Cyber threats come in many forms and are capable of causing widespread disruption to any internet user. Whether individuals use the service for fun or corporations and businesses use it professionally, safe browsing is essential.
Naturally, online security packages and antivirus software are some of the first products which individuals choose to protect themselves from cyber criminals.
Whilst investing in reputable products is highly recommended that this is not the only defence used to achieve online security. Each type of cyber crime should be addressed meaning a comprehensive internet security package is required.
Antivirus
The first line of defence to tackle numerous threats is antivirus software. Crimeware, which is malicious software installed on your computer, is often transferred via email attachments and can enable cyber criminals to view the screen of your computer or record keys pressed when typing. This information can then be used to obtain sensitive information, such as your online banking login details, allowing criminals access to your bank account and money.
Antivirus software protects against this by scanning attachments and links to ensure you are not exposed to these risks. It is important to obtain this software from a reputable source as some cyber criminals will disguise malicious software as antivirus programs in order to fool users into downloading their malware.
A report in The Guardian from last year detailed how an online scam had encouraged individuals to pay for an antivirus program which was actually empty software. Cyber criminals achieved this by informing their victims that they had contracted a virus and urged them to download their false security system in order to eradicate it. By downloading a bogus program, unsuspecting users gave the criminals access to their computers, via the ‘antivirus’ software, enabling them to wreak havoc.
Firewall
A firewall is a piece of software that creates a protective barrier between your computer and potentially damaging content on the internet.
This prevents unauthorised users, such as hackers, from accessing sensitive data on your computer, ensuring that any potential threats are identified and denied access. Firewall services are also designed to make your computer ‘invisible’ when connected to networks.
Anti-phishing
These are sites designed to mimic legitimate services such as banks. The fake pages can exist for as little as one hour and are designed to fool individuals into inputting their personal details or transferring money into a fraudulent account. Comprehensive security packages will usually offer some form of anti-phishing protection. This will check the validity of website addresses to prevent you from accessing a false page by mistake.
User controls
Lastly, it is important that all users have adequate protection when using the internet. Children can be exposed to a much greater level of risk than adults and may not have the knowledge or experience needed to identify potential threats. Parental controls allow you to restrict the access children have to websites on the internet, keeping them and your computer safe.
These features often come included in comprehensive security packages and you can choose to download a free trial before investing in an annual internet security solution to ascertain whether it will be suitable for your needs.
