Using Virus Protection to Prevent a Breach of Security in Your PC

Thousands of viruses are roaming around your computer and in the online world. Since they can create havoc by stealing your personal information and data, a complete virus protection for your PC is must. Using the best virus removal software can do wonders for your computer by providing regular alerts and by removing malicious programs from your system.

For better security from malicious activities you should get a free antivirus download which enables your computer to work efficiently and speedily without any charges. Antivirus software will scan your computer and remove all the unwanted and harmful software and will immunize your PC against malicious behaviors.

Not only virus but your computer can be affected from worms, Trojans or malwares, so a complete computer virus removal program is essential for you. Good virus removal software will generate a complete scan report and will undertake any required action to protect against viruses without changing the normal working of your computer. It is to be noted that every virus needs different types of solutions. Since, worms, Trojans, malwares are all different and act differently, the removal activities should also be different from each other. Moreover, cloud antivirus will provide protection against viruses, spyware, root kits and worms without downloading signature files and will provide smart virus detection technology that will not slow down your PC.

The most important use of antivirus is that it can also protect you from online identity theft and monitors your computer through a complete virus protection.

Virus removal softwarecan also perform multiple scanning operations so that you can be assured that your computer is totally free from viruses and malwares. Apart from that, a good antivirus can also repair and remove the infected areas of your hard drive so that your PC is totally cleaned.

Individuals use their PC for different types of activities. You may use computer at home and in offices and in both the places the threat of malicious attacks on your data is a burden. Since antivirus software is designed differently for specific purposes, If you are a home user you need a separate antivirus program, but corporate users require a different level of protection. You should also keep in mind which antivirus you are going to install or download for your computer according to your needs.

The best antivirus software will deliver great security and usability with minimum amount of time, money and system resources. You can search online to find the best services for your PC protection and online security.

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Keep Your Computer Secure When Surfing

Only a few years ago, most people looked forward to the arrival of new phone books. Today they seem superfluous. We have become accustomed to finding the information we want online. We have even started to do a lot of our shopping online. But how do you protect your privacy, important information like credit card numbers and your computer itself while online surfing?

The first step is to make sure you have a good software firewall in place. It should be a firewall that stops unwanted outbound (dial-home) attempts as well as inbound ones. The firewall that ships with Windows XP only stops inbound attempts and this is not sufficient. (You may also want to contact your internet service provider to see if there are any settings you can change on your router to increase your on-line security.)

Secondly you need a good antivirus program, with up to date virus definitions installed and actively running on your computer. Third, use a safe browser- older versions of Internet Explorer should be avoided. Whichever browser you use, you will want to keep it up to date, as most browsers are constantly patched to close security holes as these are found.

You want to avoid phishing attempts. Never click on a link in an email that purports to be from your bank or any other site where you would enter a sensitive log-in when you get there. Most companies will not tell you by email that there is a problem with your account, just because of this. If you ever do get such an email DO NOT follow the link, instead type the name of their web site into a new browser window. That way you will know that you have arrived at the genuine site and not a copy owned by crooks for phishing purposes.

There are certain types of sites that are notorious for being places your computer can pick up a virus. These include porn sites, crack sites (no, not the type of crack you smoke, the type that helps you run software without paying for it), and gaming sites. If you must visit such sites you need to take extra precautions as no firewall or antivirus software is perfect. You should run an isolation program like Sandboxie. These programs keep all your surfing activity quarantined, and make it easy to delete all files that were created during a surfing session.

Two more suggestions. Once in a while you should use a different antivirus program to scan your computer. The best practice is to download their virus definition updates, disconnect your computer from the internet, turn off your regular antivirus program and then scan. You can use the free versions of Super Anti Spyware and Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for this. If you suspect that you have picked up a cloaked root virus, you will need a recent anti-virus program that is combined with a boot disk. It is usually impossible to find a virus in your boot sector without this type of disk. Remember to turn your regular anti-virus program back on afterwards to keep your computer secure when surfing.

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Ways On Hiding Your IP Address

An IP or Internet Protocol address is a numerical number assigned to every computer that takes part in a network. Internet protocol is used for communication in this case. You can hide your IP address from internet servers in most cases. However, in some cases, it is not possible to hide Internet Protocol address of a computer as other devices will not be able to communicate with it.

