Tag Archives: Security

Internet Policy Task Force Makes Recommendations to Deal with Cyber Security Challenges

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Information technology (IT) experts have been successful in leveraging Internet technology for diverse uses, revolutionizing the way businesses are run, governments function, and customers transact. However, Internet now stands at cross-roads, with increase in number of security threats. Cyber-attackers are using multifarious ways to infringe Internet infrastructure. According to some estimates quoted by U.S Commerce Secretary, over 45 new viruses, worms, spyware and other types of malicious threats were created every minute during the first quarter of the current year. The consistent and ever evolving threats pose challenge for governments to ensure security for consumers, businesses, military and government bodies. Cyber threats are now more sophisticated, frequent, indiscriminate and target-based.

The Internet Policy Task Force, of the Department of Commerce, United States, has recommended a new framework for addressing Internet security issues. The task force suggests creation of a nationally recognized approach to minimize threats for small businesses, brick and mortar companies, and large organizations that exist on Internet, that have provision for information services, facilitate transactional services over the Internet. The task force has referred to this group as Internet and Information Innovation Sector (I3S).The nationally recognized approach must include development of sector specific, and consensus based code of conduct to safeguard the I3S from varied cyber security threats. The government must encourage industry to develop innovative technology solutions, and promote use of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, and modernize security assurance policies.

The Internet Policy Task Force has advocated the need for creation of a national data breach notification law for appropriate disclosure of security incidents, and encouraging firms to improve security mechanisms. Sharing of information on cyber security incidents is crucial to improve defensive mechanisms. Government may use public policy tools such as liability protection, and insurance models to incentivize and promote best practices among I3S companies. Government must place emphasis on research, and work with industry to devise better cost-benefit analysis for I3S cyber security. Employee awareness is crucial to improve cyber security practices. Governments may asses the current cyber security education efforts, and encourage targeted and customized awareness programs in accordance with industry requirements. Employees may be encouraged to undertake Online computer degree programs to understand and implement best practices in cyber security. The task force emphasizes on encouraging research and development to meet the future demands for effective technological solutions. IT professionals may leverage online technology degree programs to update their technical know-how, and implement better security mechanisms.

Recent security incidents in major corporations have resulted in disclosure of sensitive information related to millions of individuals. Businesses face the challenge of strengthening information infrastructure, and ensuring security of customer and business databases. Vibrant threats have increased demand for cyber security professionals qualified in IT masters degree, computer science degree, computer forensics, network administration, penetration testing, and security threats.

Cybercriminals may conduct attacks from any part of the world. As such, government must coordinate with other countries to share threat information, best practices, and promote shared research and development goals. Government must encourage and develop cyber security standards, which converge with global practices.

Safe Locksmith The Added Security Advantage

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There is a need to have one of the best safe locksmith system installed at home to increase the protection. There are various measures available that can be selected as per the requirement. Custom requirements are also catered by most of the security and safety providing companies. Internet might help a lot in finding the right alternative as per your requirements. It is very to operate a custom setup since you are aware of the systems that are installed for your home. Lots of features and systems come under this belt of safe locksmith. Burglary safes are ideal if you own a shop and have high amount cash moving in and out. These safes are created from high quality metal which is heated at various temperatures. The working of these safes is also easy when compared to other security devices. Breaking inside a well built safe is merely impossible because of insertion of thick metals sheets. Safe locksmith ensures such safes to be built of unmatched technology.

Wall mount safes are also available that can be purchased according to specific safety requirements. These safes are inserted inside the wall with high end precision. There is no way this safe can be removed or robbed with minor tools. Additional locking system is installed which ensures there is no unauthorized access. Password number protection is given which altogether increases the security. There is a need to enter a password for locking and unlocking of the safe. All you need to do is find the preferred locksmith company that will help in increasing the security of your home. All safes must be designed according to international standards as it shows the entire creation and durability of the equipment. For those who need additional protection can rely on gun vaults. These are special types of safes which are designed to offer bullet proof protection. A magnum gun can literally destroy the locking system of a low end safe, robbery can easily take place. To avoid such incidents use of fun proof safes can be done. The working of a bullet proof safe is easy and simple to understand. It has thick insertions of Kevlar that stop the bullet from penetrating inside the safe. The thick padding of Kevlar is very strong and ensures to mash the bullet into pieces. It also ensures there are no tremors created that can add up to the exhaustion of Kevlar. In short it stops multiple gun shots fired towards the safe. Most safe locksmith has such safes for sale at an affordable cost.

