Web villains

Viruses, worms and Trojans

Viruses and worms are malware distributed through e-mail or web pages. An activated virus causes damage to files and software.

Worms spread faster than viruses, directly from one computer to another. For instance, an e-mail worm may send itself to all the e-mail addresses in the address book on the user's computer. Web worms search for devices that are connected to the internet and which do not have the latest updates installed.

A Trojan horse is a piece of malware that is disguised, for instance, as a seemingly innocuous game but which, when activated, can delete files without you knowing.

Hackers and crackers

Perpetrators of data break-in are called hackers or crackers. They can use the internet in order to break into an unprotected computer, use the computer or steal files and use them for illicit purposes.

Data break-ins are primarily prevented by means of a firewall and keeping the operating system up-to-date.

Junk on the web

Unsolicited bulk e-mail is usually called junk mail or spam. It congests e-mail systems and jams up people’s e-mail inboxes. Some e-mail worms serve as tools for junk mailers.

Five rules about e-mail:

Never open suspect messages but directly delete them from the message menu.
Do not answer junk e-mail messages.
Enable any junk e-mail filter feature provided by your ISP and/or e-mail software.
Exercise caution when giving your e-mail address in, for instance, website surveys or discussion boards.
Do not forward chain messages or circular letters.

Close suspect pop-ups

If a small window, a so-called pop-up window, appears on your screen, exhorting you to click on the window, the safest approach is to close this window by clicking on the x in the top right-hand corner. You can never be sure what the program will actually do even if you click on “No”.

Don’t be swindled

It is easy to disguise your identity on the web. Due to this, it is always smart to verify the other person's identity (e.g. on discussion boards). You should never release your own personal information through the internet to anyone other than trustworthy persons. If a website requests your personal information, check that the webmaster of the site explains in the register specification for what purpose the information will be used and whether it will be forwarded to other parties.

Discuss web use

A great deal of online material is unsuitable for underage children. Discuss web surfing and safe internet use with your students.

Further information: www.tietoturvaopas.fi

Updated 26.11.2008