PC help - Security threats and how to avoid them

Sammamish, WA - November 20 - As more and more people get online in order to work, expand their knowledge and keep in touch with friends and family, what are the security threats present which could leave them requiring PC help?

The main security threats facing today's PC user are malware, phishing scams and internet hackers - all very different types of cybercrime but all things which could leave people either needing a PC repair service or becoming the victims of theft.

So just how do these security threats differ from one another?

Malware is a type of malicious software and can pose similar risks to a computer as viruses. Without the owner's consent or, on occasion, even knowledge, malware can enter the computer system and cause multiple levels of damage, either leaving people needing a PC repair service or, in a worst case scenario, leaving them with no alternative but to buy a new computer.

It can also be known to lie dormant with in a computer, meaning that when damage does occur it can be difficult to establish the cause.

Within the bracket of malware are security threats such as viruses, trojans, worms, adware and spyware, some of which can alter the way a computer or the internet typically runs.

Perhaps one of the best ways for computer users to protect themselves against malware is to invest in some form of antivirus software for their PC.

Antivirus software is able to either prevent malware from infiltrating a computer, or detect its presence and remove it safely, including viruses, trojans and worms.

Such software is available in many different forms - from free antivirus software packages which can be uploaded or downloaded on to the computer to a subscription package.

However, consumers should first ensure that the company they are considering to purchase antivirus software from is a reputable source.

Phishing attacks differ from malware in that the user, rather than the PC, is typically the victim.

Such security threats typically occur when a cybercriminal attempts to fraudulently obtain a person's passwords, usernames or financial details, either to access their finances or sell them on to a third party.

Fraudulent communications are sent to an internet user purporting to be from their bank, an online retailer, social network or other trusted source. Typically, these messages or emails contain a link which it requests that the recipient follows which then takes them to a web page appearing to be the bank or social network.

However, in actuality it is a copy and requests that users enter their personal information, username or password, before then being accessed by the cyber-criminals.

On occasion, such a tactic can also be used to fool PC users into downloading what turns out to be malware on to their computers.

The easiest way of avoiding such a trap is to use some common sense. Security experts regularly advise that a bank, online retailer or social network will never send an email requesting that a person enter their personal details, in particular their financial data. By never revealing such information to a third party, consumers can have the peace of mind that it is safe.

Finally, hackers can also present security threats, by accessing people's accounts in order to steal their personal data. Steps consumers can take to avoid falling victim to this include regularly changing their log-in information on their various email accounts or social networking sites. Furthermore, experts recommend that the same password is never used for more than one site, as should a hacker break one password, they may then have access to numerous sources of information.

As Luis Corrons, technical director at Panda Security, says: "Once cyber-crooks have user names and passwords they have all the details and can take any action from the account including spam comments with malicious links - obviously [users' social network] friends can get infected with some other kind of malware such as trojans designed to steal some other passwords and users names, et cetera - send messages to contacts and even make a user lose all his friends."

Should computer users have any concerns at all that they may have fallen victim of any of the above security threats, they may wish to contact the experts at Bluephone for the PC help they need.