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.

Develop hands-on, industry relevant skills in Technology accreditation, and take the first steps towards a challenging new career.

Computer Education Vocational Studies

Computer Education Vocational Studies introduces students to the many aspects of computer technology. Depending on the school, the computer course may include the subjects of programming, software development, web development, problem-solving, troubleshooting, and computer graphics, to name a few. The best part is students can gain the analytical skills, hands-on experience, and technological know-how necessary in today's rapidly expanding technological marketplace.

A vocational computer education allows students to concentrate on developing a basic understanding of computers; they may specialize in digital electronics, artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer networks, operating systems, information technology (IT) or computer design. Computer education programs in technology teach the various basic science and engineering concepts through lectures and laboratory classroom study.

Students in vocational computer education programs can expect to develop expertise in all computer functions and know-how in computer applications. Once basic comprehension in the foundations of computer functions is developed, students can opt to choose more advanced computer education courses, such as the uses of computer hardware and software and computer networking. Advanced students can study the application of methods and technology to solve computer problems.

Programs of study in vocational computer education programs can net the student a certificate or an associate degree in Computer Science. Students may opt for an emphasis on web development, networks, databases, information security, or technical support.

If you are interested in learning more about a Computer Education and accredited Computer Schools or Online Computer Schools, research our website today and find the right school for you!

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved by SchoolsGalore.com, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc.

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Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Find Vocational Schools, Trade Schools, Colleges, Universities, and Online Schools at SchoolsGalore.com, your educational resource to locate schools.

Report: Combined Consumer Education and Increased Security Measures Equal Reduced Identity Fraud

While surfing the 'net, I came across a report about the reduction of identity theft and identity fraud. Obviously, it caught my attention. Following, in part, is that report which was produced by Javelin Strategy & Research, and co-sponsored by CheckFree Corporation, Visa Card, and Wells Fargo & Co.

While identity theft remains a multi-billion-dollar problem for businesses, organizations, and individuals, incidents of the fraud dropped significantly last year, according to a report.

Identity fraud occurring in the United States declined in 2006 by 12 percent over the year before, from $55.7 billion to $49.3 billion, according to the third-annual survey by Javelin Strategy & Research. The survey, which involved 5,000 telephone interviews, estimated the number of victims dropped for the fourth consecutive year by about 500,000 to 8.4 million persons.

Researchers attributed the decline to better consumer education and awareness and increased use of online banking and financial sites that allow closer monitoring of accounts. "Businesses are doing a lot more, law enforcement is doing more, and so are consumers," said James Van Dyke, president of Javelin, a research company in Pleasanton, Calif., specializing in financial services and payments.

Tena Friery, research director at the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, a nonprofit consumer organization in San Diego, said she was surprised by the size of the decline but said there is much greater public awareness. "We still have a long way to go," she said.

According to the report, there was a significant reduction in fraudulent new-account openings, traditionally one of the most common kinds of fraud. It occurs when a criminal uses a victim's personal data to open a new account.

The survey also found that it takes on average less time and expense to resolve a fraud case than last year. When fraudulent accounts are opened, the average fraud amounts dropped from more than $10,000 in 2005 to $7,260 in 2006. Resolution times dropped from an average of 25 hours in 2005 to five hours in 2006.

Van Dyke said one reason the numbers are down is that businesses are "screening account applicants much more closely."

Individuals and consumer groups have long argued that extra screening was needed because conflicting application information, such as two addresses, could indicate identity fraud.

One group that isn't doing better, according to the report, is 18- to 24-year olds. This age group was more likely to become a victim of identity theft than other age groups. (See sure to read my related article, Your Child's First Year at College: Prime Target for Identity Theft?).

The report references offline criminal activities; however, I do believe that incidents of identity theft have remained unchanged online. One example is stated above, with cybercriminals targeting recent high school graduates and college freshmen. Unfortunate victims, these graduates and college freshmen provide extremely lucrative opportunities for the cybercriminals to obtain their personal information. Even before they start their first careers, these graduates and college students will, most likely, be crippled by identity theft.

To protect yourself, you need an internet security team of experts making sure that you, your family, and your business computer are always safe and secure. The best protection you can have in today's rapidly changing world of cyber-attacks is to have expert support for all your Internet security needs that will provide technical support without any hassles and without charging you extra fees. It will become even more critical than it is today as time goes on. You need to find your own personal team of experts to rely on. If you ever have a security problem, you will want to have a trusted expert you can call for professional help, without any hassles and extra costs!

Because cybercriminals are becoming smarter and more sophisticated in their operations, they are real threats to your personal security and privacy. Your money, your computer, your family, and your business are all at risk.

These cybercriminals leave you with three choices:

1. Do nothing and hope their attacks, risks, and threats don't occur on your computer.

2. Do research and get training to protect yourself, your family, and your business.

3. Get professional help to lockdown your system from all their attacks, risks, and threats.

Remember: When you say "No!" to hackers and spyware, everyone wins! When you don't, we all lose!

� MMVII, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, The Internet Safety Advocate and Educator

Etienne A. Gibbs, Independent Internet Security Advocate and Educator , consults with individuals, small business owners, and home-business entrepreneurs regarding online protection against spyware, viruses, malware, hackers, and other pc-disabling cybercrimes. For more information, visit http://www.SayNotoHackersandSpyware.com/.