One of the common methods to hide your IP address is the use of Proxy servers.This server is a special purpose computer that allows users to have indirect connection to other services present on the network. The user first connects to proxy server and then the file or connection is requested. The resource is provided either by serving it from cache or by a specific server connection. However, the server's response or user's request may get altered for some purposes.

In order to remain anonymous on the network, different types of proxy servers can be used:

Proxy servers that are browser configured

These types of servers are standalone and configure your internet browser to route the traffic through a machine. This machine sends the request from your side and then displays back the results to you. In most cases, these servers are free to use but they are slow because they are accessible publicly. These servers come in different types:

• Anonymous Proxy - This server reveals its identity as a server but does not disclose the original IP address. Although this server can be detected easily but it can be beneficial for some users as it hides the Internet Protocol address.

• Transparent Proxy - This proxy server again identifies itself, and with the help of http headers, the original IP address can be seen. The main benefit of using this type of server is its ability to cache the websites. In some cases, your IP may get banned due to the use of transparent proxy. Your Internet Protocol address is not hidden in this server.

• High Anonymity Proxy - This server does not reveal its identity and it does not allow the visibility of original IP address. Your Internet Protocol address is hidden when this server is used.

• Distorting Proxy - Distorting proxy also reveals its identity but incorrect IP address is made available when http headers are used. Your Internet Protocol address is hidden in this case also.

Proxy Servers that are based on Website

It is a type of proxy website that allows you to enter the URL of the website that you want to visit using the proxy. When the desired page request is sent, the proxy website requests that page. Moreover, it does not reveal its identity as a proxy server and your IP address is not passed also. The price and the features may vary when these proxy servers are used. But some of them are free of cost and you can easily find them on the net. This is how you can hide your Internet Protocol address.

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Virtual Private Networks - Things To Look For In A VPN Provider

Virtual Private Networks allow secure connections between private networks through the use of the internet. They let the computers even those in the remote areas to operate as though they were on the same local and secure network. A lot of businesses use VPN because they are efficient, useful, and secure. Imagine, you can be at home and access the computers in your company as if you were just sitting there! And while doing this, no third party intruder can tap, snoop, or interfere with your data. Clearly, having a VPN is a great thing, right?

Now, although working in a VPN is indeed a great idea, it is important to make sure that you choose the right provider for you. Of course, this will highly depend on your needs and priorities. Some people need to use a private network to bypass an internet restriction or get through blocked websites. On the other hand, some might use a VPN just to watch foreign TV shows online, or surf the web while hiding their real IP address.

Most VPN service providers work to get the largest number of features in their services. Naturally, they want to encourage and please as many users as they can at the same time. However, this doesn't mean that you always have to choose the provider, which has the most number of offers. It is wiser to choose a VPN provider based on other more important criteria.

For one, you might want to find out about the available servers of the Virtual Private Networks providers in your area. Where are they located? This can be important, as you may need authorization to use other servers in the future.

It is also important to check the speed of their connection. Sure, the provider can give you an idea; however, you're not supposed to just take their word for it. They are, after all, doing business, right? Of course, they would tell you all the good. But, to ensure that they're giving quality service, it would be helpful to read reviews and feedbacks from other clients.

When the feedbacks are good, then you are likely looking at a good provider. But apart from checking out their server locations and speeds, you should also consider the procedure of setting up the account. How is the installation and configuration going to be? It should not be too long or complicated. If it is, you may have a long and complicated problem in the future too.

The bandwidth limit is also something you may want to check. Generally though, it may run anywhere between 5 and 20 GB per month. However, some providers offer premium packages that give you unlimited bandwidth. Depending on your needs, you may want to subscribe to something like the latter.

Finally, the technical support also matters a lot when it comes to looking for the best VPN service provider. As virtual private networks are established for special purpose, it's important to keep them running as smoothly and perfectly as possible. Hence, any good VPN provider should be able to provide its client with a fantastic and reliable after-sales service.

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How to Improve Network Security

Using internet applications is great fun but they are sometimes unsafe and susceptible to unauthorized access, security threats and the inability to access inbound and outbound traffic. Sometimes you may also face the stealing of some crucial information and the interruption of some unauthorized software which consequently hampers your software and increases the security risks. Making use of internet security firewalls is the best way to protect your computer.

