Perils of The Internet

As soon as you connect your computer to the Internet, you face two sets of perils. One set consists of dangers to your computer (such as viruses, spyware, and hacking), and the other of dangers to you (such as identity theft, loss of privacy, cyber-stalking, and even physical attack). Learning about and avoiding these dangers will help keep you and your computer safe and happy.

Perils to your Computer

• Viruses are malicious code that can affect the way your computer runs or make it susceptible to attacks from hackers, crackers, script kiddies, or other Internet vermin. We cover viruses on a separate page, which can be found here.

• Spyware is a catch-all name for advertising programs that mine your computer for data about the computer's users, what sites they visit, what ads they click, what they buy, and so forth. Aside from violating your privacy, spyware can harm your computer by wasting resources running advertising processes and making it more susceptible to viruses and hacking. (For an excellent and detailed discussion about spyware and how to avoid it, click here.)

• Attacks from hackers, crackers, and other unauthorized persons who want to access you computer and its data are becoming more and more commonplace. The best defense against hacking and other attacks is to install a good firewall and to avoid peer-to-peer file sharing programs (such as KaZaa) that open gaping security holes in your computer.

Perils to You

Identity Theft can occur when an unsecured computer is connected to the Internet or when a trojan or other malicious code begins mining your computer for personal data. Once again, avoiding file-sharing programs and installing a good virus scanner and a firewall can help minimize this risk.

Cyber-Stalking is basically online harassment. Some sick individuals seem to derive pleasure from harassing or terrorizing people over the Internet. This is especially likely to happen in "chat rooms." The best way to protect yourself is to keep private details of your life private. Remember, you have no way of knowing who the people in the chat room really are.

Physical attacks can occur when some wacko on the Internet learns your true identity and location. The best ways to protect yourself are, once again, to use a good virus scanner and firewall, and to avoid giving any personal information to people you "meet" on the Internet.

Common-Sense Safety Rules for the Internet

An organization called SafeKids has prepared an excellent set of rules for maintaining your safety while on the Internet. While intended for children, they're great rules for adults, too. Click here to visit the SafeKids site.