GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
Internet Threats and Security Issues
Introduction
This module will introduce the learners to the Information and Communication Technology. It
will allow the students to know, understand and apply the concept of Internet. The students will also be
informed about the Internet threats and security issues.
Course Learning Outcomes:
After completing this course, learners will be able to
• Identify and Explain Internet Threats
• Identify and Explain Ways to Protect Your Identity Online
Infamous viruses of the digital age
Following are some of the most well-known or significant viruses that have grown in step with
the role of information technology in society:
• Computer viruses have been around for quite a bit and nearly all of them have been spread
through the Internet or its predecessors. Most viruses have been designed to steal users'
information, processing power and/or disable the system all together.
• The first computer virus, called "Creeper system", was an experimental self-replicating virus
released in 1971. It was filling up the hard drive until a computer could not operate any
further. This virus was created by BBN technologies in the US.
• The first computer virus for MS-DOS was "Brain" and was released in 1986. It would
overwrite the boot sector on the floppy disk and prevent the computer from booting. It was
written by two brothers from Pakistan and was originally designed as a copy protection.
• "The Morris" was the first Computer virus which spread extensively in the wild in 1988. It
was written by Robert Morris, a graduate student from Cornell University who wanted to use
it to determine the size of the internet. His approach used security holes in sendmail and
other Unix applications as well as weak passwords, but due to a programming mistake it
spread too fast and started to interfere with the normal operation of the computers. It
infected around 15,000 computers in 15 hours, which back then was most of the internet.
• In 1991, the "Michelangelo" virus was first discovered in Australia. It would lay dormant
until 6th March every year and then overwrite the first one hundred sectors on the storage
devices with zeros, preventing the computer from booting. Only 20,000 computers were
reported infected.
• In 1998, CIH was released. It infected around 60 million computers and caused significant
damages by overwriting important system files. It was written by a Taiwanese student.
• In 1999, "Melissa" was released. This one, was the first wide spread Word Macro Virus. It
was distributed via email and would automatically send itself to the first 50 people in the
Outlook address book. It did not harm the computer as it was sending out passwords for
some erotic websites which required membership. It caused so much email traffic resulting
in email servers to crash.
• 2000 was the year of "iloveyou". Again, it came via email however it sent itself to all
contacts. It also overwrote office, image, and audio files. The virus came from the Philippines
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
2
and infected over 50 million computers in less than 10 days. Most companies back then
decided to turn off their email servers to stop spreading the virus.
• Since 2000, so many new viruses have been unleashed to wreak havoc on the world at
large that it is difficult to list the most infamous. "Anna Kournikova", Code Red, Nimba,
Beast, SQL Slammer, Blaster, Sobig, Sober, MyDoom, Netsky, Zeus, Conficker, Stuxnet,
CryptoLocker, Locky, Mirai and WannaCry, are a few examples that come to mind.
Common Internet Security Threats and How to Avoid Them
What is Malware?
Malware stands for Malicious software. It refers to any code or program created with the intent to
exploit, harm or otherwise compromise computer systems, networks, or data. Malware can
damage systems, steal information, spy on users, or give attackers unauthorized access.
1. Computer Viruses
Computer viruses are the most common among internet security threats out there. Viruses enter
your computers by attaching to a host file or a system. Once they enter your computer, they can
create damage instantly or remain dormant.
The goal of viruses is to infect your other computers and networked systems.
One of the basic steps to protecting your computers from viruses is by setting up a firewall. This
firewall works by blocking external access to your network systems.
A firewall is not 100% foolproof. But it will at least deter or slow down cyber attackers.
2. Phishing
The main targets of a phishing attack include your usernames, passwords, and credit card
information.
They steal valuable data by pretending to be banks and financial institutions, and they can also
impersonate reputable websites and even some of your personal contacts.
They use emails or instant messages that look legitimate at first glance. Their messages come with
URLs that prompt you to input your personal information. In turn, they’ll steal your credentials and
use them to access your accounts.
To keep away from phishing attacks, be mindful of the emails and messages you receive. If you
don’t know the sender, think twice before opening the message.
Also, check the content of your emails before opening any links. If you see a lot of misspelled
words, then a phishing attack is possible.
Additionally, invest in a total security program that offers protection against phishing attacks.