With firewall security you can stop unauthorized access to the network or internet by allowing authorized communication to take place. If there is an attempt to access the network or internet, it allows the user to block and encrypt the attempts which are blocking them. It is one of the ways to remain safe from viruses, Trojans or malware, which repeatedly continue to interfere with and connect to the internet or network. A typical firewall works only one way by keeping vigil on inbound traffic; for example, Windows XP and Vista, which are unable to control the multiple threats. So it is better to install the two-way firewall that checks both the inbound and outbound traffic. Such a firewall allows the creator to manipulate the system while recording the keystrokes, including internet banking accounts and keywords and send those logs to the creators. The two-way firewall works at the Intrusion Detection System which initiates an outbound connection.

The best firewall can block different ports through which an unidentified logger can seek information from your system by blocking unauthorized traffic online. So if you want to minimize the threat, use the best firewall protection software. One should select the appropriate firewall security system/software that should be compatible with your system and should provide the best internet security.

You will find many antivirus companies that can also provide firewalls. They can be disabled or reinstalled according to the user's desire. For complete internet security, you can install a firewall in every computer in the network. The added benefit of it is that if any one of the computers is being infected with viruses, it cannot be spread to the other computers in the network if each and every computer in the network is protected by the firewalls.

The function of firewall security is very simple since the mode of communication in the network is transmitted into small packets and these packets are equipped with both the originator of the message and the receiver of the same. The firewalls installed can determine the type of application message and properly assemble it to find whether the originator is authentic or not.

Therefore, the basic function of the firewalls is to protect the computer from unauthentic and illicit networking and thus provide the best network security.

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The Estonian Cyber National Guard

During his opening keynote speech at ICEGOV 2011 in Tallinn, Estonia, President Toomas Hendrik Ilves highlighted efforts of the Estonia's Cyber Defense League, an operational arm of the country's National Defense League.

An all volunteer force, the Cyber Defense League acts as a national guard to protect Estonia from cyber attack, following the major assault on country in 2007 by Russian hackers.

"Our country encourages IT professionals to contribute to national defense as part-time members of our cyber national guard," said Ilves; these are young people "who are motivated, patriotic, and think it (contributing to national defense) is pretty cool."

Traditional Barriers to National Service Removed

Recruits entering their country's national service, such as the army, normally follow a similar track. The first year of service provides an exercise in mental torture, mental strengthening, physical training, gathering skills to function in the infantry, and all the other training needed to bring a civilian into a basic level of competence for military service.

This standard routine serves to exclude individuals who may be far more interested in technology, academic pursuits, sciences, and to be honest, becoming serious network or software geeks. While there may be an argument that military organizations have become much better in their cyber-warfare capabilities, it can also be argued many of the best minds in a country are those developing technology systems, rather than super users.

Estonia, home of Skype and other global software initiatives, is harnessing the power of their intellectual resources in a positive way, which also promotes national security, pride, and patriotism.

Cyber Weekend Warriors

The Cyber Defense League (CDL) is a uniformed service, equal in stature and responsibility to other arms of the National Defense League. Recruits require security clearances, and are available for mobilization in the event of a national emergency - regardless of the nature of that emergency.

CDL members muster for weekend duty, exercises, and additional cyber security and warfare training.

Cooperation between private industry and national defense is much closer than in countries such as the US, where even during national emergencies commercial companies are rarely engaged in immediate cyber attack and response - at least not in full cooperation with the government or military. There may be representation in groups such as the CERT, however even those organizations generally act outside the scope of national defense.

In Estonia, now commercial companies and many of their employees are an inherent component of the national cyber defense.

... Be Cyber Strong

So, if we consider a model of supplementing national security by recruiting engineers, developers, and technicians in a single model location such as the Silicon Valley, train them to extend their skills to support national defense, complete a background check and offer a security clearance, what would the potential impact be on reinforcing our California or national Cyber Protection capacity?

Add more highly skilled engineers from other technology "industry cluster" states to the defense system, and it is highly probable that we will make great strides in further strengthening our local and national cyber defense.

Of course in the United States we do have to get over some additional concerns, such as suspicion among many in Internet and technology communities who may not fully trust the intentions of the government.

The burden is on the government to establish programs, develop a thought leadership campaign to build a sense of service and pride, and then fully embrace extremely motivated and intelligent IT professionals into the military community.

One of those programs is the DOD's Defense Industrial Base Cyber Pilot, which allows the DoD to share some information with private enterprise regarding threats to security. However it is clearly a superficial attempt, and does not seek to actively engage those who potentially have the best skills to offer.

