I am a mac user. I started on Windows 95, but due to some very shitty behavior by MS Tech Support, I switched. However, I am an Evangelical when it comes to Windows security. Spammers, virus writers spy/adware companies rely on the ignoarnce of Windows users when it comes to how their computers work.
When I stared using the Internet, I used HyperTerminal and a command line
then it was mostly using your terminal as remote to access a ftp site. or to mess with someone.
How can you secure your computer agaisnt 'malware'? The simplest is: Don't download "FREE" anything. Those IM smileys? They contain spyware. or adware.
Know what your enemy knows. Learn how your OS works. Learn about computer security. That zombie program may be used against you.
Happy Computing
Yes, it requires some time reading, but the knowledge gained will make your computing smarter. Since Microsfot could care less about your system's security, educate yoruself.
The Dummies books are good, there are some great resources on the net like webopedia,
Before you go on the internet, disallow traffic to and from your computer. Then, using BOTH a hardware firewall, and a software one, one by add the ports you will be connecting to. Multiple layers of security. Don't know how? get someone fromteh geeksquad and have them configure it in your home hoving them explain EACH AND EVERY STEP. take notes. learn. you'll be a happier windows user for it.
An example telnet session:
~> telnet bnbbbs.dyndns.org
Trying 71.235.24.216...
Connected to bnbbbs.dyndns.org.
Escape character is '^]'.
+ Address 1:320/119@fidonet using BT/2 2.60XE/Beta-XH7(mxcom) VAC++/i386
Press (ESC) for the BBS, or hold on for a few moments...
Press <Escape> to enter BBS.
Now loading Bits & Bytes BBS #2. We'll be right with you...
Welcome to Bits & Bytes BBS!
FidoNet - 1:320/119@fidonet
League 10 - 10:10/90@league10.org
AdventureNet - 33:860/1@advnet
OS2Net - 81:10/19@os2net
SysOp's TechNet - 111:4950/101@stn
SysOp: Andrew Leary
Phone: (860)535-4284
Modem: US Robotics Courier 16800 HST Dual Standard with Fax and ASL
- IBM File Transfer (Files scanned with ViruScan for your protection!)
- Message Bases for all computer users! (Fido/Adv/OS2/STN Echo/NetMail!)
- The FINEST online entertainment! (TW2002, Global War, Dragon Warz, & More!)
- InterBBS Barren Realms Elite & Falcon's Eye (Leagues 10 & 933!)
Please log in with your REAL NAME now.
New users, you will be asked for a handle to use later.
RemoteAccess 2.62.1+
Please enter your first & last name: Sindelar[d[d[
Scanning user-file ...
You must enter both your first and last names!
Please enter your first & last name: Nxxxx Sxxxx
Scanning user-file ...
UH OH!!!
I couldn't find that name anywhere in my records.
Please note that you are REQUIRED to use your REAL NAME to log on.
Make sure that you have typed your name correctly.
Name entered: Nxxxx Sxxxxx.
this is a simple legit telnet session.
A list of ports can be found here: http://www.webopedia.com/...
Other things you can do:
Learn to read the status bar at the bottom of your browser. This will let you know if the webaddress your cursor is hovering over is actually what it says it is.
Let everyone on y our address book that you will not accept attachments without prior notification. This includes family who send you photos of the kids kicking the wall. I know use a photosharing service
If you don't use telnet, close the port: 23
If you don't use an FTP program close 21,
disallow finger access: port 79
Learn to read mail headers. lots of info there.
learn to use traceroute
More online resources:
http://www.chebucto.ns.ca/... (little old,but worthwhile)
From MS:
http://www.microsoft.com/...
Keeping tabson Internet threats: The SANS STorm Center:
http://isc.sans.org/...