E-mail Is Insecure by Default
E-mail is insecure because it is more like a postcard, not a sealed envelope.
A number of people are under the misconception that when they draft and send e-mail, two things occur. Their message gets sealed in an envelope (that’s why you have to open e-mail right?) and that it goes directly to the person it [...]
Understanding Your Computer: Email Clients
How do email clients work?
Every email address has two basic parts: the user name and the domain name. When you are sending email to someone else, your domain’s server has to communicate with your recipient’s domain server.
For example, let’s assume that your email address is johndoe@example.com, and the person you are contacting is at [...]
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Secure Your Wireless Network
Wireless networks are becoming increasingly popular, but they introduce additional security risks. If you have a wireless network, make sure to take appropriate precautions to protect your information.
How do wireless networks work?
As the name suggests, wireless networks, sometimes called WiFi, allow you to connect to the internet without relying on wires. If your [...]
Don’t Let Personnel Issues Become Security Issues
Terminate Computer Access Before You End a Contract or Tell People They Are Fired
Shortly before a labor union strike in August 2006, two Los Angeles transportation engineers allegedly disconnected traffic signals at four busy intersections. Subsequently, these disgruntled employees were accused of unauthorized access to a computer, identity theft and unauthorized disruption or denial of [...]
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Identifying Hoaxes and Urban Legends
Chain letters are familiar to anyone with an email account, whether they are sent by strangers or well-intentioned friends or family members. Try to verify the information before following any instructions or passing the message along.
Why are chain letters a problem?
The most serious problem is from chain letters that mask viruses or other [...]
Obama To Boost U.S. Broadband Access
Washington, DC — President Obama plans to award $2 billion in grants and loans over the next 75 days in an effort to expand America’s broadband Internet access, as well as, create tens of thousands of jobs.
“Broadband touches nearly every aspect of the U.S. economy, providing Americans with unprecedented opportunities in employment, education, health care, [...]
Report On Web Security: Danger!
The IBM X-Force 2009 Mid-Year Trend and Risk report finds growing security concerns related to surfing the web.
“The trends highlighted by the report seem to indicate that the Internet has finally taken on the characteristics of the Wild West where no one is to be trusted,” said X-Force Director Kris Lamb. “There is no such [...]
How To Choose An ISP
National Cyber Alert System
Understanding ISPs
ISPs offer services like email and internet access. Compare factors like security, services, and cost so that you find an ISP that supports all of your needs.
What is an ISP?
An ISP, or internet service provider, is a company that provides its customers access to the internet and other web [...]
Fraudulent Web Sites
We are aware of public reports indicating that attackers are using legitimate web pages to run malicious code on victims’ machines.
Reports, including a posting by Sophos, indicate that these messages
* Include keywords and names related to a current event (such as, the 9/11/2001 terrorist attack)
* Prompt users [...]
Apple Safari And Firefox
Apple has released Safari 4.0.3 for Windows and Mac OS X to address multiple vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, cause a denial-of-service condition, obtain sensitive information, or spoof a website.
The Mozilla Foundation has released Firefox 3.0.13 and Firefox 3.5.2 to address multiple vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities may allow an [...]