We have all heard the term Trojan Horse, but what exactly is it? A Trojan Horse is a destructive program that masquerades as a harmless application. Unlike viruses, Trojan Horses do not replicate themselves, but they can be just as destructive. One of the most dangerous examples of a Trojan is a program that promises to rid your computer of viruses but instead introduces viruses into your computer.
The Trojan can be tricky. Who hasn’t been online and had an advertisement pop up claiming to be able to rid your computer of some nasty virus? Or, even more frightening, you receive an email that claims to be alerting you to a new virus that can threaten your computer. The sender promises to quickly eradicate, or protect, your computer from viruses if you simply download their “free”, attached software into your computer. You may be skeptical but the software looks legitimate and the company sounds reputable. You proceed to take them up on their offer and download the software. In doing so, you have just potentially exposed yourself to a massive headache and your computer to a laundry list of ailments.
When a Trojan is activated, numerous things can happen. Some Trojans are more annoying than malicious. Some of the less annoying Trojans may choose to change your desktop settings or add silly desktop icons. The more serious Trojans can erase or overwrite data on your computer, corrupt files, spread other malware such as viruses, spy on the user of a computer and secretly report data like browsing habits to other people, log keystrokes to steal information such as passwords and credit card numbers, phish for bank account details (which can be used for criminal activities), and even install a backdoor into your computer system so that they can come and go as they please.
To increase your odds of not encountering a Trojan, follow these guidelines.
1. Remain diligent
Trojans can infect your computer through rogue websites, instant messaging, and emails with attachments. Do not download anything into your computer unless you are 100 percent sure of its sender or source.
2. Ensure that your operating system is always up-to-date. If you are running a Microsoft Windows operating system, this is essential.
3. Install reliable anti-virus software. It is also important that you download any updates frequently to catch all new Trojan Horses, viruses, and worms. Be sure that the anti-virus program that you choose can also scan e-mails and files downloaded through the internet.
4. Consider installing a firewall. A firewall is a system that prevents unauthorized use and access to your computer. A firewall is not going to eliminate your computer virus problems, but when used in conjunction with regular operating system updates and reliable anti-virus software, it can provide additional security and protection for your computer.
Nothing can guarantee the security of your computer 100 percent. However, you can continue to improve your computer's security and decrease the possibility of infection by consistently following these guidelines.
To read more about computer security and Windows errors visit: http://www.brighthub.com/computing/windows-platform/articles/9194.aspx
Friday, 23 July 2010
Friday, 22 January 2010
Securing Your Computer System
Today, more and more people are using their computers for everything from communication to online banking and investing to shopping. As we do these things on a more regular basis, we open ourselves up to potential hackers, attackers and crackers. While some may be looking to phish your personal information and identity for resale, others simply just want to use your computer as a platform from which to attack other unknowing targets. Below are a few easy, cost-effective steps you can take to make your computer more secure.
1. Always make backups of important information and store in a safe place separate from your computer.
2. Update and patch your operating system, web browser and software frequently. If you have a Windows operating system, start by going to www.windowsupdate.microsoft.com and running the update wizard. This program will help you find the latest patches for your Windows computer. Also go to www.officeupdate.microsoft.com to locate possible patches for your Office programs.
3. Install a firewall. Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can all easily access your computer from the Internet. Consideration should be given to the benefits and differences between hardware and software based firewall programs.
4. Review your browser and email settings for optimum security. Why should you do this? Active-X and JavaScript are often used by hackers to plant malicious programs into your computers. While cookies are relatively harmless in terms of security concerns, they do still track your movements on the Internet to build a profile of you. At a minimum set your security setting for the “internet zone” to High, and your “trusted sites zone” to Medium Low.
5. Install antivirus software and set for automatic updates so that you receive the most current versions.
6. Do not open unknown email attachments. It is simply not enough that you may recognize the address from which it originates because many viruses can spread from a familiar address.
7. Do not run programs from unknown origins. Also, do not send these types of programs to friends and coworkers because they contain funny or amusing stories or jokes. They may contain a Trojans horse waiting to infect a computer.
8. Disable hidden filename extensions. By default, the Windows operating system is set to “hide file extensions for known file types”. Disable this option so that file extensions display in Windows. Some file extensions will, by default, continue to remain hidden, but you are more likely to see any unusual file extensions that do not belong.
9. Turn off your computer and disconnect from the network when not using the computer. A hacker can not attack your computer when you are disconnected from the network or the computer is off.
10. Consider making a boot disk on a floppy disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised by a malicious program. Obviously, you need to take this step before you experience a hostile breach of your system.
Today, more and more people are using their computers for everything from communication to online banking and investing to shopping. As we do these things on a more regular basis, we open ourselves up to potential hackers, attackers and crackers. While some may be looking to phish your personal information and identity for resale, others simply just want to use your computer as a platform from which to attack other unknowing targets. Below are a few easy, cost-effective steps you can take to make your computer more secure.
1. Always make backups of important information and store in a safe place separate from your computer.
2. Update and patch your operating system, web browser and software frequently. If you have a Windows operating system, start by going to www.windowsupdate.microsoft.com and running the update wizard. This program will help you find the latest patches for your Windows computer. Also go to www.officeupdate.microsoft.com to locate possible patches for your Office programs.
3. Install a firewall. Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can all easily access your computer from the Internet. Consideration should be given to the benefits and differences between hardware and software based firewall programs.
4. Review your browser and email settings for optimum security. Why should you do this? Active-X and JavaScript are often used by hackers to plant malicious programs into your computers. While cookies are relatively harmless in terms of security concerns, they do still track your movements on the Internet to build a profile of you. At a minimum set your security setting for the “internet zone” to High, and your “trusted sites zone” to Medium Low.
