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Title:
A Guide To Free Screensavers

Word Count:
410

Summary:
There are millions of Screensavers available on the Internet. Almost all of these can be downloaded and installed easily. These are usually categorized according to themes. Nature lovers can choose picturesque locations. Fish lovers can choose from different kinds of aquariums with multi-colored fish that are swishing through colored water. Those who really like adventure sports or aircraft can choose from a wide array of moving images and clips of death-defying stunts. Screensavers can also be slide shows that have various pictures of movie celebrities, sportspersons and politicians.

Keywords:
screensavers, free screensavers, nature screensavers, animated screensavers

Article Body:
There are millions of Screensavers available on the Internet. Almost all of these can be downloaded and installed easily. These are usually categorized according to themes. Nature lovers can choose picturesque locations. Fish lovers can choose from different kinds of aquariums with multi-colored fish that are swishing through colored water. Those who really like adventure sports or aircraft can choose from a wide array of moving images and clips of death-defying stunts. Screensavers can also be slide shows that have various pictures of movie celebrities, sportspersons and politicians.

However, some precautions need to be taken before downloading Screensavers. The most important one is that Screensavers must be downloaded from trusted sites. It?s also always a good idea to scan Screensavers for viruses and other potentially dangerous elements, such as spyware and adware. If an anti-virus is already installed on the system, a right click enables a menu which provides for a ?scan with?? option. This option can be selected and left-clicked to check the selected download before double-clicking it and installing it.

Sometimes Screensavers are extremely graphic-intensive. This means that they contain so many graphics that they are huge files. Huge files take a lot of space on the computer when they run, and make the computer work so much harder and so much faster than normal that the computer freezes. Then the computer needs to be restarted and all the unsaved information on the computer — such as open files that were being worked on before the Screensaver was activated ? is lost.

Some Screensavers also make the hard drive of the computer crash, causing irretrievable data loss. Therefore, it is important for users to download Screensavers that are compatible with the configuration of their computers. This means that the speed of the processor in the computer, and the free space on it, should be sufficient for the Screensaver to be downloaded, installed and run.

Many users like to create their own Screensavers, often with the visuals and audio of their choice. Some software applications facilitate this. Out of these, some can be freely downloaded from the Internet. However, these should be downloaded only from trusted sites, and should be supported by the configuration of the user?s computer. Once downloaded, these should also be scanned for viruses and other common infections. When installed, these programs enable the user to combine images, video clips and audio clips to create a personalized Screensaver, sometimes even for circulation amongst friends and family.

Title:
The Challange ? Security Vs. Mobility

Word Count:
652

Summary:
The overwhelming increase in the mobility of the corporate workforce and the availability of wireless internet connections in airports, hotels, and coffee houses, creates an unbearable challenge to IT managers.

Keywords:
mobile security, wireless, Security, Hardware, firewall

Article Body:
The overwhelming increase in the mobility of the corporate workforce and the availability of wireless internet connections in airports, hotels, and coffee houses, creates an unbearable challenge to IT managers. Whenever employees, travelling with their laptops, connect to a hotel hotspot, they are in fact connecting their corporate computers to an unsecured network, shared by hundreds of guests. This innocent connection jeopardizes sensitive data and can bring back security threats into the corporate network when returned to the office. For this reason, IT managers have adopted rigid security policies, creating a conflict between the need for security and the productivity of the mobile workforce. For example, some organizations consider the returning laptops as ?infected?. The infected laptops are completely formatted and cleaned. Some allow dial-up connections-only (no Wi-Fi), while others go further to completely prohibit the connection of laptops to the Internet outside the corporate network.
This unbearable conflict between security and mobility can only be solved if the mobile force is equipped with the same level of security as they have inside the corporate network. To understand what this means, we should examine the level of security that is maintained inside the corporate networks.

