BEWARE OF HACKERS AT ALL TIMES

People, not computers, create computer threats. Computer predators victimise others for their gain. Give a predator access to the Internet — and your PC — and the threat they pose to your security increases exponentially. Computer hackers are unauthorised users who break into computer systems to steal, change or destroy information, often by installing dangerous malware without your knowledge or consent. Their clever tactics and detailed technical knowledge help them access the information you don’t want them to have.

How do computer hackers find me?

Anyone who uses a computer connected to the Internet is susceptible to the threats that computer hackers and predators pose. These online villains typically use phishing scams, spam email or instant messages and bogus Websites to deliver dangerous malware to your computer and compromise your computer security. Computer hackers can also try to access your computer and private information directly if you are not protected by a firewall. They may also monitor your chat room conversations or peruse your Web page. Usually disguised with a bogus identity, predators can lure you into revealing sensitive personal and financial information, or much worse.

What can computer hackers do to me?

While your computer is connected to the Internet, the malware a hacker has installed on your PC quietly transmits your personal and financial information without your knowledge or consent. Or, a computer predator may pounce on the private information you unwittingly revealed. In either case, they may:

• Hijack your usernames and passwords
• Steal your money and open credit card and bank accounts in your name
• Ruin your credit
• Request new account Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or additional credit cards
• Make purchases
• Add themselves or an alias that they control as an authorised user so it’s easier to use your credit
• Obtain cash advances
• Use and abuse your Social Security number
• Sell your information to other parties who will use it for illicit or illegal purposes
• Predators can pose a serious physical threat. Use extreme caution when agreeing to meet an online “friend” or acquaintance in person.

How will I know?

Check the accuracy of your personal accounts, credit cards and documents. Are there unexplained transactions? Questionable or unauthorised changes? If so, dangerous malware installed by predators or hackers may already be lurking.

What can I do about computer hackers?

When you arm yourself with information and resources, you’re wiser about computer security threats and less vulnerable to threat tactics. Hackers and predators pose equally serious but very different threats.

To protect your computer from hackers:

• Continually check the accuracy of personal accounts and deal with any discrepancies right away.
• Use extreme caution when entering chat rooms or posting personal Web pages.
• Limit the personal information you post on personal web pages.
• Carefully monitor requests by online “friends” or acquaintances for predatory behaviour.
• Keep personal and financial information out of online conversations.
• Use extreme caution when agreeing to meet an online “friend” or acquaintance in person.
• Take these steps to protect your computer from hackers right away.
• Use a 2-way firewall.
• Update your operating system regularly.
• Increase your browser security settings.
• Avoid questionable Web sites.
• Only download software from sites you trust. Carefully evaluate free software and file-sharing.
• applications before downloading them.
• Practice safe email protocol.
• Don't open messages from unknown senders.
• Immediately delete messages you suspect to be spam.
• Make sure that you have the best security software products installed on your PC:
• Use antivirus protection.
• Get anti-spyware software protection.

In conclusion, the world of computer security is a battlefield where vigilance and knowledge are our greatest allies. Hackers may lurk in the shadows, but armed with awareness and the right tools, we can fortify our defenses and protect our digital sanctuaries from their nefarious schemes. By staying informed, practicing safe online habits, and investing in top-notch security measures, we can navigate the vast expanse of the internet with confidence. So let's band together, fellow netizens, and make cyberspace a safer place for all.