To survive in today’s highly competitive business environment, which is rapidly transmuting into a cyber village, businesses have to participate in the virtual world by using Internet for not only emailing and chatting but also to tap the vast e-commerce market. However, on one hand, Internet offers limitless opportunities for the entrepreneurs. On the other hand, Internet security and risk management pose monumental challenges for the corporate world today. However, countermeasures can be and must be taken in order to address the issue.
Before plunging into the sea of security issues that surround the use of Internet, let us first look into the commonly followed definition of the umbrella term Internet Security.
Defining Internet Security
Internet security as defined “is the practice of protecting and preserving private resources and information on the Internet” (Internet Security). Hence, Internet security is the fundamental to prevent breach of e-commerce clients’ trust and the resultant violation of privacy policies in order to avoid defamation of the companies’ hard earned corporate image. This leads us to the next section of our research assignment that discusses the scope of the issue under discussion.
Why Discuss Internet Security? Scope of the Problem
Information is exchanged via Internet use in the corporate world where people can communicate with each other and sell and buy products online using credit cards. Even confidential company data and many other secrets are shared via Internet. However, this paves way for security issues, which make the “circuitous route” of the information being exchanged prone to deception, unauthenticated interruption and other security risks. On the same account, Internet security has transformed into a major concern for all Internet users (Definitions of Internet Security on the web). Therefore, Internet security issues and risk management tips need to be discussed and highlighted for the benefit of the readers and the users alike.
Security-related Risks Associated with Internet Use and Management Strategies
Internet doubtless ameliorates corporate communication, “information sharing, market effectiveness and productivity” (Paliouras). Nonetheless, Internet use has often resulted in “security breaches with known or unknown undesirable consequences ranging from a crippled or hacked corporate network to a ruined reputation and costly litigation”. Consequently, content of the emails must be filtered to prevent the above mentioned organizational issues. (Paliouras).
Risk Management via Content Filtering
“Klez worm” including other viruses that can seriously damage the computer system, “junk mail”, shopping online using Internet and visiting obscene sites at the organizational cost augment security risks (Paliouras). These risks can be reduced by making sure that employees avoid using company Internet services for irrelevant tasks. However, emails are highly important for business communication and “content filtering” is the best solution to manage security risks. “Advanced text analysis is necessary to prevent users from sending sexually explicit text and racial epithets or sensitive information to unauthorized parties. Lexical analysis is one way to cut down leak of confidential information as most of these files include special words or phrases” (Paliouras). Moreover, “keyword searching and inspection” as well as “advanced image analysis” are some of the really effective weapons to reduce security risks associated with Internet use.
This is where the significance of information systems comes into play. With the aid of constructing appropriate systems and using adequate content filtering software, companies can block unnecessary and potentially harmful and insecure attachments from entering and infecting the computers.
A three-step approach inclusive of conceiving, constructing and consolidating been recommended by information systems companies in order to efficiently with security risks associated with the use of Internet (Internet security challenges). However, the extent to which Internet use is secured primarily depends upon the company’s “security awareness” (Katos). When electronically operating firms believe in cherishing their clientele’s trust and therefore make every attempt to secure their operations via security checks, secured systems and well-planned security policies, security risks tremendously plummet and the firm’s reputation improves. Also, with security awareness, firms tend to be better equipped with latest advancements in the field of information systems.
Conclusion
Hence from the above discussion it is evident that Internet security and risk management pose monumental challenges for the corporate world today. However, countermeasures can be and must be taken in order to address the issue. Those computer organizations that take help and make the most out of Information Systems are the ones that benefit the most in the long run. This is because Information systems offer a vast variety of security software, with the aid of which, organizations can reduce the risk of Internet use. Managing Internet security related risks is no long an out-of-this-word task if adequate knowledge and timely application of Information systems is made available. Therefore, to address Internet security issues, the basic knowledge of Information Systems Fundamentals is essential. Moreover, extensive research and progress is demanded in the field of information systems in order to create “new defense mechanisms”
About the author:
Tim Johnson Junior is a freelance writer, CRWA certified resume writer and career coach. Has written over 2000 articles and essays on the subject of Social Issues. Has worked for Essaymart's custom writing department from 2003 to 2005. Currently, Tim is busy helping professionals and executives optimize their careers at a certified Resume Writing firm, ResumeAid.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
And The Best Antivirus Is…
One thing I always hate to do is to find the best Antivirus program that will protect my computer. The two best paid versions that I have always heard about are Kaspersky and NOD32. For free software, I always look towards Avast or AVG. Of course, that is what I knew before but it looks like there may be some new people climbing the ladder.
