year investigated 2,329 cases of enticement and of predators traveling to meet minors, and 252,000 cases of child pornography. Yet those numbers provide just a glimpse of the activity, since many local police forces are too small to investigate child porn.
"It's absolutely overwhelming," says Brad Russ, director of Internet Crimes Against Children's training and technical assistance program, which trains 1,000 officers each year. "The scope and the scale of the problem far exceeds our capacity." Intensifying the epidemic is that more than half the world has no laws dealing with child pornography.
And what are some of the other careless acts of college students that leave them vulnerable to identity theft? Here are a few of the ways they might be inviting predators, hackers, and other cybercriminals:
* They setup and use an unsecured wireless network. (Hackers love this because it makes their drive-by hacking that much easier. And not only is the student' information stolen, but the hacker may add software to turn the student's computer into a "zombie" computer thereby taking remote control of it. Hint: It only takes a few more moments to create a userid and password for an extra level of protection.)
* They use guests' computers in the business centers of hotels to enter their personal and/or financial information. (The newest trend for hackers is to hack into these computers so that can secretly record every keystroke and commit other crimes using the student's information. Hint: If you use courtesy computers at a hotel, make absolutely sure that you are on a safe and secured line. And, taking it a step further, do not enter any personal and financial information unless it is absolutely necessary and this is your only option. See the related story from ABC News' Good Morning America in the video below.)
* They inhabit social networking sites and let their younger siblings share the site with them. (While social networking sites, like MySpace, and many others, are extremely popular communities where young people innocently engage in countless hours of banal chatter and photo-sharing, unfortunately, these social networking sites have also become the hangouts for child predators, child pornographers, and other cybercriminals. Hint: Putting filtering and monitoring software on kids' computers provides some protection. Parents, use legitimate software to block Web sites and create a log of visited sites. As parents and guardians, you can monitor a child's activity from other computers and be notified of violations via E-mail or cell phone.)
* They quickly and without verifying identities add new "friends" to their instant messenger buddy lists. (While it is rewarding to see your buddy list grow with new friends from around the world, be sure that you absolutely know that the new friend is actually who he says he or she is. Many times predators and cybercriminals (male and female) will hide behind pictures of extremely attractive ladies in sexy poses. Hint: Before adding any new friends to your buddy list, take time to read their profile (which may or may not be completed fully), or do further investigation by visiting their website. An incomplete profile should serve as a red flag and raise you level of suspicion.)
It may take a village to raise a child, but in a world of online social networking, decentralized networks and servers, and increasingly tech-savvy child predators, it's going to take a united effort among government, industry, and families to keep them safe. To protect your child, you need an Internet security team of experts making sure that you, your family, and your business computer are always safe and secure.
The best protection you can have in today's rapidly changing world of cyber-attacks is to have expert support for all your Internet security needs that will provide technical support without any hassles and without charging you extra fees. It will become even more critical than it is today as time goes on. You need to find your own personal team of experts to rely on. If you ever have a security problem, you will want to have a trusted expert you can call for professional help, without any hassles and extra costs!
Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose.
© MMVII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, The Internet Safety Advocate and Educator
Related Story: Good Morning America video
Etienne A. Gibbs, Internet Security Advocate and Educator, consults with individuals, small business owners, and home-business entrepreneurs about online protection (including free lifetime technical support and $25K identity theft insurance and recovery) against spyware, viruses, hackers, and other pc-disabling cybercrimes. For more information, visit http://www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/.
In case of the latest attack, the malicious link reportedly displays a pop-up window on a click and urges the target victims to download a file, which appears as an image or video file. Unsusceptible users who click on the link inadvertently download a malware and compromise their computer systems. The malware designed to extract user login credentials on financial sites, also mines the details of the affected computer. While it appears that the latest malware is targeting Portuguese language speakers, the malware writers may devise similar schemes to target English and other European-language speaking users.
Earlier in the year, Symantec had identified spam e-mails targeting Hindi speaking users. Attackers apparently disseminated messages written in Devnagari script. Scammers always look out for ways to deceive Internet users through devising new schemes or redesigning the old schemes. Scammers act swiftly to design fraudulent schemes based on latest happenings. Internet users must not respond to e-mails appearing from strangers, containing links that promise to display images or video. Even in case of e-mails that appear to arrive from legitimate institutions, they must verify the authenticity of the e-mail address, check for broken links, prefixes or suffixes appended to URLs, and spelling mistakes in the message to verify the authenticity of the e-mail. Internet users must scan their computers with legitimate security software at regular intervals and prevent malware infections. Internet users may improve cyber security awareness and online computing practices through online degree programs and e-tutorials.
Professionals qualified in masters of security science, IT degree programs and security certifications attempt to create awareness on security issues through blogs and forums. IT professionals may follow the security advisories offered by cyber security experts and improve the security practices in their organizations.
Educational institutions must update cyber security courses and online university degree programs to incorporate evolving threats and enable students to devise new mechanisms to improve cyber security.
