Monday, 27 August 2012

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Think You Are Vulnerable Online? Five Ways Hackers Can Track 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 think there are places where your computers and mobile devices may be vulnerable? Are you leaving an open door for hackers? Here are just a few ways a hacker might be able to get into your system and compromise your valuable and private information.

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.

Popups- Among others, popups are also important tools that hackers use. While you may see these ordinary advertisements, they are often loaded with spywares and adwares that are just for your mouse.

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.

Shared Files- While sharing files on a network is a common practice in some offices, these practice can also make your system vulnerable. Once a hacker has accessed your computers, he can easily look through your files, gather personal and sensitive information, and even delete the folders and files you have created so you no longer have access to them.

Preventing Hacking

Install an anti-virus program- then use it regularly. Pay attention to what it says and get rid of any viruses, worms, or Trojans it finds. Also, you must update the software regularly.

Use an encryption software to render information on your computer unreadable to people that might gain access to it. It is advised you use this encryption on all your information. These people are always smart and sneaky, don't give them any chance at all.

Ensure that all file sharing services is disabled 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 then click on Sharing and Security. Select the tab that says 'Sharing' and then click the 'do not share this folder'

It is possible that your computers are much more vulnerable to hacking than you think. You can use security software suites to ensure that you computer consistently fights harmful programs.




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