Protecting Yourself Online – The Basics of Internet Security

Internet security, or how to keep safe while online, is an important consideration for anyone who spends a reasonable amount of time on the internet. Are you taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself online and do you know what to do if people do attempt to attack you?

What Types of Attack Can You Come Under Online?

There are several different ways in which people may try to attack you online and that you need to be aware of.

Firstly, harmful software usually known as viruses, Trojan horses or malware may be automatically installed onto your computer without your knowledge and then these go about destroying parts of your computer and can prevent your computer from functioning correctly.

The second category is malicious spyware where you get software installed on your computer that allows others the chance to spy on your activities and this can allow them access to confidential information if you are not cautious.

Fraudulent emails may also try to get you to take actions that on the surface appear acceptable but are actually giving the attackers access to information. This is often used to get your password to internet banking sites or payment processors, etc.

Internet Security and Viruses

The first protection you want is against harmful software such as viruses, Trojan horses and malware. Getting a good anti-virus program such as Norton Internet Security or AVG is the first step in preventing this type of attack and you should also use the anti-virus features that allow you to check whether there are any viruses on your computer and then remove them. By regularly using an anti-virus program to check whether there are viruses on your computer and ensuring that this program is up to date you will go a long way in protecting yourself online.

Protecting Yourself from Spyware

Protection from spyware and adware usually comes with your anti-virus and internet security package and is done in a similar way – by both trying to protect you before the software is installed as well as allowing you to check regularly whether any spyware or adware has been installed on your computer.

Spoof Emails – Protecting Yourself from Fraud

Emails that are sent out to look like they come from a genuine company such as Paypal, Alertpay or even your bank, but are actually malicious attackers trying to get hold of your personal information. These are known as spoof or phishing emails.

The first thing you need to realize is that no internet bank or payment service will ask you for your password or any other personally identifying information in an email. If you do receive such an email then you should immediately contact the company that the email is supposed to have come from and let them know. Then delete the email. Never use a link in an email to access an internet banking or payment service website.

Although internet security measures have improved dramatically over the last few years people will continue to try and attack the innocent and so it is important to understand where your dangers lie and to take steps to prevent being attacked. If you suspect that someone may be trying to attack you then contact the relevant person (e.g. Paypal for Paypal spoof emails or Alertpay for Alertpay spoof emails, etc.), do not give out any personal information and regularly run an anti-virus and anti-spyware check on your computer.