Safe locksmith therefore is the preferred option for securitizing your home. Locksmith keys or keyless entry can be gained as the technology is developing. New trends are created and followed to add up the protection level.

New Zealand Government Releases New Cyber Security Strategy

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Governments and businesses across the world are increasingly becoming dependent on Internet for their activities. Many countries are witnessing transformation towards e-governance. New Zealand has also benefitted from the growth of the Internet. According to a report by New Zealand government around 75% of people use Internet and over 70% of them have broadband connection. Most of the businesses use Internet banking and increasing number of people are making purchases online. At the same time, the growing use and reliance on Internet has resulted in increased exposure of government, business organizations and individuals to cyber threats. Cybercrime poses threat not only to personally identifiable information of customers, but also to intellectual property and proprietary information related to business enterprises.

There is increased threat of cyber espionage, intrusion, identity theft and use of the Internet space by terrorist organizations. According to figures of the government, New Zealanders suffer losses of around $500 million annually due to cybercrime. The New Zealand government has developed a new cyber security strategy to combat the growing threats in the Internet space. The government intends to increase awareness on cyber security, safeguard government systems and data, and improve incident response procedures. The government intends to partner with industry and Internet service providers (ISP) to improve awareness on online security. New Zealand government has decided to form a National Cyber Security Centre, which will function under the Government Communications Security Bureau. The objective of the Centre would be to protect government systems and confidential information by improving the existing information assurance capabilities. The new strategy provides for improving cyber security practices in the government agencies. To improve incident planning and response, government intends to collaborate with critical national infrastructure providers, and business organizations. The government is also making assessment of the need to develop a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Growing threats in the cyber space has made it inevitable for government bodies and organizations to initiate proactive steps to strengthen IT infrastructure. There is a growing demand for professionals qualified in computer science degree, IT masters degree and other IT security certifications. The New Zealand government intends to collaborate with industry, universities, and training institutions to meet the growing demand for skilled cyber security professionals.

Employee awareness is crucial to combat sophisticated threats from cyber-attackers. Online computer degree programs, workshops and security awareness training programs may help improve cyber security practices, and create security conscious culture in organizations.

Research and development is crucial to improve defense and response to cyber threats. Online technology degree programs may help professionals in understanding and implementing new security mechanisms. The new cyber security strategy of the government emphasizes on greater cooperation with stakeholders such as industry, academic institutions and other government agencies to develop and improve cyber security response capabilities.

The government also intends to coordinate with other countries to improve the legal framework and enhance cooperation in dealing with cybercrime. Government plans to improve capabilities to deal with organized cybercrime by raising standards to those developed by Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime.

The Latest Internet Security Threats

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The Internet has given birth to a lot of possibilities – it’s a worldwide marketplace, a communication gateway, a networking venue, and a lot more. However, it has also opened us up to new dangers: viruses, trojans, and many other kinds of Internet malware are all over cyberspace, ready to launch an attack on whoever is vulnerable.

The first line of defense is knowing the enemy. So take a look at these latest Internet security threats. You just might meet one of them one of these days.

Scareware

Malware today are often disguised as antivirus software and antispyware.

Take, for instance, Vista Spyware 2011, Windows Restore, and Microsoft Security Center 2011. These software pretend to scan your computer then pretend to find viruses and registry problems and other stuff that should scare you into paying for the software to clean up your computer. (That’s why they’re called scareware – because they scare you.)

But in truth, the viruses and registry issues were never there in the first place, so you end up spending money to fix troubles your computer never really had.