Estonia is a small country, struggling to break free of the social and institutional constraints imposed by nearly 70 years of Soviet and Nazi occupation, and economic restrains of a global recession. A country with a motivated workforce, and a need to protect all their national wired resource from theft, exploitation, and attack.

The Cyber Defense League is a very unique, and creative step to provide that security and protection.

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Secure Browsing At Work - Strategies for Secure Browsing At Work

Somebodies Watching You!

Every day that you use your computer at work there is someone monitoring your Internet usage. Your employer knows every web site that you've visited, and if they are extra nosy they probably know everything that you've typed. Think back to all of the things you've typed or web sites that you've visited that you wouldn't want anyone to know about-- They know about them! This is the main reason why you should never think that a work computer is your property because it isn't. It belongs to the company, and not you. Secure Browsing At Work - Strategies for Secure Browsing At Work. If you must visit your favorite sites and send out personal information please read on, and learn how to protect yourself.

How Your Company Snoops On You.

Most of us can't resist visiting our favorite social media websites and favorite Internet forums while at work because it is so ingrained into our daily routine. We often check Facebook before we check our voice mail or email accounts. We have become programmed into using the Internet in a specific way and it's hard to stop. So, for those of us who want to get away with using the company computer for our own entertainment do the following:

The first thing you must do is check your computer for key logging software. Key logging software is used to record what you type on the computer, it works in the background of the computer processes, and stores what you typed as a secret text file. How do you check for key logging software? Most anti-spy and anti-viral software can find if your computer has this kind of software installed. Do not erase it! Please remember that this is your company's computer. Unfortunately, there is a second type of key logger, and it is hardware based, which means that it is a physical box that connects between your keyboard and your computer. You can easily located a hardware key logger by looking at you keyboard cable. Check this now. Secure Browsing At Work - Strategies for Secure Browsing At Work.

How To Hide Your Internet Usage.

Now, that you have checked your computer for a key logger it is time to give you a few option for Secure Browsing At Work - Strategies for Secure Browsing At Work. If your work computer is free of any form of key logger, your best step is to purchase a VPN service with encryption. VPN stands for virtual private network, and they work by providing you with an alternative way to connect to the Internet that doesn't use your typical browser of IP Address. These are easy to find and use.

If your computer does have a key logger all is not loss. Your strategy is to purchase or create a jump drive that run it's own browser or operating system on them. This is very easy to do, and the most secure option. What this allows you to do is to plug the jump drive into your USB port, and you run your own secure operating system. This is great because your company will not be able to see what you do! It doesn't alter or hard the computer and once you pull out the jump drive the computer returns to normal. Secure Browsing At Work - Strategies for Secure Browsing At Work.

Use these options to hide from your boss.

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PayPal Password Protection and Security - Three Tips to Stay Safe From Hackers

PayPal is what many of us people use to send and receive money. We're all constantly buying stuff and receiving money through PayPal, so it's best that we keep our accounts safe and away from hackers alike. However, despite most people's disputes, some still get their accounts hacked by people on other computers. It's weird to know that people can actually steal the money in your PayPal account, but it's more than possible. In fact, it happens every single day where hackers steal $50, $100, and even $1,000 from other PayPal accounts. You could be the next victim, so stay away from such people by following the three tips below.

PayPal Password Protection and Security - Three Tips to Stay Safe From Hackers

-Do not open emails that lead to PayPal

This is a very common reason why most people get hacked. Do you ever get emails saying "visit PayPal by clicking HERE"? Those are usually people who plan on hacking you, as you visited the site through there special link, and whatever you do they will remember or know. For example, once you click that link, they will see your activity, along with how much you have in your account. This is pretty scary when you think about it, as people really do make money by having other people's PayPal accounts. If you don't want this to happen, you can simply type in the website address yourself at the address bar.

-Change your password frequently

This will help prevent anybody from getting their accounts hacked. I wouldn't say that you need to change it everyday, but actually on a weekly basis. Try changing it and making it harder every single time you change it. Incorporate a variety of numbers, letters, punctuation, and capitalization, and you should definitely be good to go. Of course, it's going to be harder at first to always remember all the different types of passwords, so just remember to write them down.

-Never give your address or password to anyone

Maybe your family is an exception, but you should still learn to take caution. When buying something online, remember to buy it from somewhere that has a reputation and lots of proof from past users that they're real. This could be a tough task, but just take caution and avoid any possible hacks from happening in your account. Remember that once it's done and all of that money is taken, you can't get it back anymore. So, prevent it from happening rather than waiting for it to happen.

