Internet security issues and online crime ranges from petty vandalism to deliberate theft. Criminals and vandals attempt to spoil your internet experience in several ways.
It's important you understand how, so let's look at this now.
Hoax emails (sometimes known as Phishing) appear to come from a legitimate company asking to confirm your details or passwords either by return email or a webpage link.
Hackers use their technical skills and special software to gain unauthorized access to your computer. They may steal files and personal details. Gain access to your internet service and even destroy your computer.
Non-genuine websites (sometimes known as Phishing) claim to offer quality products or services. The purpose of these websites is to steal your credit card details or email address when you place an order or submit your details on the website to receive an offer.
SPAM (Self Promotional Advertising Message) is unsolicited email, now illegal in many countries and banned by many ISP's (Internet Service Providers).
Trojans & Spyware is software that hides within a legitimate looking application or utility on your computer. Once installed a Trojan can launch itself and act like or provide access for a hacker. Spyware installs itself on your computer and sends reports on your computer activity back to its host.
Viruses & Worms are software applications often spread via email and infect your computer. Once installed they can steal email addresses from your contact list and then the virus will attempt to infect other computers via those email addresses.
