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Network Security General Topics When your computer is connected to the Internet, it's a possible target for break-in, so it's important that you take measures to protect it. With high-speed connections such as Ethernet, cable modem or DSL, your computer is connected to the Internet whenever it is turned on, not just when you're actively using it. Computers using dialup modems are vulnerable only when you have established a dialup connection to your Internet Service Provider. Intruders can cause problems in many ways: they can compromise your system, gain access to stored personal documents, steal personal nformation that could lead to identity theft, steal your account and password information for other systems, send out unsolicited mass e-mail, spread viruses, and or use your computer to break into other computers. Following are a number of steps you can take to ensure your computer is protected. No one thing is a “silver bullet” that can repel all break-in attempts, but these recommendations should better protect your computer from most threats. Run antivirus software and keep it updated. It's one of the easiest and best things you can do to keep your computer safe. Many antivirus programs catch not only the usual computer viruses but also malicious software that invaders use to break into your computer. Refer to the Computer Viruses article for more information. Keep security patches updated. Operating systems and programs occasionally have vulnerabilities that are not discovered until after the product has been released. To fix these problems, manufacturers issue patches, usually free, which are files you can download and install to repair the vulnerability. Newer versions of Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems have a built-in function to check for critical updates to the operating system when connected to the Internet. For any installed software, make sure you have enabled its "auto update" feature. Depending on the programs you have installed, some may require updates that built-in checks do not cover. In these cases (usually relating to network services), it's a good idea to watch the manufacturer's page for security updates. For advanced, proactive protection on some Windows operating systems (Windows NT 4.0, 2000, and XP) use the Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MSBA), a program that scans Windows-based computers for common security misconfigurations. Use firewalls, an important form of protection for Internet-connected computers. Refer to the firewalls article to learn how they operate on networks and on personal computers. Beware of spyware. Some viruses and intruders can secretly install spyware (also known as “adware” or “malware”) on your Internet-connected computer to invade your privacy (often by keeping track of what web pages you visit) or to collect personal and confidential information for identity theft, or just to annoy you with pop-up ads. These programs also can be secretly included in other programs you may download and install from the Internet. Refer to the spyware article to learn more about these malicious programs and how to guard against them. Use strong passwords on any account you set up, and on your own computer, so that others may not use it. Don't share your password with friends, family or roommates. If you have any file sharing or other network services enabled from your computer, protect them with good passwords as well. Refer to the passwords article to learn how to create strong, effective passwords. Never run unknown programs. It is never safe to run unknown or unverified programs, nor open unknown or unexpected e-mail attachments (even from someone you know) until you have first verified the contents of the attachment from the source. Be wary of software you've downloaded off the Internet. Try to confirm that you've downloaded the correct copy of the program and always scan the file for viruses using a current antivirus program with the latest virus definitions. Be careful about clicking “OK” when your browser asks you about executing anything, such as Active-X components, or when saving and installing software offered through e-mail or Instant Messaging. These are especially common modes of entry for spyware, or the programs could be viruses or backdoor installations allowing intruders easy access to your files. If you receive an e-mail or Instant Message with suspicious links that appears to come from someone you know, don't click on the links. Reply to the sender first and ask for clarification. For more information on network security, consult the OIT Network Security Group's FAQ. The National Cyber Security Alliance says that cybersecurity is “Everybody's Responsibility.” Check their website for tips on keeping your computing safe. |
Quick Tips Network intruders can cause problems from compromised computer systems to identity theft Guard your networked computer with antivirus software, strong passwords, firewalls, and security patches Learn about spyware Never run unknown programs |
| OIT | Office of CIO | TELR |