PayPal is a wonderful way to keep your money safe, along with buying safely on the Internet. However, there are a variety of people that are always lurking about trying to get the money inside of your PayPal account. So, be cautious and implement the three tips above. By doing so, you will be able to keep your PayPal safe and away from possible problems in the future. Let's face it, you can't stop the hackers from hacking, so you might as well beat them to it.

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Securing Your Business With a Bank Identification Number System

As an entrepreneur with a business that is primarily dependent on transactions over the Internet, you may be concerned about possible Internet fraud that can adversely impact your business. Internet fraud is very real in today's economic dealings as many are IT savvy with a lot of innovation and determination to benefit their pockets unethically.

Hence, you would need an anti-fraud solution to safeguard your online transactions that offer high security to your business and customers. This is where a bank identification number comes to play.

Possible Fraud Scenarios

A new web business launched on the Internet requires much publicity to boost the web traffic and your business. On the other hand, you are concerned with identifying authentic and fake customers. If you were to receive a high volume order, you might be worried about its legitimacy. How would you confirm the authenticity of the order and enjoy the favorable business order? With so many credit card fraud cases today, you are also faced with that risk when you ship out your products. You stand to lose a lot if the credit card is stolen and there is a dispute over the transaction.

Secure System

With such potential high risk in the business world today, it is crucial to put in place the best form of security for your business. This is especially true for web based businesses. Hence, all businesses should consider using the Bank Identification Number which is the first 6 digits of the credit card as a source of security confirmation on all business transactions. It is one of the best anti-fraud strategies available which is effective to counter Internet fraud.

BIN

The Bank Identification Number (BIN) refers to all types of credit cards' first 6 digits which are known as issuer identification digits. They form a special database which is managed and updated monthly by the banking group American Bankers Association. E-Commerce merchants use this database to confirm the validity of their online transactions.

These BIN digits provide an identification of the issuer bank as well as its country of origin besides confirming the type of card being used in the transaction.

The wide and up-to-date database set up helps you to identify and prevent fraudulent online transactions. There is an online validation execution whenever a credit, debit or prepaid card is swiped through the card machine; it activates the process of cross-checking on the card used for the transaction to confirm or dispel suspicious transactions. If it is a fraudulent card, it will be rejected and the transaction payment will not go through.

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A Tutorial On Computer Security Education

As technology improves and communication becomes much easier, the need to acquire computer security education becomes a reality. This is so because computers are not immune to unauthorized breaks from hackers. However, securing it is not a difficult task as tutorials offering information on their security are available. Aside from this fact, there are a large number of colleges and universities offering network security education.

It is always prudent to use anti-virus soft wares as a means of securing your computer. The primary objective of an anti-virus software is to detect malicious programs that may cause damage and take the necessary steps in protecting it. It is also important to perform a scan operation on any removable storage device in order to be on the safe side.

Installing a reliable firewall software on your computer is always wise. This goes a long way in preventing your browser from accessing certain contents in the internet that are deemed harmful to your computer. As one is browsing, the firewall basically performs a random search for specific keywords and phrases. In the event that any keyword is detected, the browser is blocked from accessing the contents of the site.

Most hackers prefer looking for easy targets such as a workstation which does not have a password. Such a computer is the most vulnerable to attacks. Using a strong password therefore reduces the chances of a break-in on your machine. More so, it is important to be careful while reading any email that contains an attachment. This is because of the fact that hackers usually send attachments with enclosed viruses.

Having a reliable backup system installed is always a good idea. Failure to do so results in the risk of losing data. Loss of data can happen in many ways. One of the most common causes is as a result of viruses or deleting files accidentally. Despite the fact that backing up is important, it falls in the category of the most neglected areas in computing.

The damages caused by hackers are immense. Intrusion always results in the loss of sensitive data and the destruction of an entire network. Stolen information may be used for malicious purposes by the hacker. This in turn may ruin the reputation of the affected individual or company. Over the years, anti-hack programs have proved to be vital tools in tackling hackers. It is therefore wise to make use of one of these soft wares.

Looking out for websites containing viruses is always a great step in securing your machine from hackers. Most internet users get hoodwinked into clicking on links to such websites through their emails. As a protection measure, always ignore such sites. Similarly, never make use of an unsecured wireless network. This reduces the chances of an attack by a hacker.