LizaMoon is another scareware that’s causing problems for millions of Internet users.

As of March 31, 2011, this malware has been found crawling on more than 500,000 Web sites and has shown one of the most rapid virus spread in Internet history. What’s worse, this virus not only tricks you into paying for a basically useless software, it has also been reported to drain its victims’ credit cards.

Mobile phones and social networks

Mobile phones and social networks are popular new targets for online attacks.

Facebook and Twitter users are particularly vulnerable because the messages that contain malicious links come labeled with the names of people they know and trust, so they are more likely to click on these links.

URL shorteners have become common tools for driving people to malicious sites, as you never really know what you’re clicking on until you’ve reached the site.

Mobile phones are also popular targets these days. After all, as Denis Maslennikov, a senior malware analyst at Kaspersky Lab, explains, “Any mobile device, be it a smartphone or a basic mobile phone, has a direct connection to its owner’s money via their mobile account.”

Router attack

While you’re worrying about your computers and your Web site, by the way, you might want to worry about your router as well. Hackers who have gotten bored with taking down Web servers through traffic flooding are now shifting their attention on routers, taking advantage of the vulnerabilities of the Border Gateway Protocol to take servers down.

Unfortunately, there is not yet a quick-and-easy way to protect routers from hacking.

In addition to implementing tighter authentication processes, filtering direct traffic better, and getting tools to detect and trace attacks, ISPs and carriers need to band together and, as a group, implement a protocol that will tighten overall security. This will prevent hackers from infiltrating a secured ISP by tunneling through a trusted-but-less-secure ISP network.

Protecting ourselves

For most of us, the best and easiest way to protect ourselves online is by investing in good quality Internet protection software. If you’re low risk, meaning you don’t download a lot of stuff and seldom click on links, you can survive on a free one – and there are many good free anti-malware programs from reputable companies out there.

However, if you love to download files, be they movies, PDFs, and most especially, software, or if you like to click links on Twitter or Facebook, you should definitely invest in a good, paid Internet protection software.

Remember to always buy from the manufacturer’s site. And never trust pop-ups that claim to find more problems than your reputable antivirus software has warned you about.

Malware may have grown more sophisticated these days, but antivirus companies have likewise grown smarter. There’s no reason why you should be out in the cold when it comes to online protection.

Apple Issues Security Update to Defend Against MacDefender Malware

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In the recent times, cybercriminals have been targeting Mac users with fake anti-virus solutions. Scammers are using search engine poisoning to lead Internet users to malicious websites. When users search for images related to latest news such as Royal Wedding, Osama Bin Laden’s death or even Mother’s day, they also receive poisoned search results. Users who happen to visit a malicious website, receive a pop-up of a fake anti-virus scanner, which alerts that system is infected with malware. The attack seeks users to download “anti-virus” software, which comes in the form of a MacDefender, MacGuard, MacProtector and MacSecurity. The software is actually a malware, designed to extract confidential information such as credit card numbers. The attack comes in various variants. While the earlier versions of the attack sought administrator password from users to download the malware, security researchers recently identified a new version of the attack wherein users are not required to enter passwords. When users visit a specially crafted malicious site, the malware is downloaded automatically in their systems. In some cases, attackers extract personal and financial information such as name, address, contact numbers, e-mail address and credit card numbers by enticing users to purchase the fake security software.

Recently, Apple released a security update to detect and delete MacDefender malware and other variants. The latest update is available for Mac OS X 10.6.7 (Snow Leopard). The update has added the definition of MacDefender and other variants in circulation enabling examination of downloaded files and alerting users against malicious downloads. The new update will allow the system to check for daily updates to the file quarantine malware definition list and automatically update the known malware definitions. Users have the option to uncheck the daily additions to malware definitions. According to the security update by Apple, the latest update will detect and remove the known variants of the malware during the installation process and alert users after completion of installation.

