Security is a very important issue for all computer users. Most people don't realize that they should pay special attention to the security of their computers.
Why should you care? Because your computer is a risk for intruders looking for credit card numbers, bank accounts, other personal information which could be used for identify fraud, or even to use your resources to attack other computers on the network.
How do intruders break into a computer? They may use any of several methods. They may hack into a computer by portscanning it in order to find vulnerable open ports which aren't protected by a firewall. An exploit may even come in the form of a virus or trojan that arrives in an email or is accidently downloaded. It then installs a program on the computer with takes advantage of a flaw or weakness to allow the intruder to take control.
Another scheme is to send the victim a fake email which looks as if it is from a well-known site. These emails usually ask the user to input their bank account or credit card details for "verification". If the user falls for this trick he or she could be in for a big surprise when their next bank statement arrives.
Computer security is quite an extensive topic, so I have broken it down into sections. Browse the following links for further information on each aspect.
Viruses and Worms
Trojans
Email Viruses and Scams
Check for open ports with Sygate Free Online Security Scans
View Virus and Malware Information Updates
Get a free Security Analysis from DSLreports.com
Free Test for Open Ports and Vulnerabilites from Shields UP!