Computer security:  techniques for ensuring that data stored in a computer cannot be read or compromised by any individuals without authorization. Most security measures involve data encryption and passwords.

IS YOUR COMPUTER SECURE?

Can someone "listen" to my wireless Internet connection?

Yes, it is possible.  At any time, another computer can listen into your connection to the Internet.  This is accomplished by individuals who have configured their computer in such as way to "sniff" out your wireless connection to the Internet.  They capture your communications using sophisticated software.  Although there are limited number of individuals with the knowledge to accomplish this, it is possible.

Is a wireless connection less secure than an traditional hardwire connection?

Yes, it is.  Any connection to the Internet is subject to being captured.  Wireless connections are subject to the same abuse.  The only difference is the wireless connection offers more access since a portion of the overall communication link includes a wireless component.  It is easier to capture data from a wireless connection than it is from a hardwire connection.

Can someone access my computer?

Yes, if you have your computer's settings set to share files and printing. When it is connected to a wireless network, is available to any other computers on the same network or computers that are within range of the network.

When I use credit card information and other personal information, is this secure?

Whether or not you are using a wireless connection or a hardwire connection to the Internet, any sensitive information such as credit card numbers, financial data and personal information must be managed on a secure web server.  Most web sites where you may be passing sensitive information will operate using some for of encrypted communications.  You can determine whether these sites are encrypted by looking at the web address.  It will begin with "https://".  You can also look for the "lock" icon in the lower right hand portion of your browser.  The "s" in "https://" and the lock icon indicate a secure server.  All data passed between your computer and the host server is encrypted.

Is my e-mail secure?

Sending e-mail is probably one of the most unsecure forms of communication on the Internet.  Whether or not your connection is wireless or hardwire, your e-mails are subject to being read by unauthorized parties.  Never send credit card information or any other personal information.  Assume that anything you have in an e-mail will be read by someone other then you and the intended recipients.

How can I secure my e-mail?

There are products available to secure your e-mail.  In fact, many of your mail managers have encryption technologies built into them.  Consult with your employer or information technologist for more information.

How can I secure my wireless connection, what is WEP?

There are several ways to secure the connection.  The most talked about method is using the built in wireless encryption technology called WEP.  WEP was developed to "scramble" the wireless connection between your computer and the main antenna.  Unfortunately, WEP's encryption technology was "broken" two years ago.  There is a software package that can be downloaded for free that enables anyone to configure a computer that will "break" the WEP encryption in a matter of hours.  Once broken, your connection is no longer protected and subject to being captured.

The only way to completely protect your connection on the Internet is to encrypt all communications between your computer and the destination host.  This requires your host destination to work in conjunction with your computer to encrypt.  Often this is accomplished with work related connections via a "VPN" connection or IPsec connection.  The limitation with these connections is that your encryption most be coordinated between your computer and the host computer.  When you are browsing the Internet, this is impossible to accomplish since each web site is a different host computer.  To encrypt all connections would require you to have VPN or IPsec connections with each host.

What is a "firewall" and can I install a personal firewall?

A firewall is software that prevents unwanted intrusions from the intranet into your computer or network.  A personal firewall specifically protects your computer from intruders and hackers.  You can get out, but they can't get in.

There are several inexpensive software packages that are available to enable you to protect your personal computer.  It is strongly advised to install a personal firewall program. 

Here are a few companies that offer personal firewall software programs:

http://www.zonelabs.com
http://www.symantec.com/sabu/nis/npf/
http://www.mcafee.com/

For further assistance with firewall installations contact us.