Brand Security – Computers
08-13-09
Hackers can break into webmail accounts and spam from your computer. Several people I know have had their computers hijacked and mass spam has been sent not only to their entire email contact list but also to hundreds of thousands of email addresses throughout the world.
I recommend you change your login password often, that way if hackers manage to get past your security, they will not maintain control of your computer and use it in repeated botnet attacks. You could even go further and change your IP address once in awhile because then they need to hack your password and locate your new address. A bit of extra work but a great way to improve security.
If you have a simple password like a name or word or combination of numbers, it’s easy to crack your code. Most webmail programs don’t block you if there are repeated attempts to log in so hackers can try thousands of times until they get through.
Some email sites will tell you when the last login or download of email took place. Look at the bottom of your email page for “last account activity”. There should be a link that that will show recent connections and the IP address. This could indicate if someone else is using your account.
Good security starts with a strong password. If it is an ordinary word or set of numbers those can be programmed or a random generator can cycle through these sequences until yours comes up. Your password should be something you can remember that’s random and contains some letters, numbers, and symbols – word-like but not a real word.
This site will provide you with ideas of how good your password is.
http://www.passwordmeter.com/
This site will suggest passwords.
http://www.pctools.com/guides/password/
Of course it is safer to come up with your own password and memorize it or write your passwords on a piece of paper and never show it to anyone (don’t recommend the latter). A weak password is a break in your security and cracks like these need to be prevented.
With new brand information, new intellectual property, online banking, email, file and folder protection – security is a priority. Don’t let someone into your computer unless you want them in.
Always think about security and protect your creative assets!
Respectfully,
Sandford Tuey
info@Playdigm.com