Internet Threats
Internet-based threats expose people and computer systems to harm online. A broad scope of dangers fits into this category, including well-known threats like phishing and computer viruses.
Here are some of the threats you should be aware of when using the Internet:
Malware - stands for malicious software.
Virus - a malicious program designed to replicate itself and transfer from one computer to another either through the Internet and local networks or data storage like flash drives and CDs.
Worm - a malicious program that transfers from one computer to another by any type of means. Often, it uses a computer network to spread itself. For example, the ILOVEYOU worm (Love Bug Worm) created by a Filipino.
Trojan - a malicious program that is disguised as a useful program but once downloaded or installed, leaves your PC unprotected and allows hackers to get your information.
*Rogue security software — tricks the user into posing that it is a security software. It asks the user to pay to improve his/her security but in reality, they are not protected at all.
Spyware — a program that runs in the background without you knowing it (thus called "spy"). It has the ability to monitor what you are currently doing and typing through keylogging.
*Keyloggers — used to record the keystroke done by the users. This is done to steal their password or any other sensitive information. It can record email, messages, or any information you type using your keyboard.
Adware — a program designed to send you advertisements, mostly as pop-ups.
Spam — unwanted email mostly from bots or advertisers. It can be used to send malware.
Phishing - Its goal is to acquire sensitive personal information like passwords and credit card details. This is done by sending you an email that will direct the user to visit a website and be asked to update his/her username, password, credit card, or personal information.
*Pharming - a more complicated way of phishing where it exploits the DNS (Domain Name Service) system. Redirects internet users to fake websites to steal personal or financial information.
Here are things you might want to consider before posting something over the Internet:
Before you post something on the web, ask these questions to yourself:
Would you want your parents or grandparents to see it?
Would you want your future boss to see it?
Once you post something on the web, you have no control of who sees your posts.
Your friends depend on you to protect their reputation online. Talk to your friends about this serious responsibility.
Set your post to "private." In this way, search engines will not be able to scan that post.
Avoid using names. Names are easy for search engines to scan.
If you feel that a post can affect you or other's reputation, ask the one who posted it to pull it down or report it as inappropriate.
