Week 13: Clear

Although the invention of the internet was a great thing, it is important to realize how much easier it is for someone to get a hold of your personal information. Through viruses and worms you and your computer could be at risk. Illegal activities happen each day to thousands of people across the world. Although many hackers create these destroying programs just because they can, many also create these programs to steal passwords and credit card information. This brings us to the most imperative point of today: computer security risk. Computer security risk is the activity that causes damage to computer hardware, software, date, information and its ability to work properly. Nowadays, there is such a thing as cybercrime-- internet-based illegal activities that place one's computer in harm's way. An interesting fact from the textbook is "Today, cybercrime is one of the FBI's top three priorities." This goes to show just how pertinent it is today.

There are a few key players you should be afraid of :hackers, crackers, script kiddie, cyberextortionists and cyberterrorists. A hacker once was used to describe a person who was great with computers, but now describes anyone who is able to access your computer without your consent, which leads to illegal activity. A cracker is similar to a hacker but delves deeper into criminal activity and either destroys or steals one's information from accessing his or her computer. A script kiddie is a step down from a cracker on computer knowledge and skill but usually utilize prewritten programs to break into computers. Cyberextortionists utilize e-mail as their vehicle to send threatening messages in order to exploit a person or company stating that private information will be exposed if action is not taken. A cyberterrorist utilizes computer attacking to front politcal actions or reasons; electric companies, air traffic-controllers and many other sources that reach millions each day are at risk.

It is important throughout one's computing to be aware of these types of people, who are only out in the world to cause harm to you and perform illegal activities on the internet. These people will go to great lengths to put viruses, worms or trojan horses on your computer or network to take command of your computer and all of your information. Don't let this happen to you! It is easy to take control of your online destiny, by following some of the tips from the interview with Ms. Kelly Bergsma who stated that computer users should always update one's PC with patches, utilize an anti-virus software and always be wearly of websites and unknown persons. For more information about computer security please check this link.