INTERNET SECURITY
The media is full off reports about spam, virus's, spyware and all the other internet nasties you would think it was all a new threat, in 2003 our webmaster produced this simple guide below and the advice still stands good today in 2007.
The Internet is a tremendous source of fun, information
and education however as with anything in life it can be exploited by
those who may not have the same values in life as yourself. We have
syndicated from many sources to bring you our guide to help you stay
safe on the net.
When you first connect your computer to the Internet you should first
make sure you have software installed to protect you and your computer
from viruses. Computer virus can corrupt your machine, you will have
seen much on the television about computer worms and Trojans these can
also steal your identity or breakdown your internet security. Remember
if you don't protect your computer you risk compromising your security
and any one else's you send an email too.
At the bottom of this guide we have added links to free downloads to help you protect yourself
Follow the guide
below
Getting started:
1) If you are unsure if your pc is infected with a virus you should check it out now! Click here..
2) If you are unsure if your pc may contain spyware check it now ! click here..
3 ) If you are unsure if your pc contains worms click check it out now !
Q: What is spyware ?
A: spyware" refers to small, hidden programs that are embedded in larger applications to report information to advertisers. These programs are included in some shareware and freeware programs, they can also be used to gain personal information for illegal activity.
Q: What is a worm?
A: Worms are self-replicating virus that do not alter files but reside in active memory and duplicate them self. Worms use parts of an operating system that are automatic and usually invisible to the user. It is common for worms to be noticed only when their uncontrolled replication consumes system resources, slowing or halting other tasks.
Q: What is Phishing?
A: phishing (sometimes called carding or brand spoofing) is a scam where the perpetrator sends out legitimate-looking e-mails appearing to come from your bank or some of the Web's biggest sites, including eBay, PayPal, MSN, Yahoo, BestBuy, and America Online, in an effort to fish for personal and financial information from the recipient. Never reply to a request for information via an unsecure email. Contact the sender by phone if you are concerned. Most of the phishing is done in bulk so it would start with "Dear Customer, Dear ebay user, Dear Member" It would be rare to have your name on the email but not impossible.
Q: Can my emails be read by others?
A: Yes, emails should be treated like post cards. Email is not a safe form of sending important information, this is why the Credit Union ask that you do not send personal information via email the Credit Union provide SSL forms to protect its members personal information whilst in cyberspace.
Q: What is SSL ?
A: Secured Sockets Layer is a protocol that transmits your communications over the Internet in an encrypted form. SSL ensures that the information is sent, unchanged, only to the server you intended to send it to. Online shopping sites frequently use SSL technology to safeguard your credit card information. Before sending information on a SSL sites make sure the site name begins with https: and not just http, in addition you should see a closed padlock on your own browser. (Bottom Left)
Q: I have read in the press about Microsoft Critical updates, what is critical updates ?
A: Critical updates are made available from Microsoft when exploits are discovered in the software, it is very important to download these updates and to regularly check for updates.
Q: How can I protect my computer from virus's?
A: See bottom of this page for a free download of AVG anti-virus program. Remember to keep it upto date as this is very important.
Q: How can I protect my computer from Trojans etc. ?
A: See bottom of this page for a free download of a Firewall program. Remember to keep it upto date as this is very important. If you use AOL Broadband they provide a free Mcfee Firewall as a download.
Q: Now that I have protected my computer from virus's and other nasties, how do I protect my children from the things I read about in the newspapers etc ?
A: We are not the best people to advise on this subject, you should visit the icra site by clicking here. they offer very good information and software to help keep you loved ones safe.
Q: Would the Credit Union ever ask me to update my Membership details via the net?
A: No. If you are ever asked in this way you should phone the Credit Union.
Downloads
Free Virus detector : Provided by AVG (The Credit Union publish virus threats on our home page)
Free Firewall : Provided by Zone Labs (select free download)
Free Adware and spyware protection ( You will be amazed at the results.)
Microsoft Critical updates (Check for free updates)
The above will help you secure your computer. These helpful hints have been provided by one of the Credit Unions Computer advisers and is intended to provide links to other sites, we are not responsible for content of other sites, additionally users should satisfy themselves of compatibility of software before installing on any computer. The above does not guarantee 100% protection.