PC Security Step 11 - Instant Messaging Do’s and Don’ts
Beware of what’s in instant messaging
This popular form of communication is being used by virus writers to spread electronic worms and viruses, and since almost anyone and everyone has access to instant messaging viruses now have the ability to infiltrate both your office and home.
IM security and compliance product developer, Akonix Systems, Inc., reports that in 2007 there were a total of 346 malicious code attacks over instant messaging. With over 100 million people using AOL Instant Messenger alone, you can imagine the enormity of problems that can occur.
Do not be complacent
Though the major virus threats have already been discovered, this is no time to be complacent. Threats still continue. As more users know better on how to stop traditional virus attacks, writers of viruses will continually look for other targets. Instant messaging services are targets.
Yet do not panic
But this is no reason for you to throw away your instant messaging service. Be aware that many viruses in IMs do not automatically propagate. Usually, clicking a link or downloading an applet is what is required to download a virus or a worm.
Avoiding these threats require that users constantly be vigilant and always do safe computing.
Do not trust friends
Or at least those messages sent by friends. Unbeknownst to your friend, he could be sending you a link that leads you to a particular site (under the guise that it was supposed to be a picture of someone you both know). The site tricks you into downloading a Trojan horse which automatically installs spyware and adware on your PC and easily distributes itself.
It’s during these moments that anti-virus software is a big help.
Another thing that should not be trusted are games which can be used to spread viruses via instant messaging.
Software can help
Thankfully, there are security and anti-virus software that extend coverage protection to instant messaging services.
The anti-virus software, Norton by Symantec scans instant messages as does McAfee. These software programs are able to remove different viruses from any files that were received through instant messaging.
The good thing about the mentioned software is that it works. Based on tests conducted by PC World, a lot of anti-virus software has been able to catch known worms and viruses that were sent via instant messaging.
However, it is also a fact that there is really no anti-virus software program that can one hundred percent prevent all known attacks from viruses or worms.
Vigilance is always the best defense.
All in all, one way to prevent threats from worms and viruses is by not completely trusting any content that you receive from the Internet, especially through instant messaging.
Prevention is always better than a pound of cure. Being wary of any files sent through IM. It’s not being paranoid; it is being safe rather than sorry.
Stay secure!
Look for the next step in a few days:
Keeping Your Children Safe Online
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