Entries Tagged ‘phishing-sites’

10 Jan
2009

Use the Latest Version of Your Browser When Shopping Online

Posted by Ruel

 

As traffic around shopping malls get worse by the day, more and more people are finding it convenient to just shop at the comfort of their computer desks. And at a time when gas prices are again threatening to jump up to crisis levels, people are now more inclined to let their mouse do the shopping.

As with all things, e-commerce has its own set of pot holes. Hackers are always on the lookout for careless online buyers. Day by day, phishing sites proliferate like hot dog stands at every nook and cranny of cyberspace. It is therefore important to have a secure shopping cart whenever you scour the Internet for bargains.

One of the ways by which you could protect yourself from online thieves is by using the latest version of your browser. Newer browsers are more equipped to handle online transactions. They employ the latest encryption methods that meet industry standards, such as Secure Socket Layers (SSL).

Installing the latest version of your browser is not enough, though. You have to constantly update it. Check its maker’s site for updates or patches. Read the security bulletins carefully as it usually contains tips and suggestions on how to keep your credit card number and other financial details safe from phishers.

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19 Nov
2008

Mac Fans are Just as Vulnerable as PC Users

Posted by Ruel

In case you’re wondering, there is no such thing as a virus-free computer, or at least one that’s immune to it. Regardless on whether you’re using a PC or a Mac, malware will eventually find their way into your electronic treasure box. 

Those who dread computer viruses like a bubonic plague often rely on Mac units to run their lives. While there’s some truth in the claim that Macs are virtually impervious to malicious apps, their defenses are not that impregnable. In fact, the only reason why there’s a very low incidence of malware infection on Macs is that hackers don’t see a considerable or profitable market in the small kingdom of Apple. Let’s face it. Almost everybody you know and don’t know uses a PC. 

While there may be only a number of viruses made for the Mac, this doesn’t mean that all is well in Apple’s small diaspora in the industry. We all know that there are a thousand ways by which hackers could wreak havoc on your computer, and a good number of their schemes don’t include viruses. Take for example phishing sites. A hacker could take over your unit or gather sensitive data therefrom if you access a bogus site. 

It’s true that Mac users enjoy the privilege of being ignored by virus authors. However, this doesn’t mean that Mac fans should forego their fencing chores. Mac and PC users alike are still and always in danger of falling prey to online and offline threats. 

 

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