Who needs internet security, what are the risks without secure internet policies?

Internet Security help for business and home network computer users

Who? Needs internet security

I guess about 95% to 98% of computer users need at least basic internet security protection.

In our service business, I've come across people who've happily gone for years without any virus protection at all, but sooner or later the inevitable happens and there's another sizeable tech support repair job to make the computer work properly again.

And the customer buys, at least, basic anti virus and a firewall program for protection so it doesn't happen again.

What are the internet security issues or risks

Here's just a few threats you need to somehow guard against.

• RAT, Remote Access Tools, usually a hidden program so others can see or use your computer, usually without your knowledge

• Trojan, like the Trojan horse of ancient mythology. it sits on your computer waiting for instructions and then acts on them.

• Virus, a flu like infection your computer gets and is usually spread from your computer to others, so they too can transmit the virus

• Spyware, reports back to base (wherever that is) what your internet habits are link, where you visit, and other things about you

• Key Logger, records your keyboard and mouse movements, may often be designed to capture and send back to base, your private details and passwords

• Ad ware, to feed advertisements at you

• Toolbars, are a normal part of your browser, but may contain some hidden agenda, or invite other programs onto your computer

• BHO, Brower Helper Objects. Often do exactly the opposite.

• SPAM or UCE, Unsolicited Commercial Email, those emails everyone seems to receive non-stop, many contain hidden code that confirms your email address if you happen to view or open the email. Once your email address is confirmed even more garbage arrives in your inbox.

• BOTS, robot programs, sit in the background on your computer and wait for instructions from head office to perform some nefarious action in the internet

• And the list goes on and on. As new flaws are discovered in programs, some dating from the 1970's, some repair action needs to be taken, or preventative measure put in place.

• Theft or private or business information

• Identity theft. ID theft.

• Stealing your bank account, credit card information for the purpose of fraud

• Phishing, emails that purport to come from your bank or a financial institution that asks you to confirm or re-confirm your online account details.

• The list goes on and on...

So, How do you create internet security at your place?  Read on...