Nearly all of us will experience some form of attack through our computers. Here's an overview of some of the most common kinds of technology nasties out there, and ways you can avoid them.
Spam
Spam is junk email, texts or phone calls. Usually they're just advertising something. But they might contain harmful programs that can infect and damage your computer. Some scammers might call you and try to collect personal information like your address and credit card number.
If you receive spam, DELETE IT! Use a spam filter to block unwanted emails and don’t put your personal details on social media. There are automated programs called 'spiders' that are used to browse the web to collect info like addresses and phone numbers for spammers.
Adware, spyware and malware
These guys range from annoying to harmful. They're little bits of software that secretly install themselves onto your computer when you're online.
- adware can cause constant pop-ups
- spyware can log your keystrokes (this is one way to find out what your passwords and credit card details are)
- malware can corrupt your computer or phone beyond repair
Adware, spyware and malware infect your computer or phone when you open spam, click on pop-ups, share files, visit dodgy websites or download certain software, so the message is: think before you click!
There is heaps of software out there (similar to anti-virus software) to guard against these three - a quick search will turn up some freebies, but make sure you're getting them from a reputable source.
Hackers
Hackers are people who try to break into your computer and take control of it. They use software that can easily crack your password, especially if it's weak.
Use a strong password that is:
- at least eight characters long
- has a mix of letters (upper and lower case), numbers and characters
- not something other people know, like the name of your dog, cat or favourite ice-cream flavour
Phishing and pharming
Phishing is a hoax email or message sent to you to try and trick you into sending back personal info such as:
- bank account or credit card details
- usernames
- passwords
- driver's licence card number
Often these messages claim to be coming from a trusted source, like a bank.
To avoid phishing, NEVER provide private or sensitive information - like passwords or bank details - over email or text. If the message asks you to click on a link, type it into your browser yourself instead and if there is a number to call, check it on the bank’s website before you call the number in the email.
Pharming is where a hacker forces your computer to redirect to a fake website. For example, you might think you're logging on to your internet banking website, but you're actually on a site that looks almost exactly the same.
To avoid pharming, double-check the website you're on. Secure websites, such as internet banking sites, use 'HTTPS' (the ‘s’ stands for secure sockets layer or SSL, which means the information is encrypted) in the web address of their payment pages, not 'HTTP.' If the address just has HTTP, then it's not secure.
Another indication of a secure site is something like a padlock icon or a green shading around the website's mini-icon in the address bar. Have a quick look around your browser for details along those lines. If you double-click on these icons, you can check out info about the website’s security.
Pop-ups
Pop-ups are browser windows that appear out of nowhere. Their aim is to get you to click on them. They can look like ads, banners or special once-in-a-lifetime offers. Most pop-ups are just annoying ads, but some are scams intended to rip you off or get you to download malware that can hurt your computer.
First, don’t click on them. Second, use the pop-up blocker settings in your browser preferences to stay pop-up-free.
Viruses
Viruses are programs that can copy themselves and infect computers. They are similar to adware, spyware and malware in that they cause you grief, but their ability to reproduce and spread is what makes them different.
Anti-virus software is the best way to go, but even this doesn’t guarantee you’ll be safe. Remember, viruses don’t only come from the internet - they can also be transferred through social media, text, phone call, or messenger apps.
Wardriving (unsecured wi-fi)
Wardriving is cruising around the neighbourhood searching for unsecured wi-fi networks. It happens much more than you’d think. People connect illegally to networks and download heaps of stuff or use your network to commit criminal acts.
This is an easy one. Secure your network to stop other people accessing it. Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is the current standard and should be available on all recent wi-fi devices. It may be obvious to say this, but you should also turn off your internet connection when you’re not using it.
10 tips for cyber health
You wear a seat belt when you’re in a car and you wear a helmet when you’re on your bike. Technology is a powerful tool - these ten tips can save you a lot of time and hassle and help you to enjoy all the good stuff without having to deal with the bad.
- Make regular backups of all your important data - photos, videos, docs and other files.
- Use an anti-virus program and keep it up to date.
- Look for indications of security when using your financial details online, like 'HTTPS' and a padlock icon.
- Make sure your password is at least eight characters long and a mix of letters, numbers and characters.
- Never click on advertising pop-ups.
- Never click on links from a person or company you don’t recognise.
- Use a spam blocker if you’re receiving heaps of unwanted emails.
- Check your firewall settings and ensure you have some level of security.
- Use an anti-malware and anti-spyware program.
- Secure your wi-fi connection with a strong password.
Links
Office of the eSafety Commissioner
Information about how to report cyber bullying and be safer online.
ThinkUKnow
Helpful site full of tips on how to stay in control on the web.
National Cybersecurity Alliance
A US site with lots of practical advice about staying safe online.