Internet Dangers

We have all heard of the dangers of the Internet and Cyberspace. Although some of these have been greatly exaggerated, it does not alter the fact that a computer connected to the Internet is susceptible to very real attacks. Unfortunately, there are people who feel compelled to use their knowledge about computers and how to access files remotely in illegal and unethical ways. Subsequently, they make life difficult for others. They are called hackers or crackers. To keep them out of our systems, we need to use a strong firewall.

Here are the main dangers associated with the Internet:

• Unauthorized applications can be delivered to your computer and executed without your knowledge or control (for example, ActiveX or Java* applets embedded in a Web page you browse). These programs can perform any operation on your computer, including transferring files containing your private information to other computers or simply erasing all the files on your system.
• If your system is not properly configured, other computers can access your files directly without someone having to surreptitiously load special software on your computer.
• Some information (in the form of cookies or referrers) can be placed on your computer, which enables advertisers and others to track the sites you visit and what your interests are.
• Trojan horses can be placed on your computer. Trojans are programs used by hackers (crackers) that open the door to your private information, such as passwords, banking data, and credit card numbers. One of the fundamental differences between a Trojan and a virus is that a virus on your computer executes autonomously, whereas a Trojan horse is constructed to be used directly by a remote intruder.
• Internet worms can get to your computer as attachments to e-mail messages. Some e-mail programs open attachments without asking for permission. Some users, unaware of threats, open all attachments manually. When opened, the worm executes and rapidly infects your system.
• Unnecessary data in the form of banners and other advertisements use up your bandwidth. Although these objects cannot directly access or damage the data on your computer, they can significantly slow your connection, especially on a dial-up.
• Spyware is in many ways similar to Trojans. These programs gather information about you and your interests (such as your surfing habits, what other software you have on your computer, etc.) without your knowledge or consent. Spyware is mostly used by online or software corporations for marketing purposes.