SECURITY

To the casual user, computer security doesn't seem to be a big concern until he/she suddenly starts having major problems with his/her computer. This, of course, causes the user to take their computer to a more knowledgeable person to have it checked out. At this point the user is informed that it was infested with malware and that they should have been running some up to date security software. The experts advise a layered defense against malware. Because new vulnerabilities are discovered with regularity an updated and layered defense approach is needed to reduce the effectiveness of malicious attacks on computers or (hopefully) stop them cold.

Such a defense should start with a method of controlling traffic to and from your computer. In other words a firewall. The next step is to have an Anti-Virus program installed and kept updated. Then Anti-Spyware programs are the last of the "Big Three" to have in place, as spyware can cause almost as many problems as virus, Trojan and worm infections. If you don't have these on your computer you might want to check out these pages.

For help in deciding which security programs to use, it is advisable to search the web for problems reported by other users. Forums at sites where PC users are given help with computer problems also contain an abundance of information and advice. If you see a certain program being recommended on more than one site, you can be sure it is safe to download and install. Using a bit of care and caution will help you avoid the "rouge" programs that cause more problems than they cure. Here is a short list of forum and informational sites. More resource sites will be added as we become aware of them. This list was last updated on 03/16/2008.

Once you have the Big 3 installed, make it a practice to keep them updated either manually or automatically. Don't forget about keeping your Operating System updated so that you have all security patches in place and as many hacker/cracker loopholes covered as possible. Since the bad guys have shifted their tactics to exploiting vulnerabilities in applications, it is a good idea to check for updates and security patches for the applications you use on your computer.

With the Big 3 in place tightening security in other places takes focus.

Other layers will be listed here when time permits and/or we become aware of them.

Since Microsoft tightened Windows security, the bad guys have started searching for exploitable vulnerabilities in other applications. The first to be hit were IM programs. You don't have to give up IMs but you should consider using a secure IM program like BitWise Chat. It is secure, encrypted and the basic program is free. Another feature you will appreciate is there are NO ADS!!! Click the banner below and get all the details.

For those who wish to add security to their USB flash drive or iPod there is available for download a 30 day trial of The Portable Security Suite from Research Triangle Software. Providing anti-spyware, private Internet browsing and encryption software, this suite is a viable alternative to the U3 technology found on some brands of USB flash drives. At this point, U3 technology has been tagged as a security risk by the folks of Security Now net casts. It should be no surprise that The Portable Security Suite functions differently than U3 and not only because it is from a different company but because it's primary purpose is the security of files stored on the device. With the use of the included encryption software, which uses Blowfish encryption, should the device be lost or stolen any data on the device will be inaccessible even if the password needed to access the device is cracked. It is definitely worth checking out! Just click the banner below.

Microsoft, Microsoft Office, Windows, Windows XP and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other names have been included in the above text that are trademarks of the respective companies.

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