Downloads and Security - Threat to Security while Downloading Information

Posted Date: 01-Jul-2010		Category: General Security Issues
Author: shivani sathi	Member Level: Gold
Rating:	Points: 20 (Rs 15)

Downloads are one of the major reasons that pose security threat to our computer. In this resource I have mentioned of various sources of downloading, the threats they can pose and the precautions to be taken to avoid those threats.

Precautions while Downloading information

Has your computer become the target for attack ? Wondering why this happened!!! There are hundreds of reasons behind this.

One of the most common reason found behind this is downloading information from various sources while connected to the internet.

Downloading information does not only mean downloading from websites, this also includes downloading the files attached to mails, using ftp to transfer files, transferring files amongst computers connected to a network etc. One has to be very selective and careful while downloading such information. These files/folders/information downloaded sometimes proves to be vehicles for infections like spyware, worms, viruses etc.

The deadly threats these viruses/spyware/worms can pose ranges from data destruction to confidential/sensitive information distribution. This proves to be more destructive when these virus poses threat to the system that you are using at office.

There are viruses/spyware that automatically send mails from your email address with an attachment, which when opened can attack the recipients computer. One more form of spyware comes with the information or files that you download from internet. For example assume you have downloaded some online calculator which comes with a spyware unknown to you. This calculator can gather all the sensitive information like your usernames and passwords of bank websites as and when you type and pass it on to third parties who can misuse them.

To avoid the above mentioned risks make sure of the following things:

1) Make sure the Windows firewall is always turned ON.

2) Always update your windows to the latest releases.

3) Install an anti-virus software.

4) Always turn on the spam filter in your email account which blocks unwanted messages.

5) Make sure you have an anti-spyware on your computer.

6) Think twice before opening an attachment. Scan it, and if found infected never open it and discard the mail immediately.

7) Do not click on links that are sent in instant messaging which can prove very harmful to your computer.

8) Never click on links that say You have won a prize when you are browsing through some sites.

9) Never click on OK without verifying what you are clicking on.

10) Do not run any software that gives a warning in RED.

11) Verify the digital signature of a link or software before downloading or installing.

12) Be very careful while accepting files from other computers on the network.

Be sure to follow these steps and you would be very much saved from the attacks on your computer.

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