Self-service security

Keeping computers and the details stored on them safe is no easy task, with the threat of malware and viruses rising as Internet connectivity increases. Unlike large businesses that have dedicated IT teams to handle incidents, the responsibility of keeping a personal computer safe often lies solely with the end-user.

So says Carolyn Holgate, GM of MWeb Connect, who states that Internet service providers (ISPs) should be providing automatic e-mail virus and spam filtering technologies to end-users. This could help mitigate these risks before they even get a chance to be downloaded to the computer.

Holgate explains that ISPs should be handling e-mail virus filtering automatically for recognisable malware before it reaches the mailbox, and that ISPs should offer this service at no extra charge.

She adds the benefit of the service being installed on the server is that users don't have to worry about setting anything up on the computer.

Holgate stresses that e-mail isn't the only threat to a user's computer - the browser is still a cause for concern. “Web filter software allows users to have control over the sites their families or colleagues can access online. They are able to create a different set of rules for each user - even though they're on the same computer,” she explains.

Holgate says with the threats on the Internet today, users should also use a solid anti-virus solution to protect their computers from threats that may attempt to infiltrate the machine.

“Select an anti-virus solution that automatically updates itself to ensure the latest security is in place.”

Holgate says there are some elements of protecting a personal computer where the onus falls directly on the user. “Microsoft frequently releases security patches for all their software, including Windows, Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office. Ensure automatic updates are enabled, or visit the Microsoft Update Web site to update a computer.”

She provides some tips for home and small office users to guard against unwanted threats. “Don't click on any links in suspicious looking e-mails, and always check the Web site link in the e-mail actually directs to the correct Web site.

“Verify that the message is in fact from the person or company displayed as the sender, otherwise ignore the links posted inside the message,” adds Holgate.

“When downloading files, scan them with up-to-date anti-virus software once they have finished downloading and before you run or open them. Lastly, be careful when opening attachments from anybody, even if it's someone you know.

“The current trend we are seeing is a rise in spam, phishing and spyware. Malicious URLs are also on the rise as spammers or hackers use these fake Web sites to host malware such as Trojans, key-loggers and fraudulent phishing sites.

“It's fast becoming a matter of trusting your intuition. If it seems suspicious, it probably is,” Holgate concludes.