Internet Security - How does it affect you?

The answer is simple: a virus can wipe all data from your computers, a rootkit can give complete control of your computers to someone who has no access rights, a sniffer can intercept your private electronic communications and a keystroke logger can steal your bank account details and passwords.

Why would a hacker want to attack me?

More than likely they don't. Most Internet attackers do not direct their attack on you intentionally. Hackers run random port scans to look for vulnerable computers. Once they find such a computer it is usually fast and easy for the hacker to take control of the computer. The hackers probably don't have anything against you; they probably don't even know you.

If my systems are compromised what can happen?

What happens once a hacker compromises your system is entirely up to them. The following are examples of what the hacker can do:

* Use the system as a base to launch other attacks. This way all subsequent attacks will appear to come from, and can be traced to, your computer.

* Access sensitive data on the system such as passwords, confidential documents and accounts.

* Convert the system to a webserver and secretly display pornographic and other illegal website material.

* Steal resources such as processing power for dedicated tasks like password cracking.

The uses a hacker can make of compromised systems are too numerous to list here. But, you can guarantee they will all be malicious.

How can I tell if my systems have been compromised?

It is often difficult to determine whether a computer has been compromised but the following are some symptoms:

* Computer starts to operate considerably slower.
* Files start to disappear.
* Your home page changes without explanation.
* Unwanted pop-up windows continually appear while you browse the Internet.
* People receive emails from you although you have not sent them anything.

Once a system has been compromised it can be extremely difficult to regain control and you may have to take drastic measures such as reinstalling the operating system. The best practice is to implement procedures to prevent such breaches of security in the first place. Updated anti-virus and firewall software are essential for any computer connected to a public network like the Internet. For additional preventive measures please refer to our article Five Essential Steps For Protecting Your Computer