Snow Leopard users must immediately install the update by directly visiting the site of the vendor or clicking on software updates option. Internet users must be wary of clicking on suspicious links in search results, third party links on legitimate websites, and links in e-mail coming from unknown sources. They must download genuine anti-virus software by directly visiting the site of a legitimate security software vendor. As attackers may use social engineering techniques to make users reveal privileged information, organizations must create awareness on security threats among employees through huddle sessions and workshops. Attackers may impersonate as a peer, subordinate, superior or stakeholder to extract privileged business or customer information from employees. Employees may also fulfill their security training requirements through online degree courses on cyber security.

Hiring professionals qualified in computer science degree and masters of security science may help organizations in timely detection of threat vectors and initiating mitigating measures.

Cybercriminals constantly evolve their modus operandi to deceive Internet users, and breach computer and network security. Therefore, IT professionals must update their technical skills and know-how to deal with ever evolving cyber security threats. They may leverage online university degree, online training and iPad training programs to enhance their capabilities.

PBS Suffers Security Breach

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Recently, attackers intruded into the servers and defaced Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) NewsHour blog site. A group called “Lulz Sec” has claimed responsibility for the attack. Intruders were allegedly successful in extracting over 2000 login credentials. Attackers have published the login credentials of employees, passwords related to PBS servers, PBS affiliates, and PBS press accounts. The group has also leaked the network map of the company’s website. The distinguishing feature of the latest attack is that attackers also posted fake news on the site. The fake news claimed that singer Tupac Shakur, who died in 1996, is alive and is staying in New Zealand. Attackers are reportedly still posting items on the blog site. Attackers allegedly used SQL injection attack to breach the security of PBS servers.

PBS has started notifying the affected users of the security breach. Information security professionals of the organization are working to reclaim control of the website, and were successful in removing the fake news from the site. The attack was in response to the alleged negative representation of WikiLeaks in a documentary by PBS Frontline. Lulz Sec has been in the news for attacks on one of Sony companies in Japan, as well as leakage of login credentials of Fox employees. The group was also successful in gaining unauthorized access to Twitter accounts of some of Fox affiliates and posted arbitrary messages.

Cyber-attacks have been vibrant in the current year with several high profile attacks such as the one on HBGary Federal, Hyundai Capital, Epsilon, RSA, SonyPSN network and other Sony companies, and Lockheed Martin. The frequent security and data breach incidents accentuate the need for heightened security measures to safeguard networks, websites, and computer systems. Availability, confidentiality, and security of business and customer information are crucial for uninterrupted business operations, and maintaining public trust.

Proper validation of input and output, use of parameterized queries, encryption of passwords, timely identification of SQL vulnerabilities and application of requisite patches, use of stored procedures and regular security evaluation may help organizations in defending the websites from SQL injection attacks. The highly sophisticated cyber-attacks make it necessary for organizations to ensure that employees are aware of various Internet-based threats and safe online computing practices. Huddle sessions, e-learning programs, introducing rewards and penalties, periodic counseling may help employees in understanding and adhering to best IT security practices. Mandatory diploma and online degree courses on IT security may also help in improving security awareness among employees. The prevailing security scenario makes it important for IT professionals to constantly improve their technical expertise. Working professionals may self-pace their learning through online video training, iPad training, and online university degree courses.

Security and data breach incidents have severe repercussions on the affected parties. Affected individuals and groups must immediately change their passwords. Use of strong and unique password is a fundamental, but often ignored aspect of cyber security. Internet users often use common and easily predictable passwords for the sake of convenience and easy remembrance. Cybercriminals may leverage user negligence and compromise user accounts, conduct unauthorized transactions, transfer funds, misrepresent users, send fictitious and indecent messages, and use e-mail accounts for propagating spam. As such, Internet users must use unique and unpredictable passwords for different online user accounts.

Frequent security breach incidents has led to increased demand for cyber security specialists qualified in computer administration, network administration, incident management, penetration testing, masters of security science, computer science degree, and computer forensics.

