Cyber Crime Security- Some Basics to your Security

In the current age of the IT revolution, more and more people are getting hooked into the cyber world for their various needs. Details of our personal information, such as name, addresses, passwords and bank accounts are in process of being attacked by various fraudsters, hackers, terrorists and criminals freely roaming the cyber world. Here we discuss the kind of risks that you are exposed to and the ways in which you can tackle those risks. There is no fool-proof system, but it doesn't hurt to be a little careful while on the internet.

How to protect personal and work data
*Protect yourself with relevant software from viruses and trojan horses that may steal or modify data on your own computer. A trojan horse program is software that claims to do something genuine, but does exactly the opposite. For example, a program that claims it will speed up your computer may actually be sending personal PC information to a hacker.
*Update your PC with the latest anti-virus software and operating system patches. Make sure these updates happen automatically.
*Install a personal firewall and anti-spy ware to protect your PC.
*Periodically change your online password.
*Check your credit card and bank statements regularly and report any irregularities to the relevant authorities.
*Modify your browser security settings to limit the amout of infromation you are willing to accept from a web site. It is recommended to set it to medium or higher.

Be careful while doing online Shopping
*Shop online only with known and reputable merchants; enter their URLs yourself, and do not click on links in emails; these may very well contain hidden commands to trick you.
*Do not respond to any emails asking for personal information.
*Check web site's privacy policy before providing any personal or financial information.
*Make sure your data is encrypted. Many sites use SSl, or secure sockets layer to encrypt information. Indications that your information will be encrypted include a URL that begins with https: instead of http: and a lock icon in the bottom right corner of the window.
*In case you doubt the legitimacy of the certificate, refrain from entering any personal information. If the site does not require you to enter sensitive information, it probably won't display the lock icon.
*Use a credit card instead of a debit card, because credit cards have pre-defined limits and in case your credit card details are compromised this will minimise possible losses. Use credit cards with low credit line.
*Check your statements to keep an eye on any unusual transactions.

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