IT Safe...

The volume of spam emails, virus attacks and other security problems have been on a steady increase. In order to address these problems the government has set up a service called ITsafe.
The ITsafe website provides advice in plain English about protecting computers, mobile phones and other devices from malicious attack.
IT's two main features are a glossary in plain English and a low-volume Alerting Service sent to you via email. This will warn you of the most serious risks that might affect you when you use your computer. For more about ITsafe, including ways to assist in getting the message across to your community, visit the website at www.itsafe.gov.uk

Top Tips for Online Security.

Anti Virus Software
When connecting to the internet, it is always important to have the latest anti-virus software to protect your PC. Anti virus software is available to purchase in local stores, and there are some freeware services available online. Once you have installed your software, it is important to download updates on a regular basis.

Firewall
When you start using a broadband connection it is very important that you protect your computer as it is 'always online' and is more susceptible to attack! These attacks take the form of small programs that will copy themselves on your hard drive and send back information when you're online. These programs are known as Spyware or Adware as they sometimes appear as a small 'pop-up' window. Firewalls are available on the market as a standalone piece of hardware that sits between your PC and the internet. They are also available as software, which protects your system virtually.

What's IT all about?
In response to a recent survey that found many people do not understand the terms used to warn them of internet security threats, we have devised this short quiz to help out.
True or False?
Spyware
a) small programs that monitor your every move on the computer slowing down your computer and breaching your privacy
b) the cool sunglasses worn by Sean Connery as he whisks around the world

Virus
a) When your computer catches a nasty rash from an email, develops red spots and gets so tired it has to lie down
b) a nasty program, usually sent in an email you are not expecting, that is designed to damage your computer (see above)

Pharming
a) The new funky way to grow fruit and vegetables online - a sort of virtual farm
b) When fraudsters redirect you from real sites to fake websites - usually banking sites

Phishing
a) Fraudulent e-mails and pop-ups to fool you into revealing personal information for criminal gain.
b) A pleasant pastime enjoyed by many including Bing Crosby.

Trojan
a) A Hollywood movie sequel to the film Gladiator
b) Malicious software disguised as a harmless program

How did you score?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. answer: a 2. answer: b 3. answer: b 4. answer: a 5. answer: b