This week we learned about Computer Security, Ethics, and Privacy. Computer security is an important issue and one that many people do not take seriously enough. There are different types of security risks that a computer user should be aware of. These include loss of data due to hardware loss such as your laptop or phone getting stolen, preventing yourself from hacker attacks, viruses, and Phishing and also email and message security.
People create viruses for a number of reasons. Some are to make money by giving a user the virus then selling that same person a removal tool. Others make viruses to get credit on the internet, for bragging rights, or just because they can. It is very important that users protect themselves by running a anti virus program on their computer, installing a router and closing off vulnerable ports on their router.
A Phishing scam is when someone makes a fake email or website which looks and appears real in all ways except it is not. Its only purpose it to get user information. Users are especially vulnerable when connecting to open wireless networks in which their network data can more easily be redirected or captured.
We also learned about software piracy. Piracy is a breach in contract of the EULA in which case the user usually illegally copies the data and may make money distributing it. It is important to know that software piracy costs companies a lot of money and raises prices for normal paying users. It is illegal and pirates face jail time for their actions. It is also important never to reply to SPAM. Spammers send out random emails to addresses and if you reply you are showing them that you are a real person and you will continue to get bombarded by even more SPAM. It is recommended to use a free email which you don't care about to sign up for services which may sell or use your email.
That's it for this week. :)
No comments:
Post a Comment