One way to keep you safe while being online is to know the truth and do away with internet myths.
Myth #1: Attention-seeking teens sabotage your computer.
Truth #1: Fame for teenagers is not a priority. What they want is to get rich. The culprit is organized crime by cyber experts who go online to place malwares on computers for money. They hack computers and take over them to send spam, steal accounts and credit card information to ask for transfers from contacts, and raid online game accounts, which could earn them a huge sum of money by selling in-game priced items for real currency. Cyber criminals have cost such a great loss of money, identity, reputation and important documents, for internet users from businessmen to innocent citizens.
Myth #2: Good antivirus software will solve everything.
Truth #2: Although a good antivirus program will greatly help, there is no guarantee of total security. In fact, there is a constant battle between antivirus manufacturers and cyber criminals where one gives the greatest effort to stay one step ahead of the other. Antivirus softwares have proven its promises by defending attacks, but loopholes are unfortunately assaulted by the criminals. Therefore, aside from a good antivirus program, there is a need for more security softwares for greater defense.
Myth #3: Attacks are site-dependent, be cautious where you surf.
Truth #3: This would be true if we were to go back in time. But after years of technology improvement, you could not easily claim a site to be dangerous just by sight, nor can we live without antivirus even though we are careful with our emails. Experts have eyed hacked and assaulted web pages, emails, and well-respected company sites and are seen to be rampant. Cyber criminals utilize blemishes in the installed security software where they could insert malware, and thus, this teaches us that apart from antivirus software, it would require us to have antispyware, anti-rootkit, and a two-directional powerful firewall of techies to keep us safe from cyber-crime.
Myth #4: Fix only what's broken.
Truth #4: Sometimes, you would have to believe what you don't see because nasty hidden applications, threats, documents, and registry keys can only be removed by advanced anti-rootkit technology.
Myth #5: Safest place: don't go online.
Truth #5: So false! If you just prepare sufficiently ahead for the coming risks, then you can enjoy the Web. Just follow these guidelines for safety:
- At the start, install an antivirus (with antispyware), anti-rootkit, and a bidirectional firewall.
- Always be sure that your computer acquires security updates everyday, automatic upgrading to latest softwares and full security software support.
- Daily check your computer for malware and end any malicious codes before it's too late.
- Obtain protection programs for emails and attachments.
- Create a team of computer techs to regularly clean your computers and make them run smoothly.
Don't be deceived, we're not yet doomed! Cyber-crimes may be prevented with the right tactics. The internet is a blessing to the world - enjoy the Web and everything it has to offer.
Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of internet security.
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