DIGITALSECURITYGUIDE Software related Risks Malware (for "malicious software") This is any programme or file that is harmful to a computer user. Thus, malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and also spyware, programming that gathers information about a computer user without permission. Viruses There are many different ways to classify viruses, and each of these methods comes with its own set of colourfully-named categories. Worms, Macro viruses, Trojans and backdoors, are some of the more well-known examples. Several of these viruses spread over the Internet, using email, malicious web pages or other means to infect unprotected computers. Others spread through removable media, particularly devices like USB memory sticks and external hard drives that allow users to write information as well as reading it. Viruses can destroy, damage or infect the information in your computer, including data on external drives. They can also take control of your computer and use it to attack other computers. Fortunately there are many anti-virus tools that you can use to protect yourself and those with whom you exchange digital information. Spyware Spyware is a class of malicious software that can track the work you do, both on your computer and on the Internet, and send information about it to someone who shouldn't have access to it. These programmes can record the words you type on your keyboard, the movements of your mouse, the pages you visit and the programmes you run, among other things. As a result, they can undermine your computer's security and reveal confidential information about you, your activities and your contacts. Computers become infected with spyware in much the same way that they contract viruses. The suggestions above are also helpful when defending against this second class of malware. Because malicious web pages are a major source of spyware infection, you should pay extra attention to the websites you visit and make sure that your browser settings are secure. Computer Basics Keeping your device healthy is a critical step towards digital security. So, before you begin worrying too much about strong passwords, private communication and secure deletion, for example, you need to make sure that your computer is not vulnerable to hackers or plagued by malicious software, malware. Otherwise, it is impossible to guarantee the effectiveness 3 of any other security precautions you might take. After-all, there is no point in locking your door if the burglar is already downstairs, and it doesn't do you much good to search downstairs if you leave the door wide open. To deal with malware you need a good antivirus program Antivirus software is used to safeguard a computer from malware, including viruses, computer worms, and Trojan horses. Antivirus software may also remove or prevent spyware and adware, along with other forms of malicious programmes. By installing anti-virus software, you can prevent your computer from getting viruses and other malware. Do you already have it installed? The best way to tell if you have anti-virus software installed is to use the Security Centre feature on your Microsoft operating system. When you select this option, you will be presented with a status for: • Anti-virus software. • Firewall protection. You can do this by following these simple steps: 2