Corporate Network – Two Lines of Defense

Corporate users enjoy higher security levels inside the corporate network because they operate behind two lines of defense. The first line of defense, is a set of robust security appliances, installed at the IT center and exclusively controlled by the IT department. It is largely based on a comprehensive set of IT security appliances running secured and hardened OS, with Firewall, IDS, IPS, Anti Virus, Anti Spyware,
Anti Spam and Content filtering. The second line is based on the Personal FW and Anti Virus software installed on end-user?s computers.
The first line of defense completely isolates the user at the physical and logical layers.
Unlike PCs, these appliances are equipped with a Hardened operating systems that do not have security holes, ?back-doors?, or unsecured layers. They are designed for a single purpose, to provide security.
The first line of defense provides the following advantages:
- Mobile code is not run – content arriving from the internet is not executed on these appliances it just goes or does not go through into the network. It makes it more difficult to attack as the mobile code delivered by the hackers does not run on the appliances.
Cannot be uninstalled ? Security attacks often start by targeting the security software, while trying to uninstall it or stop its activity.
Software-based security solutions, as any software program includes an uninstall option that can be targeted. In contrast, the hardware-based security appliances cannot be uninstalled as they are hard coded into the hardware.
- Non-writable Memory – Hardware-based solutions manage the memory in a restricted and controlled manner. The security appliances can prohibit access to its memory, providing greater protection against attacks on the security mechanism.
- Controlled by IT personnel ? The security appliances are controlled by IT, who constantly maintains the highest security policies and updates.
- Performance – The security appliances are optimized for maximum security and operate independently from computers in the network, not degrading the performance of the desktops or consuming their resources.
Consequently, the corporate PCs reside in a secured environment. If the security is breached, at least the damage stops at the gateway. The first line of defense prevents threats from entering the corporate network. While the second line serves as a precaution and help defend against threats that may have already entered the network (e.g. emails). But the real problem starts when the corporate PCs go in and out of this secured environment. Outside the corporate network they are at the frontline with no first line of defense. The problem intensifies as they return, bypassing the first line of defense as they enter the network. These laptops can be considered as the greatest threat because they unknowingly infiltrate security threats
into the supposedly safe network.

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Everyman’s PC Security Course * Step One – How Secure is Your Home Computer * Step Two – All About Viruses * Step Three – Password Protection * Step Four – Back Up Important Files * Step Five – Should You Have a Firewall? * Step Six – Do You Need a File Encryption Program? * Step Seven – What Are Patches and Do You Need Them? * Step Eight – Beware of Opening eMail Attachments * Step Nine – What You Should Know About Phishing * Step Ten – Download & I (more…)

Title:
Why Do I Feel Like Somebody?s Watching Me?

Word Count:
1041

Summary:
Spyware is one of the fastest-growing internet threats. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, spyware infects more than 90% of all PCs today. These unobtrusive, malicious programs are designed to silently bypass firewalls and anti-virus software without the user?s knowledge. Once embedded in a computer, it can wreak havoc on the system?s performance while gathering your personal information. Fortunately, unlike viruses and worms, spyware programs do not usually s…

Keywords:

Article Body:
Spyware is one of the fastest-growing internet threats. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, spyware infects more than 90% of all PCs today. These unobtrusive, malicious programs are designed to silently bypass firewalls and anti-virus software without the user?s knowledge. Once embedded in a computer, it can wreak havoc on the system?s performance while gathering your personal information. Fortunately, unlike viruses and worms, spyware programs do not usually self-replicate.

Where does it come from?

Typically, spyware originates in three ways. The first and most common way is when the user installs it. In this scenario, spyware is embedded, attached, or bundled with a freeware or shareware program without the user?s knowledge. The user downloads the program to their computer. Once downloaded, the spyware program goes to work collecting data for the spyware author?s personal use or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs. They are notorious for downloads that posses spyware programs.

The user of a downloadable program should pay extra attention to the accompanying licensing agreement. Often the software publisher will warn the user that a spyware program will be installed along with the requested program. Unfortunately, we do not always take the time to read the fine print. Some agreements may provide special ?opt-out? boxes that the user can click to stop the spyware from being included in the download. Be sure to review the document before signing off on the download.

Another way that spyware can access your computer is by tricking you into manipulating the security features designed to prevent any unwanted installations. The Internet Explorer Web browser was designed not to allow websites to start any unwanted downloads. That is why the user has to initiate a download by clicking on a link. These links can prove deceptive. For example, a pop-up modeled after a standard Windows dialog box, may appear on your screen. The message may ask you if you would like to optimize your internet access. It provides yes or no answer buttons, but, no matter which button you push, a download containing the spyware program will commence. Newer versions of Internet Explorer are now making this spyware pathway a little more difficult.

Finally, some spyware applications infect a system by attacking security holes in the Web browser or other software. When the user navigates a webpage controlled by a spyware author, the page contains code designed to attack the browser, and force the installation of the spyware program.

What can spyware programs do?

Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks. Some of their deeds are simply annoying for the user; others can become downright aggressive in nature.

Spyware can:

Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.

Scan files located on your hard drive.

Snoop through applications on our desktop.

Install other spyware programs into your computer.

Read your cookies.

Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.

Change the default settings on your home page web browser.