Home Decor Security And Safety of House Office

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Home Decor is important for bedrooms, kitchen, dining and parts of the house to make it look classy. Art glasses, energy saving devices, sports memorabilia and classy lighting appliances are some of the essential items required for home decor. As we spend most of our time in office, the place should be relaxing to work at. That’s why new HR policies and modern outlook are stressing on office decorations. Apart from aesthetics issues, there are some more important issues of security for both houses and offices. In fact, many experts are of the opinion that security appliances should also be included in the paradigm of home decor because these are the appliance that protects us from untoward incidents in this world of hooliganism, terrorism, vandalism, robbery and theft. If our house or office is not secured then what’s the meaning of decorating them? This is why many home decor specialists are of the opinion that security applications are also needed to be included in the home decor paradigm.
Security Guard London has also ventured into providing services in real estate, both commercial as well as residential. In the residential property services, the variants available are Single family detached home, Portable dwellings, Duplex and Semi detached dwellings. Some of the real estate services offered in USA include Co-op (or Cooperative), Condominium, terraced house, Apartment and Multifamily house.

Travel security becomes a necessity for those people who are on a tour, especially international. In fact, expatriates also need travel security for enhanced security and safety. High end technological acumen coupled with sound infrastructure and professional security personnel helps Security Guard London to offer the best service possible.

It provides a comprehensive security solution to corporate and individual alike by providing security consultancy, analysis and assistance services. They are also equipped to provide complete security and safety to workforce of a company all over the world through their global network and presence. Security Guard London is equipped in providing integrated risk management plans, strategies and responses to businesses for smooth functioning.

Home Decor and Security Concerns in UK

All over United Kingdom, the greatest concern of the home owners is home security. The rate at which incidents of burglary, invasion, vandalism, terrorist activities, etc are taking place in UK, people are finding themselves and their families in a more insured state. This is the reason why security guarding of home as well as offices has not only become important but has also been included in the scope of home decor.

Some of the security systems that are included in your home decor include:

  • DIY Systems or Own Security System
  • Wired Systems
  • Wireless Systems
  • Hybrid Systems

Devices that have become important for enhancing the security of your house or office include:

  1. Remote Monitoring and Close Circuit Television (CCTV)
  2. Visitor Management System & Access Control
  3. Door Supervisors
  4. Traffic management tools

These are part of the security based home decor paradigm.

Internet Security Tips For Businesses

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Internet has become a lifeline for today’s businesses. Whether you are running an e-Commerce portal or a traditional business, you need Internet to run day-to-day operations. You may need to check the bank account information online or want to book air tickets without thinking twice that information can be viewed by others and misused. Now, when Internet dependence has reached new heights, are we able to answer the most critical question – Is Internet Secure?

A fragile network security can ruin the operations of your business. A world without internet security services would be very much similar to the living in a stone age. Without a proper plan against security threats you and your company are exposed to productivity distractions, liability risks and security problems. Seeing the phenomenal rise in Internet dependence, you cannot tame the Internet usage in your organization. Instead, you should opt for strategically devised Internet security plans. To develop an intrinsic and robust security system, you can start with the following pointers:

Draft a Strong Content Policy: Educate your employees about malware and virus hidden in content or web codes and which can damage the computing resources. Content policy should not hinder the work of your employees but should help to create a more productive environment while they choose to use Internet usage in office duration.

Central Anti-virus Software: Install anti-virus software that can be managed from a single point or server, and receive security updates. This centrally managed software will scan the entire network of PCs for Trojans, malware, worms, bugs and other security threats. Businesses can go for the software program that is either recommended by vendors or choose anyone that can be managed without much technical expertise. A service provider would though, take the time to study the organization and try to understand the internet usage. He would also handle the upgrades and maintenance of it. Some Internet service providers also provide corporate antivirus packages for Internet security with broadband connections.

Intrusion Detection Capable Firewall: Hackers have evolved with the times. Hacking has become more of an art form where they keep inventing codes to match up with the advancements in the network security. Worms such as Sasser and Code Red can sail through the ordinary firewall appearing as innocent as normal Internet traffic. So, firewall with Intrusion Detection Capability is able to detect, recognize and fend off the malicious disguised threats on your network.

