Introduction to Desktop Security

1
Introduction to Desktop Security

• Protecting your computer and your data

2
Malware The Threats

• Viruses
• Worms
• Spyware/Adware
• Phishing

3
Viruses

• Usually come in email
• Have to be run
• Trick you into running the virus

4
Worms

• self-replicating computer program
• Looking for you
• Exploiting Weaknesses
• Install Back Door or other malware

5
Spyware

• Comes from other software
• Tracks usage

6
Phishing

• Social-engineering schemes use 'spoofed' e-mails
  to lead consumers to counterfeit websites
  designed to trick recipients into divulging
  financial data such as credit card numbers,
  account usernames, passwords and social security
  numbers.
• vishing variation
• www.antiphishing.org

7
Phishing

• Deceptive Subject Line
• Apparent genuine content
• Forged Senders Address
• Disguised Links
• Email Form

8
Possible Problems

• Trojan Horses
• Zombie your Computer
• Destroy Data
• Steal Data
• Key Loggers

9
Software Protections

• System Updates
• Anti-Virus software
• Anti-Spyware Software
• Firewall

10
Anti-Virus

• Keep up-to-date
• Scan daily
• Check Files in use
• AVG from grisoft.com

11
Anti-Spyware

• Update regularly
• Scan regularly
• AdAware from Download.com

12
Firewall

• Guards information flowing to and from your
  computer
• ZoneAlarm from zonelabs.com

13
Safe Computing Practices

• Update the Operating System
• Keep protections updated
• Scan Regularly

14
Safe Computing Practices

• Regularly Back-up needed files
• Dont download files using P2P
• Only get upgrades from trusted sources
• Use an alternate browser such as FireFox or Chrome

15
Safe Computing Practices - email

• Dont open attachments even when they are from a
  trusted source
• Dont unsubscribe to spam
• Dont click on links in emails

16
Safe Computing Practices - Data

• Dont give out information especially your SSN
• Banks and credit card companies never use email
  to confirm data
• Check for secure sites when shopping (https)
• Use a separate credit card and check each months
  bill

17
Learn More

• CIS 115 Information Security