5. Install antivirus software and set for automatic updates so that you receive the most current versions.
6. Do not open unknown email attachments. It is simply not enough that you may recognize the address from which it originates because many viruses can spread from a familiar address.
7. Do not run programs from unknown origins. Also, do not send these types of programs to friends and coworkers because they contain funny or amusing stories or jokes. They may contain a Trojans horse waiting to infect a computer.
8. Disable hidden filename extensions. By default, the Windows operating system is set to “hide file extensions for known file types”. Disable this option so that file extensions display in Windows. Some file extensions will, by default, continue to remain hidden, but you are more likely to see any unusual file extensions that do not belong.
9. Turn off your computer and disconnect from the network when not using the computer. A hacker can not attack your computer when you are disconnected from the network or the computer is off.
10. Consider making a boot disk on a floppy disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised by a malicious program. Obviously, you need to take this step before you experience a hostile breach of your system.
Sunday, 20 April 2008
Ever Thought Of Buying More Than One iPod Shuffle Case?
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Have you ever thought of buying more than one iPod case? Unless you are selling them in a retail setting, there is no reason to purchase a large quantity of iPod cases. However, for some people buying more than one iPod Shuffle case can save money in the long run. Some online vendors offer a discounted rate of you purchase more than a certain amount of cases for your iPod.
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If the online vendor offers a discount on ordering more than one case, you can also save money on shipping. Think about this – instead of paying for shipping on one case every time, ordering more than one case can help you save a bundle on shipping, or receive it for free because of the quantity. In a few days time, the case for your iPod Shuffle ordered online is on your doorstep.
Your next question is probably, “What would I do with more than one case for an iPod?” if you are in the habit of forgetting or losing your items, having a “backup” case for your iPod Shuffle might just be what your need. Also with the popularity of these electronic gadgets, I am sure you can think of at least five people who would enjoy receiving iPod Shuffle accessories as gift items.
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Not only can you use the extra cases as replacement cases when you lose your favorite one, or give them as gifts, but quite a number of people have gotten into the habit of displaying their iPod Shuffle as a clothing accessory. They change their iPod cases as often as they change their outfits, and the different range of colors for them makes it possible!
Have you ever thought of buying more than one iPod case? Unless you are selling them in a retail setting, there is no reason to purchase a large quantity of iPod cases. However, for some people buying more than one iPod Shuffle case can save money in the long run. Some online vendors offer a discounted rate of you purchase more than a certain amount of cases for your iPod.
Banners 4 All - Banner Exchange
If the online vendor offers a discount on ordering more than one case, you can also save money on shipping. Think about this – instead of paying for shipping on one case every time, ordering more than one case can help you save a bundle on shipping, or receive it for free because of the quantity. In a few days time, the case for your iPod Shuffle ordered online is on your doorstep.
Your next question is probably, “What would I do with more than one case for an iPod?” if you are in the habit of forgetting or losing your items, having a “backup” case for your iPod Shuffle might just be what your need. Also with the popularity of these electronic gadgets, I am sure you can think of at least five people who would enjoy receiving iPod Shuffle accessories as gift items.
Surfbirder Banner Exchange
Not only can you use the extra cases as replacement cases when you lose your favorite one, or give them as gifts, but quite a number of people have gotten into the habit of displaying their iPod Shuffle as a clothing accessory. They change their iPod cases as often as they change their outfits, and the different range of colors for them makes it possible!
Monday, 11 February 2008
Appearing Cool And Trendy With A Video iPod Case
Having received a video iPod for my birthday, I was keen to find out the accessories available for it. For me, the first accessory I wanted to buy was a case for my video iPod. A video iPod case was exactly what I needed to protect my iPod during my daily train commute into the city. Not only did the case protect my new “little toy”, but it also was stylish enough that I gave the impression of being cool and trendy. Of course this was not possible overnight.
The case for my video iPod wanted to select for my iPod had be waterproof, and protect the surface of the iPod. I wanted one that was guaranteed to do the job and would last, and was willing to pay a bit extra for it. This was due to the fact that since receiving my iPod, I had been stuffing it into my coat pocket, almost dropped it that one time, and was constantly wiping off smudges or specks of dirt from its surface. Luckily for me, I have not done any visible damage to it as yet.
With the hours I work, it was best to find somewhere online to order the new case for my video iPod. Since these cases were specifically designed to fit iPods, there was quite a large selection of them to choose from. What made shopping online handy was the fact that I just did not have the time to go looking from store to store. However, sitting at my desk on my lunch break, I was able to find the exact case for my video iPod, and have it shipped to me a few days later. Now with my new case covering my iPod, I do not have to worry about it being protected, as I travel back and forth.
The case for my video iPod wanted to select for my iPod had be waterproof, and protect the surface of the iPod. I wanted one that was guaranteed to do the job and would last, and was willing to pay a bit extra for it. This was due to the fact that since receiving my iPod, I had been stuffing it into my coat pocket, almost dropped it that one time, and was constantly wiping off smudges or specks of dirt from its surface. Luckily for me, I have not done any visible damage to it as yet.
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With the hours I work, it was best to find somewhere online to order the new case for my video iPod. Since these cases were specifically designed to fit iPods, there was quite a large selection of them to choose from. What made shopping online handy was the fact that I just did not have the time to go looking from store to store. However, sitting at my desk on my lunch break, I was able to find the exact case for my video iPod, and have it shipped to me a few days later. Now with my new case covering my iPod, I do not have to worry about it being protected, as I travel back and forth.
Wednesday, 2 January 2008
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