There are a large number of institutions that offer computer security education. Therefore, showing an interest in these institutions and enrolling in a network security school is a great step towards gaining knowledge. Alternatively, one always has the option of consulting a security specialist.

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Tips For Safe Internet Banking - What You Should Know

Many people now successfully run their bank accounts on the internet, which gives them 24 hour access to their finances. So whether it is a personal or business account, it makes it easy to keep track of how things are going. The potential downside is that important personal details are now also available to anyone who can access this information but providing you are aware of certain practices and you use the security systems on your computer, this should not be a problem.

So what are the things that you need to look out for; the most common ones are phishing, malware and spyware. Phishing occurs when someone tries to get you to reveal information, such as your username and password for various accounts, including your bank account. The word is a play on 'fishing', as the fraudster puts out some bait and hopes that you bite. So what is this bait? It is usually in the form of an e-mail and will claim to be from your bank or other financial institution. It may ask you to verify your account details for their records or it may suggest that your account has already been hacked and they are just trying to sort this out. In the past these messages were easier to recognise as they looked unprofessional and most people were too suspicious to be fooled but now fraudsters are producing messages that look as though they could be from the relevant institution. (As it happens, your bank would never ask you to divulge account details or passwords in an e-mail). These messages may also have links or attachments that you are asked to open. If you do so, it allows the sender to view any information that you type in. You also need to be suspicious if you receive anything that greets you as a 'valued customer', as your bank would use your name. Even if you do reach an official bank website, you need to look out for pop-ups that request similar information. As hackers know that once you have reached a safe site, you are likely to be off your guard.

Malicious software, known as 'malware' is used to gain access to systems, where it can then gather information about the user. The term malware includes worms, viruses and spyware. Worms are computer programmes which use a network to spread that programme to other users on the same network. The particular problem with this is that the user does not need to do anything and would not know there was a problem until something went wrong, or the security system on their computer issued a warning. Viruses, as the name suggests, can replicate themselves and spread to other computers, either through a network or via CDs or DVDs. So you need to be careful about what you run on your system, especially if a programme or device is borrowed from someone. The lender could be just as unaware as you are that there is a problem. Spyware is installed on a computer to collect information about your habits when using the computer, such as which sites you visit. This could be a useful device but if it is on your system you should know about it.

So what do you need to do to bank safely on-line? You need to use up to date anti-virus software and make sure that you always install the latest updates. Do not write down any login names, passwords or PINs. Use secure websites, which will have the locked padlock icon at the bottom of the browser page. When you want to access any system where you put in your financial details, make sure that you type the address details into the web browser. Do not copy or click on links provided in e-mails to reach a website.

Many people now bank on-line and consequently banks, building societies and computing companies are working on your behalf to ensure that you can do so safely. If you receive any requests for information always ask yourself, who is requesting this and why? If you are still unsure, contact your bank and just check to see if it came from them. If you use all the on-line security available and just good old-fashioned common sense. There is no reason why you cannot bank safely on the Internet.

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Online Security For Your Own Safety

The internet continues to be the home for millions of people around the world as people have basically relied on the internet for almost every aspect of their lives. People are now banking, shopping, communicating and even dating on the internet and there really is no signs of the internet slowing down anytime soon. Businesses that are worth millions of dollars are often successful simply because of the existence of the internet. Though there are so many benefits to having the internet become a huge part of our lives, it can often be a dangerous place for people who are clueless about staying safe and secure online. By learning more about safety and security on the internet, you will be able to various things on the internet without having to worry about anything happening.

Facebook Safety

As Facebook continues to be one of the most visited sites on the internet, it also has drawn attention to the website's privacy flaws. Though it is not illegal to announce to your friends where you will be and what time, it can often become a dangerous habit. If you are a person that thrives on having "the most friends" on Facebook, you will then be inviting people who you personally do not know. This leads to possible stalkers, robbers and even murderers knowing where you are and what you are doing. This is very dangerous and it is highly recommended to look through your friends list and to delete every "friend" that you simply cannot trust. By staying low profile on Facebook, it will lead to a safer and more enjoyable experience on the website.

Making Transactions On The Internet Safely

Though Facebook can cause a lot of problems, other websites on the internet are also vulnerable to identity theft and fraudulent actions. When you are making transactions through eBay or any other store online, it is best to only use trusted sites like PayPal. When you are asked to release bank information or make transactions using companies, it is often a red flag and you are possibly talking to someone who is looking to scam you. In order to fully feel safe online, you must keep in mind that almost everything you say and do will be kept on file and there really is not much information on the internet that stays confidential. So if you are looking to buy or sell things online, it is highly recommended to use the most trusted sites.

