Beware of Computers Hackers

By
Sandra McCarty
– June 27, 2010Posted in: Technology
Your computer can be a dangerous place. You can lose control of your computer, your email programs and even your identity if you are not vigilant. Everyday you have to...
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Your computer can be a dangerous place. You can lose control of your computer, your email programs and even your identity if you are not vigilant. Everyday you have to be on guard against those who want to turn your computer into a part of their botnet – zombie army. Computer hackers can send you messages via your website, blog or email. The messages maybe “Here is a cool site, (link attached). Come by for a chat.” If you should click on that link then WAM! BAM! and a malware will be put on your computer.

A hacked computer can create havoc

There are lots of scam artist marketers who are willing to mislead you into visiting their links. Their whole purpose is to infect your computer with malware so they can start using it to send out their own spam emails. Or so they can gain access to your personal information.

Here are a few tactics that you can use to protect your computer against these hackers:

  1. First, learn to recognize a spam comment or email vs. a legitimate one. Spammers will almost always use canned comments – something that is non-personal and can be sent to thousands. A legitimate comment will be more detailed, more personal and will mention something from your article.
  2. Be careful about who you interact with. If you suspect something fishy, turn tail and run!
  3. Also make sure you have the latest virus, spyware and malware protection on your computer. Use a firewall if possible.
  4. When you’re not using your computer, close your browser.
  5. And check your outgoing or sent emails now and then to make sure someone has not pirated your email.
  6. Change all passwords frequently.

Malware or virus sneaking into your computer

If you think your computer’s been hacked, immediately disconnect from the Internet and scan your computer for malware and viruses. Report unauthorized access to your computer to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and to the FBI at the Internet Crime Complaints Center.

Have you had any experience with someone hacking into your computer? If so share it with us. How else can we protect ourselves from such unscrupulous persons?

Update to post – 07/28/10

If you have a good password such as a non dictionary word that you cut and paste in order to log into your account, then it is very difficult for hackers to figure out your password. For example, if your password is a the acronym of a wise saying mixed in with symbols and number it is virtually impossible to crack and so regular changing of the password is not necessary. An example is the acronym of the saying ‘You Can’t Keep a Good Man Down’ mixed in with numbers would be Yc3Ka6gM9d.

Copying your password from a file and then pasting it in order to log it makes it hard for hackers to track what you are doing. Another tip is not to use the same for all your various accounts.

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About Sandra McCarty

Founder of SM Business Solutions LLC, offering inbound marketing services that are both innovative and tailored to my clients needs. I use inbound marketing media such as blogging, emails and social media to help independent professionals, business owners and entrepreneurs successfully engage their target markets and increase their revenues. I am passionate about making sure my clients are satisfied and their companies experience tangible gains. A graduate of Martin J Whitman School of Management, Syracuse University, University of the West Indies and of the Royal Institute of Marketing, London. Some of my clients are; Retro Lounge & Grill, The Cybernet Place, Optic Masters, Balance & Power Inc, Long Island Entrepreneurs Meetup Group, Best Buyer's Brokers and Male Ego Ltd.