If there’s one thing about myths or urban legends about Internet security, it’s probably the fact that these stories actually put people on their toes and realize that the threat is real online. This is probably what you would call human adaptation wherein extra work for self-preservation is exerted in times of perceived danger. Fear of their computers being hacked, fear of losing their files due to viruses, fear of having their identities stolen – these are things that could work well for anyone. These are things that heighten the need for security measures to be implemented. The problem is when what is believed to be true is actually the contrary of what is, indeed true. Then there is a lack of significant effort to achieve Internet security or even an absence of it.
Right now, there’s a good number of misconceptions about Internet security issues which, when left uncorrected, could actually lead to more risks for the user. One is the belief that viruses, worms, Trojans and other types of malware are but an accidental product of troubled teenagers who happen to be skilled in computers. In reality, malware can consist of programs created by professionals and can dig deep and hard into your system and wreak complete havoc. The myth might be partly true as any of these professional hackers could be any age, even teenagers, but to think that these are mere products of youth angst is an understatement. Malware is created for the specific purpose of destroying computers and these malware programmers make money by selling their software and services to people who then use them to destroy other computers. In other words, malware is commercialized violence by hackers.
Some people also think dubious websites can be as dangerous as the real malware. They lead you to think that visiting a dubious website leads to your computer being hacked by means of malware. It’s only when you start visiting real websites that you start getting attacked by malware. So, real websites are actually safer than fake websites. We’ll give you an example of how false Internet safety ads can make you a victim.
There was a popular adware called FakeNetProtect. This adware is attributed with putting false videos on the internet. These adshelves contain harmfulcontent like advertisement, spying, stealing information, popups, worms, etc.
When you open a Dangerous URL, it could apparently contact a certain person who is skilled in programming. That person might be a hacker who wanted to try his hand at writing malware. If you’ll click on the adshelves, it’ll likely start infecting your computer. When it’s in your system, it can potentially delete files and cause havoc on your computer.
Phishing websites are also getting more dangerous by the day. Phishing is becoming a popular method of cyber crimes by skilled hackers who are actually good. They’ll use fake websites looking like real ones. In general, you’ll receive an email requesting information or possibly access to your bank account, credit card or other personal details.
To avoid adware and phishing, many people are turning to free adware and privacy test tools offered by online. No matter how you choose to protect yourself, though, it might be good idea to make sure your system is updated regularly. Keeping your system up-to-date will make it easier to filter unwanted information.
Spam messages are generally the chief concern of Internet users. However, keeping yourself free from other sites that might contain spam is another story. Actually, keeping yourself free from spam is quite easy. Accepting the terms of service of a website is one of the easiest ways to protect your computer from unwanted programs. If you’re ever placed in a situation when you suspect your computer is infected, the first thing you should do is scan your computer system. Once you’re done scanning, you can delete the files to permanently remove the infection.
Installing antivirus software is another way to protect your computer from infections. Antivirus software works to keep other sites where you enter information or which contain files you don’t want installed on your computer. Furthermore, it will check files as they are downloaded which may be infected.