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
3
3. Botnets
Of all the different forms of internet security threats, this is one of the most dangerous. A botnet is
similar to malware. However, it involves a network of computers that hackers compromised.
In turn, hackers use it to control the infected computers within the network. What makes it even
more dangerous is that hackers can control the network remotely.
Since the end goal of botnets is to force you to pay a ransom, installing a dependable security
program is paramount. And if you discover one of your computers carries a botnet, you must
remove the software and run an antivirus scan thereafter.
4. Trojan Horse
A Trojan Horse is a program that looks legitimate and harmless. But in reality, it is a vector that
carries many harmful viruses. Once it gains network access, it can steal sensitive company data.
The most common method for Trojan Horse attacks is through email. The email usually comes with
a link or attachment containing the viruses. Once you open the attachment, it automatically
downloads malware to your computer.
Apart from installing cybersecurity software, you should update your software regularly. This also
includes your security patches.
5. Rootkit
Similar to botnets, a rootkit allows hackers to access your system remotely. They do this by placing
a collection of tools on your network. Some of the common forms of rootkit attacks include the
stealing of passwords and disabling antiviruses, among others.
Rootkits enter your network if your system security is vulnerable. Thus, the solution is to keep your
patches up-to-date.
6. Ransomware
Locks or encrypts files and demands payment (ransom) to restore access. One of the most
dangerous forms of malware.
To avoid or prevent, keep backups of important data; don’t click on suspicious email links; and
keep software / OS updated or patched.
7. Worm
A worm is a self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without human intervention. It
uses a network to send copies of itself to other nodes (computer on the network) and it may do so
without any user intervention. It consumes bandwidth and can crash systems.
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
4
To prevent, use firewalls to block unauthorized access; avoid downloading unknown files; and
Disable file-sharing if unnecessary.
8. Adware
Displays unwanted advertisements, often bundled with free software. Sometimes harmless but
can slow down systems and track user behavior.
To avoid, be careful with free software bundles; use ad-blocker; and avoid clicking shady ads.
9. Spyware
Secretly monitors user activity, such as keystrokes, browsing habits, or passwords. It can lead to
identity theft.
To avoid, use anti spyware protection; avoid clicking suspicious pop-us / ads; and regularly scan
your system.
B. Top 10 Ways to Protect Your Identity Online
As the percentage of the population using the internet increases, so do the security risks.
Cyber threats have become so widespread that the U.S. federal government has implemented a
research and development department designed to formulate a plan to develop technology and
create policies that minimize the potential risks in cyberspace.
With the rise in use of social media sites and networks, people are making more personal
information available to the online world, making it more difficult to protect valuable data.
Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to protect your own online identity and personal information.
9 vital tips to protect your computer from cyber-attacks
1. Use Strong Passwords
Let’s start with the basics—your passwords.
The most commonly used passwords in the cyber world are also the worst. As of 2018, the top 3
passwords in use were:
• 123456
• password
• 123456789
And people wonder why we have security breaches everywhere?
Keep your data safe by creating unique, complex passwords. The best passwords include a mix of
numbers, letters, and symbols and are at least 8 characters long.
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
5
While we’re on the topic, avoid using the same username and password combination across multiple
sites. If a hacker can access just one site, you’ve left the door wide open to the rest of your data.
2. Keep Everything up to Date
Another basic step to take is to make sure you have the latest versions of all software installed on
your devices.
Why is this so important? Because software updates include features designed to withstand the
latest security threats. Microsoft, Oracle, and other makers regularly update their software to
eliminate “bugs” that hackers could exploit.
If you’re operating a system from 3 years ago, it’s defenseless against any viruses or malware
developed in the interim. Make it a habit to install all new software updates as soon as they become
available.
3. Use Antivirus Software
Next up on our list of how to prevent computer viruses is—no surprise here—antivirus software.
Antivirus software acts as a “vaccine” against virtual viruses. It can identify and eliminate the threat
before you were even aware of it.
Microsoft Security Essentials and Avast are both free antivirus programs you can install. There’s
also a host of paid options, although experts debate whether the extra cost is really worth it.
4. Use a Firewall
Using antivirus programs doesn’t automatically mean you have a firewall.
