How to prevent techno-wireless security breaches

Posted on January 19, 2008 at 6:25 am

Make sure to read other posts from the Wireless Security series!

Computer security breaching techniques in our techno-wireless world
How to prevent techno-wireless security breaches

In the previous post, Computer security breaching techniques in our techno-wireless world, we discussed the problems surrounding today’s society as all singing, all dancing wireless devices and handheld computing technologies embrace the market. What follows are the 3 most simple rules to combat these fundamental threats of Information theft, Spyware and Hacking.

Of course much of what any security prevention technique must have is a good dose of common sense, but it is surprising how little is shown, particularly by novice users as many people have no idea of the capabilities or exposure their technology has.

3 simple rules to prevent techno-wireless security breaches

Rule No. 1… Never log in and run applications using the administrator account. In administrator mode any logged on user has the capability to change settings, delete files and install programs (viruses, spyware, etc). If you currently only have one account on your system chances are you ALWAYS log in as administrator.

Therefore set up a second account with ‘normal’ permissions and use that account for any browsing or running of applications. This will prevent a rogue user from infiltrating your system and better still no rogue program can automatically install itself.

By default, the security in Windows Vista is set to run under normal user permissions, called User Account Control. This can be annoying to deal with when changing settings, but it greatly increases the security of the computer. Try your best to NOT disable User Account Control in Vista.

Rule No. 2… Always keep your system secure with the most up-to-date software releases/patches. Many users appreciate that it is critical to keep virus definitions and firewall configurations updated but it is also essential when browsing or running any other applications to keep these products up-to-date as well. Never leave updates for ‘another day’. The longer you do, the more prone you are to new attacks.

Rule No. 3… If you think there is a stealth program monitoring your keystrokes or browsing habits, if you get strange phone calls from ‘legitimate’ companies requesting your account details, do not be an idiot by divulging personal information - to anyone.

It is a common sense statement, but it is shocking how many people fall into these traps. Prevention is best achieved by running a good anti-spyware product, by asking for personal information requests to be made in writing, and by shredding all correspondence that somebody could use to access your accounts.

In all instances, whether you’re sitting at home browsing the net, or out in the park making a phone call, have a heightened sense of the threats that you may be open to attack from. Act with extreme vigilance when transacting information. But if for some reason a security breach does materialize, i.e. the device falls into the wrong hands, private information is accessed, then all you can do to know for certain that you are no longer prone to attack is have the device disconnected or wiped clean.

Enjoy your technology, after all that is why you have it, but without being overtly paranoid, be conscious of the risks.