Mutate into a second generation of spyware thus making it more difficult to eradicate.

Cause your computer to run slower.

Deliver annoying pop up advertisements.

Add advertising links to web pages for which the author does not get paid. Instead, payment is directed to the spyware programmer that changed the original affiliate?s settings.

Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected or hidden places within your computer making it difficult to remove.

Spyware Examples

Here are a few examples of commonly seen spyware programs. Please note that while researchers will often give names to spyware programs, they may not match the names the spyware-writers use.

CoolWebSearch, a group of programs, that install through ?holes? found in Internet Explorer. These programs direct traffic to advertisements on Web sites including http://coolwebsearch.com. This spyware nuisance displays pop-up ads, rewrites search engine results, and alters the computer host file to direct the Domain Name System (DNS) to lookup preselected sites.

Internet Optimizer (a/k/a DyFuCa), likes to redirect Internet Explorer error pages to advertisements. When the user follows the broken link or enters an erroneous URL, a page of advertisements pop up.

180 Solutions reports extensive information to advertisers about the Web sites which you visit. It also alters HTTP requests for affiliate advertisements linked from a Web site. Therefore the 180 Solutions Company makes an unearned profit off of the click through advertisements they?ve altered.

HuntBar (a/k/a WinTools) or Adware.Websearch, is distributed by Traffic Syndicate and is installed by ActiveX drive-by downloading at affiliate websites or by advertisements displayed by other spyware programs. It?s a prime example of how spyware can install more spyware. These programs will add toolbars to Internet Explorer, track Web browsing behavior, and display advertisements.

How can I prevent spyware?

There are a couple things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer system. First, invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software packages such as Lavasoft?s Ad-Aware or Windows Antispyware. Other options provide the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, scanning, and removal of any found spyware software. As with most programs, update your anti virus software frequently.

As discussed, the Internet Explorer (IE) is often a contributor to the spyware problem because spyware programs like to attach themselves to its functionality. Spyware enjoys penetrating the IE?s weaknesses. Because of this, many users have switched to non-IE browsers. However, if you prefer to stick with Internet Explorer, be sure to update the security patches regularly, and only download programs from reputable sources. This will help reduce your chances of a spyware infiltration.
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And, when all else fails?

Finally, if your computer has been infected with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is backing up your data, and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system.

NOTE: You have full permission to reprint this article within your website or newsletter as long as you leave the article fully intact and include the “About The Author” resource box. Thanks! :-

oday, more and more people are using their computers for everything from communication to online banking and investing to shopping. As we do these things on a more regular basis, we open ourselves up to potential hackers, attackers and crackers. While some may be looking to phish your personal information and identity for resale, others simply just want to use your computer as a platform from which to attack other unknowing targets. Here are the things that you’ll discove (more…)

Title:
Learn About Windows Vista Registry Cleaner

Word Count:
556

Summary:
Just keep in mind, you can keep your vista system is perfect operating state by regularly cleaning it up and Registry Cleaner is one of the tools that will help you do so. Application error messages are reduced hence increasing the speed of the Vista operating system as well as its performance. Adware and Spyware leave behind a whole plethora of errors that the Registry Cleaner removes. Therefore, for a complete and secure Vista experience, get a Windows Vista Registry Cleane…

Keywords:
Windows Vista Registry Cleaner

Article Body:
Just keep in mind, you can keep your vista system is perfect operating state by regularly cleaning it up and Registry Cleaner is one of the tools that will help you do so. Application error messages are reduced hence increasing the speed of the Vista operating system as well as its performance. Adware and Spyware leave behind a whole plethora of errors that the Registry Cleaner removes. Therefore, for a complete and secure Vista experience, get a Windows Vista Registry Cleaner.

Microsoft Windows Vista is the most sought after operating system now-a-days. What is most fascinating about Windows Vista is its interface. The interface is comprised of an animated see-through window that has a touch of graceful and subtle color along with a brand new Start menu. While this many be the case, keeping the system efficient and effective is still the key interest of users and computer professionals. Windows Vista Registry Cleaner is one such utility that is needed to maintain the operating system in good shape.

The registry is catalog of all information about the software, hardware and preferences of the user along with all the settings details. A registry key in Vista operating system is created or modified or deleted every time new software program has been installed or uninstalled. This is the case even when software programs are used.

Any error that occurs during installing or uninstalling of software in Windows Vista is also stored along with the error application in the registry. This causes the registry to be crammed with orphaned or corrupted entries. The registry also gets stuffed with invalid programs that you may have removed from your system long ago. This causes the resources of the system to choke and this considerably slows down the Windows Vista computer.