Macs and PCs both come with pre-installed firewall software. Make sure it’s enabled to provide an
extra layer of protection from viruses and malware.
5. Install a Popup Blocker
Many attacks happen through browsers, as you’re going about your daily online routine. Hackers
can gain access to your computer from one innocent click on the wrong ad or link.
An ad or popup blocker is essential to protecting your computer’s data. It will prevent any unwanted
pages from opening automatically.
Never click on, open, or download anything unless you know exactly who it’s from. This is especially
important with emails, which is our next topic.
6. Beware of Email Phishing Scams
32% of reported security breaches begin with a phishing scam.
These appear in email form under the guise of a legitimate company. The goal is to get you to
either enter personal information or click on an infected link that allows access to your computer.
Any legitimate company will have its own domain name for emails. If an email address claims to
be from Paypal or Netflix but ends with @[Link], it’s a scam.
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
6
Other signs include misspellings, poor grammar, and suspicious attachments, buttons, or links. A
legitimate company will never invite you via email to log in and provide personal or billing
information
Here’s a good rule to live by—if in doubt, don’t click on it!
7. Educate Your Family & Staff
Most cyber-attacks happen through an innocent action by an uninformed person.
This could be a member of your family, a child, or an employee who isn’t aware of smart internet
practices.
If you have any doubts about anyone who uses your computer, take a few moments to teach them
the basics. Review a few points from this post, such as not opening emails or clicking on links from
unknown sources.
A few moments of education could mean the difference between cyberattack success or failure.
8. Know the Signs of Infection
Despite your best efforts, computer viruses can still happen.
Do you know how to identify a virus on your computer? Here are a few things to watch for:
• Repeated error messages
• Unexpected shutdowns
• Computer suddenly slows down
• Takes too long to shut down or restart
• New toolbars you didn’t install
• Changes to your homepage
• Rapidly draining battery
• Any of these signs could mean your computer is infected. If you see more than one of these
signs, you almost surely have a virus.
Make sure all your software is updated and then perform a scan. You can also search online forums
for users who have similar issues and see how they were able to solve them.
9. Consider Additional Security Features
At the very least, you should perform weekly or even daily backups of all important data. Store it
securely in the cloud or on a separate hard drive.
That way, if you do accidentally get a virus, your vital information won’t be lost or compromised.
For extra protection, you might also consider advanced security measures like endpoint security.
This protects not just your computer but your network as a whole.
How can I prevent my device from becoming infected with malware?
To prevent your devices from being infected with malware, there are a number of steps you can take:
1. Install Anti-virus software
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
7
One of the most important ways to protect against malware is to install anti-virus software. Anti-virus
software will protect your device from malicious software that poses a threat to the system. It will scan
your computer to detect and clean the malware and provide automatic updates to provide enhanced
protection against newly created viruses.
2. Regularly update software
In addition to installing anti-virus software, it’s vital to ensure that your software is regularly updated to
stop attackers gaining access to your computer through vulnerabilities in older and outdated systems.
3. Only buy Apps from trusted sources
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
8
Buying apps from trustworthy sources reduces the chance of your device being infected with malware.
Big brands will take great care to ensure they do not damage their reputation by distributing malware.
To check the authenticity of a source, you can check the full name, list of published apps and contact
details in the app description within the Google Play or Apple app store.
4. Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources
Phishing remains the easiest way for hackers to install malware on your device. Phishing scams trick
people into opening emails or clicking on a link that may appear to come from a legitimate business or
reputable source. The link may direct you to a fake website where you are prompted to enter your
personal details or take you to a website that directly infects your computer with malware. If in doubt,
don’t click the link.
5. Install Firewall
Another way to protect your device from malware is to use a firewall. A firewall prevents malicious
attacks by blocking all unauthorized access to or from a private computer network. In addition to anti-
virus software, a firewall provides an extra barrier against malware, reducing the chance of attack.
6. Back up data regularly
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.
GE Elective Living in the IT ERA
9
It’s important to back up on a regular basis to ensure that you can still retrieve all your valuable data and
files if your computer is infected with malware. This will help mitigate any damage and ensure that you
are not held victim to a ransomware attack.
The information, image/s, text or contents used in this learning module do not belong to me. This learning
module is intended for educational purposes only.