Safe Internet Browsing

Surfing the Internet can be dangerous for the unwary computer user. Viruses, spyware and other malware (unwanted programs) lurk behind every corner. Hackers get trickier in how they launch their attacks on unsuspecting web users. Most people are unaware to the fact that their computer can become infected simply by visiting a website. So how can someone protect his or her computer from the perils of the Internet?

Knowledge is Power

There are two good tips to keep in mind when surfing the Internet. You can significantly reduce your risk to ‘catching a virus’ off the Internet by utilizing them.

Tip 1 – If you are not sure, say no. Malware today is being disguised as legitimate and helpful pop-ups. Some viruses may pop-up when you are visiting a web page and ask you if you would like your computer protected against virus. Seeming like a good idea to protect your computer, many Internet users say ‘yes’ and unknowingly allow viruses to install and infect their computer. Some of these pop-ups even claim they are from Windows ® or some other official sounding authority. Just like parents who tell their children not to accept candy from strangers, the same applies to the Internet. If you are not sure of what you are being offered, just say no.

Tip 2 – Nothing is free. Some websites offer coupons, free downloads, free money for gambling and other enticing offers to lure visitors to a website. While not all websites that offer something for free are hazardous, most of them are. Remember, nothing is ever free. If someone is able to offer something for free, chances are an advertiser is paying for it. Those advertisers like to know who you are and what your browsing habits are. They also want to direct you toward sites they have an interest in you visiting (for example, they get a percentage from every sale off certain websites). This is how spyware gets installed on your computer. What they do not tell you (or it is in very small print) is that by accepting the free gift, you are also accepting a piece of spyware. The program gets installed, and begins to hijack your browser. They then typically begin to pop-up more ads for ‘free’ stuff and point your browser to sites you did not intend to visit. This spyware clogs your computer and slows it down. Nothing is free - someone is always paying for it.

In addition to these safe browsing habits, every computer should have antivirus installed as well as current virus definitions. Every day, dozens of new viruses and malware are introduced to the Internet. James San Fillippo, owner of Data Cube Systems, says expired antivirus software is virtually useless. Since no one program can successfully protect you from all threats, you can use a blended approach to increase the chances of detecting and removing a virus should you catch one. For example, you can purchase Norton ® or McAfee ® Anti-Virus and install Microsoft’s AntiSpyware ® as well. Together, two programs can more effectively guard your computer.

Internet security is also very crucial to hosting companies. Palm Seed Studios (PalmSeedStudios.com), an advertising agency located in Orlando, has their own hosting facility, and owner William Midtbo says that they have all their servers monitored twenty four hours a day to protect them from viruses and other harmful pieces of spyware. If a server gets highjacked and goes down, it can be very costly for our clients due to loss of business during the downtime. “We do everything we can to prevent that from happening”, says William Midtbo. “We spend a lot of time making sure our network structure is fully secure.”

Surfing the Internet can be fun and informative. Do it wisely by following a few simple tips and you can save time, aggravation, and costly repair bills. The Internet is growing and expanding; but so is the number of viruses you can catch. Stay informed on current trends and keep educated on Internet issues. Knowledge is power.

Palm Seed Studios Secure Hosting Facility