Monday, July 23, 2012

Want To Know If You Are Vulnerable Online? 5 Ways Hackers Can Get Hold Of You

By Brad Wilson


Just a few years ago, there were stories of how hackers compromised the security of big name companies like Google, Microsoft, Yahoo and Amazon. With these stories, what makes you think you are untouchable? Hackers are always patiently looking for the miniscule opening in any security network they can take advantage of.

Do you know where your computers and mobile devices might be vulnerable? Are you indirectly inviting hackers into your network? Here are some of the ways a hacker can gain control of your system and compromise your personal or business files.

How Hackers Gain Control Of A System

Spam- Ever notice how your junk e-mail folder always seems to stay full? Many hackers use this type of spam to sent you enticing and believable messages like "Free Gift!" or "Where were you?" to make you think the e-mails aren't actually spam, but correspondence from individuals you trust. The purpose behind such emails could be to get you to download a program, visit a harmful website or to give them personal information. Hackers are smart and allowing them access to a little information on your system might just open the door for more.

The Use Of Downloads- Downloading programs from the internet is wildly popular these days, but you should be careful. It is possible that you may be getting more than you bargained for while you may think that you are getting online videos, music, software and images. These programs and downloads are what hackers use to infiltrate systems and gain control of it.

The Use Of Popups- Like junk mail, popups are yet another tool hackers use to trick you into putting your personal and corporate data at risk. While they may seem like legitimate advertisements for services and products, these popups are often filled with hidden spyware and viruses, just waiting for you to click on them.

Software Updates- Many individuals don't realize it, but forgetting to update their software, like anti-virus and anti-spyware programs can make them extremely vulnerable to attacks. These software programs contain security patches designed to track new viruses, worms and Trojans.

Through Shared Files- While sharing files on a network is a common practice in some offices, these practice can also make your system vulnerable. A hacker can gain access to your computer through shared files and perhaps do with the content whatever he pleases.

How To Prevent Hacking

Install an anti-virus program- then use it regularly. Take time to go through its reports and delete any Trojans, worms or viruses it may find. Also, you must update the software regularly.

Use encryption software to make your data unreadable to anyone who might gain access to your computer. Use this encryption on all of your information, even if you do not think a hacker can use it to infiltrate your system. These people are always smart and sneaky, don't give them any chance at all.

Disable all file sharing on your computer. You can easily do this on windows explorer. To do so, open your browser and take a look at your folders. If you see any small hand on any of the folders, it means that that folder is being shared. Right-click on that folder and select Sharing and security. Select the tab that says 'Sharing' and then click the 'do not share this folder'

Your computers may have settings and other features that may attract hackers than you think. Using security suites and encryption software will help to keep your computer safe from being victimized.




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