Internet Computer Security

In 2000, a computer worm successfully infected millions of Windows PCs across the world through email. Popularly known as the ILOVEYOU worm, this caused damage with an estimated value of $5.5 billion. As a matter of fact, the British Parliament, CIA, and The Pentagon all had to shut down their mail systems to stop the spread of the ILOVEYOU computer worm. Once the infected email was opened, the worm replicated itself and sent a copy to everyone listed in the infected user's mailing list. It also made malicious changes to the infected user's system.

How ILOVEYOU virus was spread

In May of 2000, millions of email users received a malicious email with the subject ILOVEYOU. It had a .txt attachment named LOVE-LETTER-FOR-YOU. It appeared as a simple and harmless .txt file while in fact, it was a .vbs file, meaning the worm was created by using VBS or Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting. This means that although all computers can receive and open this type of email worm, only Windows PCs can be infected. This email worm quickly spread around the world because the malicious emails often appeared as messages from acquaintances, since the worm targeted an email user's mailing list. Another reason why this bug was able to infect millions of PCs in just a short period of time is because it took advantage of a flaw in the Microsoft system setting. As a result, Microsoft received lots of criticisms for leaving such a dangerous flaw unfixed. This bug also took advantage of a flaw in the email system, in which an attached program can be easily accessed by simply opening the attachment.

Creators of the ILOVEYOU virus

After investigation, the ILOVEYOU virus was traced back to the Philippines. The creators of the ILOVEYOU virus are siblings Onel and Irene de Guzman, Michael Buenafe, and Reomel Lamores.

Computer worms in general may not be as harmful as some computer viruses but the ILOVEYOU bug definitely caught the attention of the world. To avoid getting infected by a bug through email, make sure that your PC is equipped with the latest versions of anti-malware software.

It’s important to guard yourself against viruses, spyware, Trojan horses, and other forms of malware. By installing a good PC security program, you can protect your computer from these threats.

What to consider when looking for PC security software

With the different forms of malware around these days, security software should protect your computer from as many types as possible. Aside from viruses, good PC security software should protect against worms, spyware, adware, and Trojans, as well as provide measures against browser and operating system (OS) exploits. PC security software should also give protection when you use peer-to-peer, email, and instant messaging programs. A security program should also block malicious Active X controls, cookies, and scripts. In addition to guarding against threats to your computer, PC security software should also be easy to install and use. As new forms of malware are being constantly developed, your security software should receive frequent and expansive updates to its database so that you are always on top of the latest threat. Support in using your security software, as well as resources to deal with any problems or inquiries you may have, should also be provided.

Top PC security software brands

In terms of how many threats the program can effectively guard against, the following programs receive the highest ratings: BitDefender Anti-Virus, Kaspersky Anti-Virus, Werboot Anti-Virus with SpySweeper, Norton Antivirus, and AVG Anti-Virus. Other programs to consider are ESET Nod32 Anti-Virus and F-Secure Anti-Virus.

By protecting yourself with security software, you can enjoy your online experience and keep your computer free from threats.

Recognizing that there are numerous threats to a computer user because of vurises, adware, spyware, Trojan horses, and other malware, users are now more aware and conscious of the need to install anti-virus software and adware blockers. But because of the growing demand for such security software, unscrupulous persons are proliferating the market with rogue security software, which in themselves are malware, fake, ineffective and deceiving.

Signs that your PC security software is a rogue type

A rogue security software may be detected if there is a browser plug-in or extension is required, if an image, screensaver, or archive file is attached to an email message, if a certain video clip is being required to play, or if a free online malware scanning service is offered. Once installed, the rogue software attempts to entice a user to purchase or install additional software by simulating the existence of a malware or a system crash and reboot or disabling parts of the system to prevent the user from uninstalling. The software may slow down the computer or corrupt files, install pop-up windows giving false or misleading alerts, prevent visits into antivirus vendor websites, or disable Windows updates. An offer to donate a portion of the sale of the software to a charitable cause is a tactic used by many rogue security software developers and vendors.

Actions done by the US government against rogue PC security software creators

Because of the growing number of rogue security software, the US government has stepped in and has been prosecuting their developers and vendors. A list of these rogue software are available on the Internet as a reference for computer users. In 2006, the government has been able to require a rogue security software vendor, Secure Computer LLC, to pay a USD75,000 restitution to consumers. In 2008, the assets of another producer and marketer of rogue security software, Innovative Marketing, and its web host, ByteHosting Internet Hosting Services LLC, were frozen. They were barred from advertising and using domain names associated with their software. The government has likewise asked banks to disallow the processing of payments for purchases involving such software.

The computer user must be vigilant and more careful in his or her installation of freeware because of the proliferation of viruses, malware, and rogue security software. It is best that he or she checks the reliability and authenticity of the source and the software itself.