Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Internet Behavior Can Protect You

We've talked about this in previous entries but it is always good to review how your behavior while surfing the Internet can go a long way in protecting yourself from the bad guys. The specifics we'll talk about in this entry will be porn, P2P, and free applications on the Internet.

Porn. It is a weakness that a lot of men have and probably some women too. You have to understand that bad guys know that they want as many targets as possible so they look to what can be used to spread their evil wares. Like anyone else, bad guys want to spread their keyloggers, file stealing applications, and bot software to be able to use your computer for their evil purposes. Since many have a weakness for pornography, this is a known target for bad guys to plant their traps. My advice? Stay away. Make sure all people in your household stay away also.

P2P. Also known as peer 2 peer software. It is known as file sharing software that can be used to spread software, music, videos, and pictures. All I have to say about P2P is that you need to be warned. Not only is it illegal, you may get more that you than you bargained for. Bad guys like attaching some of their evil software along for the ride. My advice? Don't use P2P unless it is a trusted source and if it is legal.

Lastly, we'll talk free applications. I am really careful about what applications that are free that I use. I've mentioned in previous entries that I use firewall, antispyware, and antivirus that are free. When you are making the decision to download a "free" application from the Internet, it is best to actually read the EULA. The EULA is end user license agreement. You may be agreeing to be tracked so adware popups can be sent to you or your e-mail address might be given to spammers so you get even more of the e-mail crap than you do today.

Your behavior on the Internet really may be your absolutely best protection. More than antivirus, or antispyware. Be smart and don't fall for the bad guys out there trying to take advantage of you in a financial way.

That is it for now. Stay safe and have a great week!

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