Learn More To Stay Safe

If you are learning about how staying safe and secure online is important, then you are definitely taking the right steps towards a better experience on the internet. Though many people are very afraid to make any moves on the internet since it is perceived to be very dangerous, with the right information, you should be able to bank, shop, communicate and even date safely on the internet. Just browse with caution and know that people can be watching your every move.

Securing Your Privacy in an Online World   Internet Cyber Security: How Do Firewalls Work?   Using Intrusion Detection System to Combat Unauthorized Actions   VeriSign Secure Site Pro (SGC) With EV SSL for Securing Online Transactions   

5 Tips For Staying On The Safe Side While Surfing The Web

There are many people that surf the internet on a daily basis and what most of them don't know is that they are prone to being the victims of an online attack. In most cases, their data will either end up being read by someone else or even deleted. Nowadays, people use computers not only to have fun, but a lot of them use them to shop around and delve into online banking, so these require a very high level of protection in order for the personal data to not be recorded and be accessed by someone else.

In the following minutes, we will offer a few tips that can keep safe from computer hackers and make your online experience safer and more enjoyable.

1. First of all, you will need to back up your data. This is especially valid if you are someone that works with sensitive data, like online banking information. The mediums on which you can easily store your data depend on the amount of it you need to store, yet most of the times, you will find that the Flash memory sticks and DVDs are a great way to fill this need. Also, there are online storage options, but this only applies if you have a lot of data to store. No matter which of them you choose, do it as soon as possible!

2. You need to update your OS. Any OS is prone to infections and there will always be some security flaws that are not yet taken care of. Yet updates are released frequently and this means that you can increase the level of security your computer has. To make sure you will have all of the updates installed automatically, check the option in your Microsoft OS so that updates are installed without notification.

3. And of course, who can do without a firewall? The Firewall that Windows 7 for instance comes with, is very powerful and you will have a lot of powerful viruses blocked out this way. Trojans, worms and viruses will never stand a chance against a computer that is properly secured. More to that, you should know that there are also hardware firewall programs, so keep that in mind.

4. Do a check on your browser's settings. Most of the times you will see that hackers use Javascript and also ActiveX controls to gain access to someone's computer. Even though you think that cookies can do no harm to you, you should set your browser to delete them at each reboot.

5. Last but not least, make sure that you will employ a very good antispyware program and antivirus solution. Some of the best out there that you can use number Nod32 in terms of antivirus solutions and Spyware Doctor for deferring any spyware infection.

With these tips in mind, you will be 100% protected from infections and your browsing experience will be safer more enjoyable and you will never have to worry about someone accessing your data ever again!

Securing Your Privacy in an Online World   Internet Cyber Security: How Do Firewalls Work?   Paid Vs Free Antivirus Software   Email Archiving Protects Your Data From The Wrong Kind Of People   Using Intrusion Detection System to Combat Unauthorized Actions   VeriSign Secure Site Pro (SGC) With EV SSL for Securing Online Transactions   

Very Important Security Tips for Net Banking

Now a days almost all banks provide us with online/net banking facility. Net banking can be very useful in paying various types of bills online, for online shopping etc.

A week ago one of my friend's online bank account got hacked (accessed by some unknown person)! Her bank account was compromised because she entered her confidential bank related details to some fraud website! So, it's very essential that you maintain security of your net banking account.

Following are some very important security tips for you, if you are also maintaining an online bank account or are going to maintain in near future:

Be careful when responding to emails: you may get emails which seems like they are coming from your bank. The main purpose of such emails is to seek confidential information. This activity is commonly known as phishing. Through such messages, you may get directed to websites which appears to be genuine and will ask you to enter your confidential details - simply discard/delete such emails.

Always Bear in Mind That:

Bank will never ask for any confidential information such as passwords, customer ID, credit card number, PIN, CVV, date of birth and so on over an email! A phishing email will normally have a tone of urgency like Your account will be temporarily suspended and therefore please login to keep your account active. Remember: No bank will send such emails to its customers! If you are doubtful about the credibility of an email, NEVER click on any link in the email. This may trigger malicious code being installed on your PC. Before you share any information on a website in response to an email, always assure that the URL shown in the email matches the URL of the bank's website. If it doesn't, discard such emails Check for the yellow security pad lock icon at the bottom right side of the webpage in your browser, when you are connected to your net banking website.

