Archive for August, 2009
What is a computer worm?
A computer worm is a software program that is designed to copy itself from one computer to another, without human interaction. Unlike a computer virus, a worm can copy itself automatically.
Worms can replicate in great volume. For example, a worm can send out copies of itself to every contact in your e-mail address book, and then it can send itself to all of the contacts in their e-mail address books.
Some worms spread very quickly. They clog networks and can cause long waits for you (and everyone else) to view Web pages on the Internet.
You might have heard of specific computer worms, including the Sasser worm and the Blaster worm. The most recent worm is called the Conficker worm.
To help prevent infections by and to get rid of the Conficker worm and worms like it, visit the Windows Live safety scanner or the Malicious Software Removal Tool. If you have automatic updating turned on, the Malicious Software Removal Tool runs on your computer every month.
What is a computer virus?
Computer viruses are small software programs that are designed to spread from one computer to another and to interfere with computer operation.
A virus might corrupt or delete data on your computer, use your e-mail program to spread itself to other computers, or even erase everything on your hard disk.
Viruses are often spread by attachments in e-mail messages or instant messaging messages. That is why it is essential that you never open e-mail attachments unless you know who it’s from and you are expecting it.
Viruses can be disguised as attachments of funny images, greeting cards, or audio and video files.
Viruses also spread through downloads on the Internet. They can be hidden in illicit software or other files or programs you might download.
To help avoid viruses, it’s essential that you keep your computer current with the latest updates and antivirus tools, stay informed about recent threats, and that you follow a few basic rules when you surf the Internet, download files, and open attachments.
Once a virus is on your computer, its type or the method it used to get there is not as important as removing it and preventing further infection.
What is Spyware?
Spyware is a general term used to describe software that performs certain behaviors, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent first, such as:
•Advertising
•Collecting personal information
•Changing the configuration of your computer
Spyware is often associated with software that displays advertisements (called adware) or software that tracks personal or sensitive information.
Trading tracking for services
That does not mean all software that provides ads or tracks your online activities is bad. For example, you might sign up for a free music service, but you “pay” for the service by agreeing to receive targeted ads. If you understand the terms and agree to them, you may have decided that it is a fair tradeoff. You might also agree to let the company track your online activities to determine which ads to show you.
What spyware does
Other kinds of spyware make changes to your computer that can be annoying and can cause your computer slow down or crash.
These programs can change your Web browser’s home page or search page, or add additional components to your browser you don’t need or want. They also make it very difficult for you to change your settings back to the way you had them.
Know what you’re installing
The key in all cases is whether or not you (or someone who uses your computer) understand what the software will do and have agreed to install the software on your computer.
A common trick is to covertly install the software during the installation of other software you want such as a music or video file sharing program.
Whenever you install something on your computer, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software in a given software installation is documented, but it might appear at the end of a license agreement or privacy statement.
LG’s Scarlet 2.0 Series Features Bluetooth
LG Electronics India has announced the launch of Scarlet 2.0 series of LCD televisions in the country. In addition to a slimmer design (39.7 mm slim), the new Scarlet series comes Bluetooth compatibility. So, with this, one can listen to TV with a wireless headset, or view mobile phone photos and MP3 songs on TV.
Another USP claimed by LG is the In-Plane Switching Panel Technology (IPS), which offers higher quality. Scarlet 2.0 series from LG is available in TruMotion 100Hz full high definition format in 47-inch, 42-inch and 32-inch screen size. The Scarlet 2.0 range offers a dynamic contrast ratio of 100000:1, plus it is DivX USB 2.0 enabled.
The MRP is Rs. 99,990 for the 47-inch model, Rs. 79,990 for the 42-inch model and Rs. 49,990 for the 32-inch model.
For more information, please contact Mitul Bhavsar.
How to prevent computer worms?
A computer worm is designed to spread from computer to computer without your interaction. You might have heard of worms like Conficker, Sasser, and Blaster.
To help prevent getting infected by computer worms, follow these four steps:
1. Keep your firewall turned on.
2. Keep your operating system up-to-date with security updates.
3. Use updated antivirus software from a trusted source.
4. Use strong passwords, especially on your network.
Also, use caution before you open e-mail attachments, click links in e-mail, or before you accept file transfers.
Never open e-mail attachments from someone you don’t know and avoid opening e-mail attachments from someone you do know, unless you are aware of exactly what the attachments are. The sender might not know that the attachment contains a worm.