Monday 8 August 2011

Threats to security

Threats to Security

Viruses can arrive as file attachments via e-mail, as embedded files on a CD-DVD or USB, and as clickable graphics in an e-mail or web advertising. All computers are at risk, particularly if connected to a network. Once on your system, these files are difficult to detect and remove. Viruses are malicious-dangerous computer code, typically designed to damage, that often duplicate and infect your computer files and operating system (OS).

Malware is a generic term for spyware & adware and can be installed without the user ever knowing. If you visit a compromised website, open an email or install a program, it is possible for the Malware author to exploit your PC's operating system to enable remote access or software installation e.g. of pop-ups, Trojans, worms, viruses, file sharing servers and keyloggers.
Another use of a compromised PC is to use it as a fileserver to allow the storage and sharing of copyrighted and illegal material.
Malware can be used for Identity theft by the installation of keyloggers which record every key press and mouse action. This allows for username & passwords, bank details, HR data etc to be captured and relayed to a remote hacker for fraudulent uses. The Malware will cause the PC to slow down and may cause the PC to crash frequently resulting in reduced productivity and perhaps lost work. If left for to long it may result in a need for the PC to need re-formatting to remove all the damage that has been done to the systems files. This can be lengthy and would require a full back up of the PC.

Spyware

is a type of malicious software that installs itself on your computer without your informed consent and uses your computer to generate a profit for the software makers. Some Spyware tracks your use of the computer and reports it to the author for marketing purposes or worse. Other packages use your computer to access web sites with adverts, call premium call numbers or any number of other activities. Most people become aware of the existence of Spyware only when their PC has slowed down to a crawl, but it is in fact a very common problem.

http://studentzone.roehampton.ac.uk/itservices/onlinethreats/index_new.html
http://knol.google.com/k/how-online-security-threats-can-damage-your-computer

No comments:

Post a Comment