Information about Cybercrime

June 09, 2011

In previous years, computing devices were under threat from viruses and worms with the primary aim to spread them through the computing network causing damage to files and computer systems. This malicious software often known as “malware” and the method used is often described as cyber vandalism. The primary goal of the worms and viruses was to spread as much as possible to cause the most damage.

Today however, the situation has changed drastically. The biggest threat that is posed by computers is crime ware which is malicious software that is written by cybercriminals with the primary purpose of making money illegally. Crime ware can take the form of viruses, worms, Trojans and other malicious programs.

Crime ware is secretly installed on computers; most crime ware programs are Trojans that are designed to do different things. Some Trojans are used to keep a record of every key you tap i.e. key loggers, some capture screenshots when you are using banking websites, some download other malicious code and others allow a remote hacker to access the system you are using. All this cyber ware has one primary goal in mind and this is to steal your confidential information such as passwords or pin numbers and send it back to the criminal.

The term hacker was once used to describe a clever programmer. Today it is a name given to those who exploit security vulnerabilities in order to break into a computer system; this can be described as an electronic burglary. Hackers regularly break into individual PCs and also larger networks. Once the hacker gains access they may then install malicious programs, steal confidential data or perhaps compromise computers to distribute spam. Hackers use loopholes in your programs to break into your computer system. It is possible to protect yourself from hackers by using a firewall; they help to protect a PC by detecting potential intruders and making the pc invisible to hackers.

A phishing attack is a specific form of cybercrime, the cybercriminal will create an almost identical replica of a banks website then attempt to trick the particular user into inserting their personal details, username, password and pin number via the fake website the cybercriminal can then use the details to obtain money illegally.

Phishers use various techniques such as sending emails that appear to be from the bank, they use legitimate logos, good business style and often spoof the user into thinking that it came from a legitimate bank.
Spam is often unwanted and unsolicited email and is the equivalent of bulk email that is often found on your doormats it is often sent in large quantities and spammers can make money from the small number of people that are likely to respond. In recent years spamming techniques have evolved with a constant battles with junk mail filters trying to block all spamming techniques and spammers constantly coming up with ways to try and break through the filters.

You can protect yourself from the above threats by taking the following steps:

Protect your computer properly by installing internet security software like Kaspersky
Install and run security patches for your operating systems and applications by switching on windows updates and updating Microsoft office.

If you receive an email with an attached file e.g. word documents, spread sheets or exe files do not open them unless you know for sure that the sender is expected and you know what it is you are opening. Never open an attachment in an email that is from someone you do not know the same can be said for instant messaging messages that contain links.

Update your security on your computer regularly (once a day to be safe) and keep your other applications updated

Back up your data regularly to a CD, DVD or external USB drive.

Don’t use links in an email message to load a web page type it into the browser yourself
Check your bank accounts regularly to make sure that all transactions listed are legitimate and report anything suspicious by contacting the bank immediately.

Find out about Kaspersky and Symantec software by visiting the Port-P website, Port-P can help you with your software solutions and offer licensing options to help reduce the cost to you.

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