E-COMMERCE WONDERLAND

The advancements in technology grow at an alarming rate, and each week we see new things that we ever were possible before. According to the 2009 Security Threat Report from Sophos, one new infected Web page is discovered every 4.5 seconds. By logging on to the net, you are at risk at once. Online security threats are a big challenge today. The main threats of online security are Spyware, Computer Viruses and Hackers.

Spyware is computer software that is installed furtively on a personal computer to steal information of a user such as passwords, credit cards information, back account details, browsing habits and others without the user's knowledge. It is known to change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, or loss of Internet or functionality of other programs. Unlike viruses and worm , spyware does not usually self-replicate. The types of spyware include Trojan Horses, Key Loggers, Dialers and Adware Programs.

Computer Virus is a computer program that can spread itself and infect a computer without the permission or knowledge of the owner. Most personal computers are now connected to the Internet and to local area networks, facilitating the spread of malicious code. Today's viruses may also take advantage of network services such as the World Wide Web ,E-mail, Instant Messaging , and file sharing systems and virus will be sent through the infected file or mail. Moreover, our email address book will be one of the sources for the virus to find new people to attack.

Hackers are increasingly motivated by money and stealing our bank account and credit card information. Hackers will try to hack into the computer system, get the information and transfer the money to their account without authorized by the top management. Therefore, in order to avoid yourself getting involed in the threat, users must protect their computer by installing anti-virus software, such as Avira Anti Virus and always be alert when using internet.

By Sze Ying