If you are a home, SOHO or a small business PC / network user who has a DSL or cable connection to the Internet, most likely you are thinking: “I’m not a large corporation with high-tech secrets worth stealing. Surely I don’t have anything that hackers could want or use. Why should I invest in security?”
In a series of three articles titled ‘Security 101’, we aim to deliver valuable information that will enable you to knowledgably evaluate your need for security.
In this first article, we will look briefly throught who the “bad guys” are, what they may want and why they would target you.
Who are “They”?
“They” can be anyone from bored school kids to people with malicious intentions. Hacking “tools” can be found easily on websites, web forums, and even at your local bookstore. Anyone can become a “hacker” and a potential threat to your network.
What do they want?
Here are some examples of what hackers could want from you:
❖ Your computing resources
❖ Your Internet connection bandwidth
❖ Your network/PC identity
❖ Your personal or corporate identity
❖ A place to practice
Why me?
Why would a hacker bother with you?
Who is easier to target, home and small to medium-sized companies who do not think there is a need to invest in network security, or a large organization that invests in the latest security solutions?
Hacking is indiscriminate. Usually, you will be a random victim. Hackers first test for vulnerability, which is generally done with scanning tools that query blocks of arbitrary Internet addresses, hunting for gaps in ANY network or PC connected to the Internet.
There have been several studies that estimate about one in two small/medium companies will be hacked this year. The majority of those attacked will not even realize it.
Without security, you are exposed to the risk of being hacked. Not because hackers are specifically targeting you, but because you are an easy target and there is less chance of them getting caught.
Note: Next month we will look at the real risks you are facing without adequate security.
Gadget Spotlight
Infogrames joined forces with Thrustmaster to focus on Xbox™ gaming with two exclusive new offerings that give you hours of adrenaline-filled excitement. Thrustmaster has launched its Beretta® 92FS light gun for Xbox to coincide with Infogrames’ release of The House of the Dead III™, the latest installment in Sega’s blockbuster series and the first Xbox title to feature light gun support. The Beretta® 92FS light gun is the only replica firearm compatible with most TV sets, and was developed in close collaboration with The House of the Dead III™ team for optimal payability. These two explosive releases represent the beginning of a new era of mind-blowing Xbox shooter games and accessories.
The Beretta® 92FS light gun is for sale in most major electronics stores for 4,980yen.
Thrustmaster has a bilingual (Japanese & English) technical support line for Japan residents. The number is: 03-5447-2844.