Host-Based Intrusion Detection: While your Intrusion detection firewall will handle the external threats; the host based firewall will detect the accidental or intentional security threats arising within the network.
Digital Signatures: Digital signatures increase the reputation and credibility of web encrypted documents. If your business need to meet government regulations, digital signature becomes even more mandatory. For instance, an outsourcing service provider can secure the confidential documents with digital signature making sure that only the intended sender and recipient can access it. You can also take the help of third party internet security services provider for digital signature.

By adopting these reliable security measures into practice, any company ranging from a start up to Fortune 500 can secure its computing resources, information and data from malware, worms, viruses and hacking threats.

Boost Wireless Home Network Security To Enjoy Secure Surfing

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The Internet and World Wide Web are widening their grip and gradually taking the entire world in their grip. More and more people are setting up home network in order to gain the endless advantages of the Internet. While setting wireless home network, you should keep some important things in mind because it is more vulnerable to attacks than wired network. All Wi-Fi networking products these days come with various security features. You should configure them to block intruders. To avail network support, you can get in touch with a PC repair company. If you would like to know how to boost wireless home network security and enjoy secure computing, go through this article.

You need to change the default username and passwords. This is the first and foremost thing you should do to boost your home network security. All access points or routers come with a default username and password and it could be assessed through the web pages provided by the manufacturer. Since the username and passwords are same for all models of a particular brand, it is quite easier for the hackers to guess it.

It is also important to turn on (Compatible) WPA / WEP Encryption to secure your network. All the latest Wi-Fi equipments come with some form of encryption. The job of this encryption technology is to scramble messages that are sent over wireless networks. If it is done, then it cannot be easily read by humans. There is no dearth of encryption technologies for Wi-Fi. Whatever you pick up, make sure that all the devices on your network share the identical encryption settings.

Don’t forget to enable MAC address filtering. You may know that all Wi-Fi gear integrates a unique identifier which is known as the physical address or MAC address. It is tracked by the access points and routers whenever the devices get connected to them. Many such products offer the owner an option to key in the MAC addresses of their home equipment. It only restricts the network to allow connections from those devices. After MAC address filtering, the hackers will find fake MAC addresses.

Assign static IP addresses to all the devices. It is very easy to set up DHCP technology and hackers exploit this opportunities and they can easily obtain valid IP addresses from DHCP pool of your network. Due to this reason, it is recommended to turn off DHCP on the router and set a fixed IP address range. And then configure all the connected devices. It is always recommended to assign a private IP address range in order to block intruders.

Following these tips you can boost your wireless home network security and enjoy secure surfing.

A Better Security Arrangement With The Help of Security Cameras

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Security camera is steadily making its niche in the market. The latest technologies with which they are made makes them different from other types of security devices. Close circuit cameras have evolved with technology. You can avail the Dome Cameras, Night Vision Cameras, PTZ Cameras and many more. They are meant for protecting your business and home.

Cameras with night vision are meant for surveillance for outdoors and indoors. They have infra red LEDs around their lens. They automatically detects during low light. The infra red is usually not visible to the human eye. You can use this sort of camera in various places like in the car parking area and in the backyard. The distance of the night vision cameras usually varies from 30 meters to 100 meters. The price of these cameras also varies according to the range of the camera.

Dome cameras are mountable cameras. You can very easily mount them on the ceiling. Some of these cameras also can be mounted on the walls. A close circuit dome camera is the latest trend in security system. They have wider view, unobtrusive, can be mounted anywhere and are also versatile. They are also very cost effective as you do have to purchase lens or any kind of mounting brackets. They are generally available in various shapes and designs. You can look for day and night dome cameras or weather proof dome cameras.

You can choose the body cameras. These are considered as the traditional indoor cameras. They are generally installed in shops and offices. But you have to purchase the brackets and the lens to fix them. They are generally available in the market in variety of shapes and sizes.

There are various other types of cameras available in the market. You should know about them before purchasing them. You can contact experts from this field before purchasing the right kind of camera and you can even search the Internet before selecting any kind of model.