Using the Web carries a certain amount of risk—to your privacy, to your bank accounts, to the integrity of your personal data, and to our computers' usability. Understanding these risks can help prevent trouble.
To offer a safer online experience, Symantec Press has published "The Symantec Guide to Home Internet Security." The book offers commonsense advice specifically for non-technical computer users. Authors Andrew Conry-Murray, technology editor for IT Architect, and Vincent Weaver, senior director of Symantec Security Response, aim to provide "quick and easy solutions to keeping your Windows-based computers safe from the dark side of the Internet."
In 10 chapters, Conry-Murray and Weaver show you how to:
- Keep your PC free of spyware, adware, worms, viruses, and intruders
- Protect your identity and privacy
- Browse the Web safely and eliminate junk mail from your inbox
- Keep eavesdroppers out of your wireless network
- Make the most of the new security features built into Windows XP
- Shield your children from pornography and online predators
- Protect your Internet-based phone service
- Download free tools that help you keep your computer safe
Conry-Murray and Weaver explain a new era of threats that has emerged, one characterized by spyware, Internet fraud, and
spam. These threats are the handiwork of profit-motivated criminals, whose tactics are increasingly sophisticated. Therefore, everyone who uses the Internet is at risk.
Fortunately, while these risks are very real, they aren't insurmountable. Tools and techniques are widely available for your protection. Conry-Murray and Weaver explain how to choose and use a wide variety of security software, much of it free and uncomplicated.
To make the case for taking action now, the authors present a concise overview of the most pressing Internet risks, explaining why home PCs present attractive targets for Internet criminals.
- Identity theft. The authors relate historical cases of identity theft and explain how an identity is stolen using techniques such as social engineering, spoofing, phishing, and keystroke loggers. This is followed by a primer on tools that help prevent identity theft, advice on how to recover from theft, and other resources.
- Firewalls. This chapter provides valuable information on how a firewall works and why it's an invaluable tool for all Internet users. Tips on packets, protocols, and ports are provided, along with a discussion of free and commercial firewalls.
- Malware. In the chapters "Getting Rid of Unwanted Guests" and "Just Say No to Spam," the authors examine the incredible rise of malware (in particular viruses and worms), how it gets on your computer, and steps you can take to protect yourself. They also investigate spyware and adware, and Trojan horses, and offer advice to deal with these threats.
- Spam. The authors use their term "spamonomics" to explain why at least 50% of today’s email is spam. They also provide information on how spammers operate, which tools anti-spammers use, how email infrastructure works, and what to do to avoid becoming a junk mail casualty.
Operating systems. The prime focus of malware attention is Microsoft Windows, the predominant operating system. The authors address specifics of securing Windows XP Service Pack 2, the most recent version.
Family safety. Parents will appreciate the chapter "Keeping Your Family Safe Online." Whether filtering unwanted material, understanding the potential legal and financial ramifications of file sharing, or protecting your children from online predators, the authors offer advice for instilling Internet common sense in your kids.
New technologies. The book concludes with wireless and VoIP security, plus steps to gain privacy online. With cell phones morphing into handheld computers, and computers turning into phones via Voice over Internet Protocol, the authors provide timely insight into these new technologies.
