How can I protect myself while online?

How can I protect myself while online?

Taggings:

Submitted by Erwin Raab on Wed, 12/14/2011 - 11:35
2 answers

Solution: How can I protect myself while online?

- use a firewall and virus scanner: these days, worms and other malware are running rampant on the internet. The amount of attacks per randomized IP address over time is so high that an unprotected Windows XP system will often be corrupted before protective software can be installed. (http://isc.sans.edu/survivaltime.html)
- disable JavaScript: JavaScript can be abused to insert malicious functionality. Disable it to be 100% safe that it won't be used, otherwise be very careful about which sites you visit

Submitted by Frieder Ulm on Thu, 12/15/2011 - 12:40

Taggings:

act carefully :)

-) Verify data is encrypted

When sending confidential information over the Internet such as usernames, passwords, or credit card numbers only send it securely (i.e. via SSL-encryption). To verify this, newer browsers indicate a correct encryption with a green address bar in the browserwindow.
Also make sure, the URL begins with https://
If a webpage is not secure, such as an online forum, use a password you wouldn't use with protected sites such as your online banking website.

-) E-mail is not encrypted

E-mail (per default) is not encrypted and if intercepted by a third-party could be easily read.

-) Be aware of phishing scams

Familiarized yourself with phishing scams and techniques, which are used to trick you into divulging your account information. Online banking sites, Paypal, EBay, Amazon, and other popular sites that require logins are popular targets.

-) Use a safe password

Websites that store confidential data, such as an online bank site need to use strong passwords. Also, it is highly recommended that you use a different password for each website that requires a login.

-) Use caution when accepting or agreeing to prompts

When prompted to install any program or add-on make sure to read and understand the agreement before clicking on the Ok button. If you do not understand the agreement or feel it is not necessary to install the program cancel or close the window.

Additionally, when installing any program watch for any check box that asks if it's ok to install a third-party program, toolbar, etc. These are never required and often cause more issues than good. Leave these boxes unchecked.

-) Be aware of those around you

While at work, university, library, or anywhere that has people around who could look at the monitor be cautious of anyone shoulder surfing. Someone could watch you type in your password, which would give them access to your account.

-) Update browser plugins

Often many attackers find security vulnerabilities through browser plugins. Make sure all installed Internet plug-ins are up-to-date.

Submitted by Erwin Raab on Wed, 12/14/2011 - 11:44