Spyware, Anti-Virus Software, and Computer Security




Introduction
Security Overview
Hackers
Firewalls
Viruses
Anti-Virus Software
Spyware & Popups
Cookies & Privacy
Links
Other
Site Map


Introduction



The young man looks at the clock. Geesh, he thinks, "it's 2:00 AM and not a single score." The computer purrrs in the background as he takes a slug of coffee. Suddenly he sits up! Whats this, ah yes a possible target.

His temple starts to pound as his fingers fly across the keyboard. He quickly runs another script, "YES I'm in". Now his hands are sweaty and his heart is pounding as he starts to explore his new conquest.

"But first let's drop this little "backdoor" in here so I can start monitoring the activity on this little jewel."

Guess what, you have just been hacked!

Unknown to hundreds of unsuspecting users and companies the above scenario takes place time after time.



"We're not trained to be suspicious of each other. We are taught to 'love thy neighbor' and have trust and faith in each other. We know that all people are not kind and honest, but too often we live as if they were."

Kevin Mitnick

Kevin is probably the best known hacker in history. He is now a security expert helping companies to protect their networks from security breaches. He has also co-authored a book called "The Art Of Deception" that dives into the world of hacking with examples of cons and intrusions of hacking. He also offers advice on how to prevent being victimized by similar cons and intrusions in his book. The above quote is from his book.

Keep the above quote in mind as you read this book. Now also keep the below quote in mind as well.

"Security to a degree involves trust. Therein lies the problem. Human Nature."

Gary Knuckles, 2003


Many times in today's fast paced world, we rush to get things done as quickly as possible. This applies to many new users of the Internet as well. They get their computer and Internet service and can't wait to get started, overlooking the fact that they may compromise their privacy, and the health and stability of their computer system as well.

HUH! Health of my computer system you say? Yes, your system can get "sick" just like us humans, especially if it gets one of the many viruses or trojan horses that run rampant today on the Internet. That is the purpose of this book, to explain some of the possible hazards that exist on the Internet and possible ways and software programs to help prevent falling victim to these potential hazards.

Since the Internet has become so popular it's usage continues to increase at astounding rates, bringing with it even more possible abuse and hazards. Email usage is at an all time high and so is the creation of viruses that take advantage of possible weak spots or holes in email software.

Other hazards are trojan horses, spyware and of course hackers who would like nothing better than to break into your system.

Once they have gained access they can possibly get your credit card information, use your system for attacking other systems, or just destroy all the information on your system.

Some hackers just like the thrill of breaking into a system, snoop around some, and then leave, unfortunately don't count on it.

So grab your favorite beverage, get comfortable and lets start exploring how you can secure your system from the outside world. Please note that even the most secure system may not be totally secure from hackers and viruses, unless it is unplugged from the power source.

NOTE: If you happen to be a hacker (or cracker) reading this ebook let me acknowledge that I do know a system can't be fully protected and any system can be compromised. Please don't take this ebook as an invitation or challenge to attack my web sites or computers as I'm fully aware that you can accomplish the task given enough determination….grin….

What this ebook isn't. It is not a "tell you all about how to do it" type ebook but rather a guide to point you in the right direction. Many volumes would have to be written to tell you about security and how to do it in specific detail.

Especially when considering the many software packages available today for firewalls, viruses and the many other threats faced by computer users today.

Instead this ebook is designed as a map to help better understand the threats, and some possible solutions for them and where to find and research the solution best for your circumstances. It also includes where to find free software to protect your computer.

With that in mind let's get started.


Next




Disclaimer:

Any programs or sites we suggest are strictly suggestions. Any use of these sites or programs are done by you the user, with that knowledge. We will not be responsible for any problems or damage through the use of the information in this book. All the content is for informational purposes only and we are not responsible for any programs or content from other persons, software, or websites or any other source.

 

All rights reserved 2003-2005 © BudgetWare, Inc.