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Computer Security Check

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Computer security is extremely important, especially when it concerns a computer on the internet.  An unprotected computer that is online is susceptible to intruders, viruses, spyware and unscrupulous adware-spyware.  If these things don't frighten you, consider what each can do:

Intruders can come in through the internet connection if not protected by a firewall.  They can steal personal information, plant software to hijack your computer (turning it into a "slave" and using it for sending spam or committing criminal activity), or just destroy your operating system.

Viruses can cause hardware and software failure, spread to others by hijacking your contacts, or cause applications to malfunction.  Sometimes the system damage is irreversible.

Spyware can relay personal data such as passwords, social security numbers and account information to a crook across the globe.  Your identity could be stolen or savings wiped out before you even realize there is spyware on the computer.

Bad Adware can hijack your web browser, taking you to unscrupulous websites where spyware is instantly installed without your knowledge.  Milder forms of adware will drive you crazy and slow down your computer with popup ads that drain CPU cycles.

There are several computer security threats that you need to be aware of.  Here is a good article on viruses and other computer security threats.

How to check computer security status

There is no way to tell how secure your computer is unless it is scanned for specific security holes.  Fortunately, there are many good (and free) ways to do a security scan online.  Unfortunately, many unscrupulous sites that offer scans could infect your system with spyware.  As with anything else you download or allow your computer to access - stick with well-known, reputable companies only. 

Following are links to legitimate, recommended websites that offer a thorough pc security scan.  These websites focus primarily on basic operating system security, anti virus, and spyware.  There are different products and services available to check for firewall security.  It's a good idea to check your system with at least two different pc security scans to get a real thorough assessment.

Computer security scan resources

The Belarc Advisor builds a detailed profile of your installed software and hardware, missing Microsoft hotfixes, anti-virus status, CIS (Center for Internet Security) benchmarks, and displays the results in your Web browser. All of your PC profile information is kept private on your PC and is not sent to any web server.  This is software that must be installed.  In addition to providing security scan information, Belarc Advisor gives you a detailed inventory of all the hardware and software installed on your pc.  This is really handy to print out and take to the computer store for those considering upgrades.

The Symantec Security Scan performs a hacker exposure check, Windows vulnerability check, Trojan horse check, anti virus product check, and anti virus update check.  Symantec (maker of Nortons anti virus and Norton internet security) is a well known company with excellent pc security products.

Trend Micro™ HouseCall™ is a FREE Web-based solution designed to scan your PC for a wide range of Internet security threats including viruses, worms, Trojans, and spyware. It also detects system vulnerabilities and provides a link so you can easily download missing security patches. After each scan, HouseCall delivers a detailed report, which identifies security threats detected on your computer.

ShieldsUp offers many different types of security and port scans that tell you just how vulnerable your system is.  This is more "techie" oriented than the other scans, but will give you an idea of what information your computer is freely providing.  A real eye-opener!

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