Top 6 computer related threats for this month

The benefits and usage of computers globally have incremented manifold with the dissemination and feasibility of internet network. Over the preceding years it has rolled out benefits that has brought substantial changes in our lifestyle be it entertainment, information sharing or other service sectors. However, there is also a darker side of this invention that we see in form of threats that it causes for computers including PCs and laptops. There are threats in the web that are designed to infect vulnerable computers. Awareness and information about these threats is the best way to contain them and keep them away from your computers.

Threats are always changing as their authors devise deceptive and camouflaged ways of presenting them before victims.

We have listed and described below six of such threats you should be aware of:

1. IP Spoofing

Although this is not an all new threat, it tops the list of threats in this month for your computer. IP Spoofing refers to a technique that aims to take unauthorized control over your computer. In this case the intruder sends e-mails to the computer along with an address to create an impression that the messages are coming via a trusted host.

2. Increase in rogue certificates

The occurrences of fake or rogue digitally signed certificates are likely to increase in this month. These certificates are used for assuring customers that the website they are viewing are genuine and not spurious. These rogue certificates are also used to show the authenticity of security software. 3. Fresh threats for mobile users

Authors of these threats are now honing their skills further to launch fresh mobile banking attacks. Mobile banking is becoming their stronghold as PCs and laptops are now equipped and protected by good quality antivirus programs.

4. Legitimate spam

The threat of legitimate spam comes through authorized advertisers who purchase the e-mail list of consumers who have consented to receive online ads. These spams are one of the biggest carriers of infectious e-mails and attachments. 5. Embedded hardware

Embedded hardware refers to embedded systems that are designed to supervise specific functions related to medical devices, digital cameras, cars, routers and other items. After hacking these embedded systems, the attacker gets the complete control over the related hardware that creates a security emergency.

6. Trojans

While remaining on your system as a legitimate program, Trojans aim to breach the security and privacy of your computer by sending across vital information including passwords to a third party without your approval. In the current month you need to take safeguard against Trojans so that your passwords and other important information are not compromised.

All the computer threats discussed above can easily infect your computer as well. Being an aware and prudent internet user you should check the antivirus software installed on your system and must get it updated right now. Keywords: Computer threats, Trojans, mobile banking attacks, antivirus software, antispyware