Implementing a comprehensive security solution will go a long way to protecting users from Internet threats however, Internet users need to be more vigilant and ‘streetwise’ to potential Internet threats.
You can further reduce the risk of malicious attack by following some simple tenets to deter attacks, and prevent time being wasted on resolving issues that could have been avoided.
Identifying Spam
If you receive Spam you could report it to the Internet Service Provider who has provided the sender with access. For help on doing this visit the Knowledge Base and read the articles listed below:
Step 1: Locating the source IP address of an e-mail:
Step 2: Finding the ISP abuse contact e-mail address to send your report to:
Don't just click 'Yes'
Many PC users get into the habit of always clicking ‘Yes’ when presented with a Yes/No option on their screen, this is because clicking ‘Yes’ gets you to where you want to be. Most spyware authors rely on this habit of blindly clicking ‘Yes’ in order to install their malicious programs on users systems.
Always take note of what a site/program is asking you to install before clicking ‘Yes’ and do not simply click ‘Next’ through an installation process. Most importantly of all, always read the Licensing Agreement to see exactly what you are agreeing to.
Be wary of 'Pop-Ups'
Scripts can be written on websites, asking to install software ‘required’ to access a site. Unless you absolutely need to do so, we would suggest these should never be allowed to be installed, unless you are confident they are from a trusted source. At their most harmless, they will be used to track a PC and report its activities. At worst they may contain diallers intended to call a premium rate number for Internet access, incurring potentially huge charges.
Don't believe the hype
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. No-one is giving away thousands of pounds on the Internet, and downloading copyrighted files is not legal just because someone told you so.
Keep passwords cryptic and private
To remain protected you need to ensure that all your security packages are kept up-to-date with the latest definitions and patched. You also need to use secure passwords that include a mixture of upper-case letters, lower-case letters, numbers and symbols – never use names or words that potential hackers can easily guess. You should also change your passwords on a regular basis and never divulge your personal security details to others.
Keep wireless networks private
If you are using a wireless connection then ensure that your data transmissions are encrypted and your wireless network is locked down to authorised users only.