‘Internet Security’ is software installed on your PC that
provides re-assurance and insurance when you are online and browsing the
internet and accessing emails. Without it, you run a risk of many possibilities
just as you would with driving a car without a seatbelt and insurance.
So what are those online risks? Viruses, Malware, Identify
Theft, Spam, Trojan Horses, and Worms are all threats included in the term
“Internet Security” and it can infect and have an adverse effect on any home or business PC’s without proper and
updated Internet Security.
Currently, one of the more major threats is Malware. Short
for Malicious Software.
Malware code imports itself within a computer system without
the user’s knowledge. This can range from annoying pop-ups on your screen to
the theft of confidential passwords and critical data containing customer
information.
Thankfully, basic measures are available to protect you and
your information. The first is a common
sense approach and if an email is delivered to your Inbox that doesn’t appear
to be authentic, do not open the attachment or click on the web link. Delete
the email. The same rule applies to not install software on your computer if
you are unsure of its source.
You should look for Internet Security software that protects
you against the following:
Identity theft, Trojans,
Bots, Root kits, Spam, Viruses, Spyware. Internet Security software should at a
minimum include a firewall built into the software. Some but not all Internet
Security software including free editions will only protect you against some of
these threats and not all threats. This leads to a compromised system. Most
importantly, ensure your Internet Security software is licensed for each
computer and updated regularly. You can purchase full Internet Security
software for under $50.00 which will give you 12months of updates;.
Here are 5 Best Practices for Internet Security
1) Ensure
your Internet Security software is licensed for each computer; home and
business and scheduled to receive updates automatically and regularly.
2) Ensure
your Operating System and Internet Browser is updated with the latest service
packs and patches.
3) Schedule
a full system scan weekly or fortnightly within your Internet Security software
and remove threats found.
4) Avoid
and/or minimise opening file sharing links, website links, instant messaging,
peer to peer software and email from an unknown sources.
5) Consider
the cost of the data to you. If it got infected, take measure to protect it
from happening again and ensure your data backups are valid in case you need to
restore after infection.