Registry Cleaner is, often, used to counter software problems in Windows Vista based computers as well as to optimize the system performance. It basically removes the invalid entries from the computer. But the problem that goes with badly developed Registry Cleaner is that it may remove useful programs keys, which may be useful for running your favorite software. Hence a good Registry Cleaner would scan the system for any dubious entry that may harm your system. It would also make sure that the suspicious entry does not affect any software that has already been installed and ones that are in use.

If any problems are detected by the Windows Vista Registry Cleaner after it analyzes the vista system, you can view each of these issues and ask for a detailed explanation of that particular problem. On the other hand, you can choose for an automatic correction of the errors. But you must remember to take a back up of all registry keys that you require to delete before you run the Registry Cleaner to make sure you are always safe.

Just keep in mind, you can keep your vista system is perfect operating state by regularly cleaning it up and Registry Cleaner is one of the tools that will help you do so. Application error messages are reduced hence increasing the speed of the Vista operating system as well as its performance. Adware and Spyware leave behind a whole plethora of errors that the Registry Cleaner removes. Therefore, for a complete and secure Vista experience, get a Windows Vista Registry Cleaner.

Outlines eight practical steps you can take to stay safe online and avoid becoming a victim of fraud, identity theft, or cyber crime.

(more…)

Title:
What’s The Snag Behind The Spyware

Word Count:
553

Summary:
The concept behind the technology of spyware is that, a number of advertising companies take interest to install tracking software into the computer system, that illusions to call it host with aims to use all internet connections, get statistical or other information data to what they will claim “home” attesting assurance of company’s security policies not to collect sensitive data for confidentiality, and with full promise to establish continuity of anonymity.

However, …

Keywords:
What\’s the Snag Behind the Spyware

Article Body:
The concept behind the technology of spyware is that, a number of advertising companies take interest to install tracking software into the computer system, that illusions to call it host with aims to use all internet connections, get statistical or other information data to what they will claim “home” attesting assurance of company’s security policies not to collect sensitive data for confidentiality, and with full promise to establish continuity of anonymity.

However, it is an establish fact that the PC functions as a “live” server that is open for any kind of information disseminations with or without the consent of the server; bottom lining the fact, there is always a risk for any transfer of any information even those covered by protection policies between the advertiser and the so called “mothership.” In the end just as nobody would wish, it will be sending assimilated data that might escape the benefit of payment from the PC database.

Although spyware and adware could be two in one to front probable interference to the server’s privacy, spyware could stage sole manipulation to indulge deeper in affecting the users privacy, prompting slow-down computer’s effectiveness, windows’ pop-ups of undesirable ads, and spam e-mails http://www.articles7.com

Several media companies are perennially seeking ways to eliminate large expense for web development and internet costs; but instead, tend to pay part of their revenue solicitations from reputable brands’ banner sales to host servers by installing reputable piece software by way of so called “piggybacking,” or tricking methods as the Trojan horse technique, installing some “rogue” anti-spyware program, eluding detection of its being a disguised security software.

A spyware no adware technology is an advertising copyright itself, can stand without having to do with any adware’s vulnerability threats. The so-called “Web accelerator” or helpful software agents: Example, the Bonzi Buddy (quoted from: Wikipidea), targeted to children: “He will explore the internet with you as your own friend and sidekick. He can talk, walk, joke, browse, search, e-mail and download like no other friend you’ve ever had! . . Best of all, it is FREE.”

This piece of copyright text is so deceptive for unknowingly, motives behind depict to pursue some ends in order to evade something that will disrupt the mobility of cash flow of the mother host.

Why is Spy ware Deceptive?

1. It does not self-replicate; instead, it invades infected computers for commercial gains purposes.
2. It monitors Web browsing activity (sales strategy) and routes of all HTTP to advertising agencies.
3. Delivery of pop-up advertisements
4. Theft of Credit and Identification card numbers in relation to the notorious identity theft around.
5. Spyware gets into the system by exploitations of other software vulnerability.

The Effects of the Spyware upon the Use of the Computer

There are so many complicated effects that are induced by spyware. It may not even be detected as an obvious virus infection, but comes in, a core factor of ineffective results of computers’ performance; like network traffic, disk usage, CPU malfunction which may be mislead to be a PC crash, and finally resolving to replace the whole system with a new one.

The demand for technical support and assistance is another recourse for badly spyware-infected computers. Another option is to have a thorough “cleanup” of the whole system. It needs massive reinstalling on software in order to revitalize as new.