Using the internet is a lot like driving. You have to be aware. You have to be on the defense and prepare an offense. If you don't have a defensive or offensive strategy, you’re likely to wreck your computer. You might have to pay for the damages yourself. You might not be able to recover from those damages or injuries, and, no matter what the television says, getting someone to pay for your bills when you’ve been injured in an accident is not easy.
Some people could become afraid of the risks and refuse to use the internet. Others use the internet without considering any of the dangers until they’ve been injured. Still others weigh the risks and watch for the danger zones:
- Malware. Malware continues to invade people’s computers in a variety of ways. Anti-spam and anti-virus software helps, but it doesn’t provide a guarantee against infection. You have to pay attention and ensure that you’re visiting the right sites. You have to refuse to open email attachments from sketchy email addresses. You have to keep your anti-spam and anti-malware software up to date.
- Windows XP. Windows XP has gaping holes in its security, and they aren’t going to be repaired. Your best - and really only - option is to upgrade to Windows 7.
- Computer kiosks. Public computers always are a risk. You can’t be certain they’re free of malware. If you choose to use them, make sure you’re not visiting sites that require you to enter your email address, username, or password.
- Public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi means unsecured connections. It has the same dangers associated with it that computer kiosks do. If you’re planning to access sensitive information, it’s best to wait until you can use a secure connection.
- Man-in-the-middle attacks. Man-in-the-middle attacks often occur in public Wi-Fi settings. You enter your information at a website, and the information is sent to both the wrong website - the “man in the middle” - and the correct one. You’ll never notice the attack until you receive a “surprise” bill in your email or mailbox.
- Phishing. Phishing scams usually are found in the emails from the rich uncle in Nigeria or the stranded woman in London. The scams are becoming more sophisticated and targeted; therefore, you should use caution when deciding to click on any sort of link purportedly shared by one of your friends via email or a social network.
- Passwords. The advice cannot be given enough: do not use the same password at multiple sites. If you’re concerned about remembering passwords, you can invest in password software.
What danger zones would you add? Let us know in the comments.
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