A firewall is a program that controls
incoming and outgoing internet traffic.
Most operating
systems come
with
firewalls. In order to keep your computer
and information safe, it is important to
keep the firewall on at all times when
accessing
the
internet
to
prevent
unauthorized access. Users are also able to control which specific programs are allowed
through the firewall as well as those that are not.
Keeping up-to-date
Many computer software, such as operating systems, are not without flaws. Computer
viruses often take advantage of these flaws to gain unauthorized access to a user's computer.
When these security vulnerabilities are discovered they are often patched with security
updates to eliminate the vulnerability. Operating systems, anti-viruses, and any other
programs should be kept up-to-date with the newest security updates in order to keep viruses
and harmful software from taking advantage of exploits that have been fixed with updates.
Avoid scams
Be cautious of the internet. Avoid misleading ads, strangers with offers, strange e-mails, and
questionable websites. Do research to verify the validity of these offers. If someone you know
is sending you messages that don’t seem like themselves, their account may have been taken
over by somebody trying to get information out of you.[7] The best way to avoid scams is to be
fully informed of the deal. Do some research for the following information:[8]
How exactly does the offer work?
How trustworthy is the person/company
making the offer?
What was the experience for other users
regarding the same offer?
Is the offer too good to be true?
Does the offer require payment in
advanced?
Are there hidden costs unknown to the user?
Avoid illegal activity
Magazine Without Borders
Issue n°2
33