Ensure your Personal Computer is protected:

Fraudsters send genuine looking emails that contain viruses and trojans. These viruses/trojans, install a malicious code on computer without user knowledge and then they extract confidential information which can be used to access bank accounts!

Here are few Important Action Points that you should always remember:

Keep your PC updated with the latest Anti-Virus/Anti-Spyware software. There are many great free security tools available for your PC Install a Personal Firewall on your PC to protect your account Keep your Operating System updated with the latest security patches Do not click on links or open attachments in unknown or unsolicited (spam) emails Do not to make purchases on unknown sites or sites whose credentials are doubtful

Never transfer funds or share your bank account details with unknown /non-validated sources: many phishing fraudsters are located overseas. They need a money mule to route the money into their country of origin. This can be easy money, but is completely illegal. Such requests may come to you through emails, advertisements, instant messaging/sms, even in news paper advertisements and on social networking sites like Orkut, Facebook etc.

Simply discard such doubtful messages if they are coming from some other country.

Additional Tips:

If your bank provides you with a virtual keyboard on it's net banking login page, than make use of it, especially for typing passwords. Make sure your are using strong password which is uneasy to guess Check if your computer is running any harmful processes - In case it's behaving strangely You can also try Browser Sandboxing and Browser Encryption - Only if you don't have or don't update your security softwares!

If ever, you feel any problem contact your bank immediately. Remember maintaining your bank account security is in your hands only!

Securing Your Privacy in an Online World   Internet Cyber Security: How Do Firewalls Work?   How to Keep Children Safe While Browsing the Internet   VPN Services Vs Proxy Services   

Best Free Internet Filters - 4 Things You Should Know!

The best free Internet filters. I don't know but, didn't I go over this before? Didn't I talk about this "free" thing that everyone seems to be looking for on the Internet? I know I did! But for some reason, no one's listening! You know what it was? I used a different term to describe what we're talking about in this article. I believe the term was: Porn Blockers! Yeah, that's it!

Well whatever the term you use, porn blockers or Internet filters, the results will be the same. It might appear to be free, but it really is not. A s a matter of fact, the same companies that advertise those "free" porn blockers are advertising the "free" Internet filters. Internet filters is just a "politically correct" term for essentially what it is: a porn blocker! So with that being said, I should've written this article a long time ago. Because the last thing that I want is for you people looking for the "best free Internet filters" to fall for the same "okie doke" that those "porn blocker" people fell for! So let's get into it, OK?

First of all I have a question. If you make something that almost everyone in the world will need at some point in their life, are you going to give it away for free? Hm-mm...? Anyone? Of course not! You will try your best to sell that thing as much as you can, and you will also try every trick you have in your arsenal to sell as many as you can! That's what going on with the Internet filter. These companies are advertising it as "free" to get you to download their software. Once their software is on your computer, you have 2 choices.

You can either continue to work with them and protect your kid's innocence OR you can delete their software from your computer. Since they know that most parents will want to continue protecting their children, they know that you will pay.

Pay? Yes, you will have to pay! The best free Internet filters are very hard to find because quite frankly, THEY DON'T EXIST! I hate to be the bearer of bad news to this crowd like I was to the "porn blocker" crowd but, THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A FREE INTERNET FILTER! Let me tell you again what these companies do to get you:

1. They advertise "free" because they know that we ALL like the word free!

2. You download their software onto your PC.

3. After 30 or 60 days (depending on the company...), your "free" trial runs out!

4. Then your "free" trials tells you that to continue protecting your kids PC you will have to pay!

There it is, in a nutshell! That is the extent of your search for the best free Internet filters. I'm sorry if I disappointed you, but it is what it is! There's nothing wrong with looking for a free filter. In this economy, Lord knows that we all need a little relief. But when it comes to this kind of software, it simply doesn't exist!

Securing Your Privacy in an Online World   Internet Cyber Security: How Do Firewalls Work?   VPN Services Vs Proxy Services   Protect Your Website in Minutes With GeoTrust Website Anti-Malware Scan   Using Intrusion Detection System to Combat Unauthorized Actions   VeriSign Secure Site Pro (SGC) With EV SSL for Securing Online Transactions