Virus.gr tested quite a few different software companies to see how they would stack up against each other. How did the 147,000+ virus test pan out? Here are the results (the ones in bold are the ones I expected to do good):
1. Kaspersky version 6.0.0.303 - 99.62%
2. Active Virus Shield by AOL version 6.0.0.299 - 99.62%
3. F-Secure 2006 version 6.12.90 - 96.86%
4. BitDefender Professional version 9 - 96.63%
5. CyberScrub version 1.0 - 95.98%
6. eScan version 8.0.671.1 - 95.82%
7. BitDefender freeware version 8.0.202 - 95.57%
8. BullGuard version 6.1 - 95.57%
9. AntiVir Premium version 7.01.01.02 - 95.45%
10. Nod32 version 2.51.30 - 95.14%
11. AntiVir Classic version 7.01.01.02 - 94.26%
12. ViruScape 2006 version 1.02.0935.0137 - 93.87%
13. McAfee version 10.0.27 - 93.03%
14. McAfee Enterprise version 8.0.0 - 91.76%
15. F-Prot version 6.0.4.3 beta - 87.88%
16. Avast Professional version 4.7.871 - 87.46%
17. Avast freeware version 4.7.871 - 87.46%
18. Dr. Web version 4.33.2 - 86.03%
19. Norman version 5.90.23 - 85.65%
20. F-Prot version 3.16f - 85.14%
21. ArcaVir 2006 - 83.44%
22. Norton Professional 2006 - 83.18%
23. AVG Professional version 7.1.405 - 82.82%
24. AVG freeware version 7.1.405 - 82.82%
25. Panda 2007 version 2.00.01 - 82.23%
26. Virus Chaser version 5.0a - 81.47%
27. PC-Cillin 2006 version 14.10.1051 - 80.90%
28. VBA32 version 3.11.0 - 79.12%
29. ViRobot Expert version 4.0 - 76.22%
30. UNA version 1.83 - 75.44%
There’s the list and as you can see there are several towards the top that really shocked me. The one I am most happy about is the Active Virus Shield by AOL because it is offered to the public for free. Sure it branded as AOL but underneath it is all Kaspersky and this goes to show it.
I expected NOD32, Avast, and AVG to perform a little better than they did but NOD32 and AVG definitely fought back at the heuristic testing. Heuristic testing is extremely important because that is what gives an Antivirus the ability to catch a virus even it is not in the database. Here are the top 10 from that list:
1. Nod32 2.51.30 - 41503
2. Vba32 3.11.0 - 32911
3. VirIT 6.1.9 - 16469
4. AVG 7.1.405 Professional - 13624
5. AVG 7.1.405 freeware - 13624
6. Rising AV 18.41.30 - 12214
7. McAfee 10.0.27 - 10708
8. Ikarus 5.19 - 7191
9. F-Prot 6.0.4.3 beta - 6247
10. Ukrainian National Antivirus 1.83 - 5506
One thing is for sure and that is Norton needs some work for as much as it costs. So many people rely on Symantec’s software because that is what comes installed on most computers but it obviously won’t provide the protection that is needed.
I fix computers for people all of the time and when I find that their Antivirus subscriptions have expired I normally install Avast. After seeing these tests it definitely makes me ponder using Active Virus Shield by AOL because of the high ranking. Avast does have the Web Shield which stops malicious attacks through your Web browser and I really like that feature. I wonder what is more important, the overall ability to find a virus or being able to block Web attacks?
DIGG IT!
Virus.gr tested quite a few different software companies to see how they would stack up against each other. How did the 147,000+ virus test pan out? Here are the results (the ones in bold are the ones I expected to do good):
1. Kaspersky version 6.0.0.303 - 99.62%
2. Active Virus Shield by AOL version 6.0.0.299 - 99.62%
3. F-Secure 2006 version 6.12.90 - 96.86%
4. BitDefender Professional version 9 - 96.63%
5. CyberScrub version 1.0 - 95.98%
6. eScan version 8.0.671.1 - 95.82%
7. BitDefender freeware version 8.0.202 - 95.57%
8. BullGuard version 6.1 - 95.57%
9. AntiVir Premium version 7.01.01.02 - 95.45%
10. Nod32 version 2.51.30 - 95.14%
11. AntiVir Classic version 7.01.01.02 - 94.26%
12. ViruScape 2006 version 1.02.0935.0137 - 93.87%
13. McAfee version 10.0.27 - 93.03%
14. McAfee Enterprise version 8.0.0 - 91.76%
15. F-Prot version 6.0.4.3 beta - 87.88%
16. Avast Professional version 4.7.871 - 87.46%
17. Avast freeware version 4.7.871 - 87.46%
18. Dr. Web version 4.33.2 - 86.03%
19. Norman version 5.90.23 - 85.65%
20. F-Prot version 3.16f - 85.14%
21. ArcaVir 2006 - 83.44%
22. Norton Professional 2006 - 83.18%
23. AVG Professional version 7.1.405 - 82.82%
24. AVG freeware version 7.1.405 - 82.82%
25. Panda 2007 version 2.00.01 - 82.23%
26. Virus Chaser version 5.0a - 81.47%
27. PC-Cillin 2006 version 14.10.1051 - 80.90%
28. VBA32 version 3.11.0 - 79.12%
29. ViRobot Expert version 4.0 - 76.22%
30. UNA version 1.83 - 75.44%
There’s the list and as you can see there are several towards the top that really shocked me. The one I am most happy about is the Active Virus Shield by AOL because it is offered to the public for free. Sure it branded as AOL but underneath it is all Kaspersky and this goes to show it.
I expected NOD32, Avast, and AVG to perform a little better than they did but NOD32 and AVG definitely fought back at the heuristic testing. Heuristic testing is extremely important because that is what gives an Antivirus the ability to catch a virus even it is not in the database. Here are the top 10 from that list:
1. Nod32 2.51.30 - 41503
2. Vba32 3.11.0 - 32911
3. VirIT 6.1.9 - 16469
4. AVG 7.1.405 Professional - 13624
5. AVG 7.1.405 freeware - 13624
6. Rising AV 18.41.30 - 12214
7. McAfee 10.0.27 - 10708
8. Ikarus 5.19 - 7191
9. F-Prot 6.0.4.3 beta - 6247
10. Ukrainian National Antivirus 1.83 - 5506
One thing is for sure and that is Norton needs some work for as much as it costs. So many people rely on Symantec’s software because that is what comes installed on most computers but it obviously won’t provide the protection that is needed.
I fix computers for people all of the time and when I find that their Antivirus subscriptions have expired I normally install Avast. After seeing these tests it definitely makes me ponder using Active Virus Shield by AOL because of the high ranking. Avast does have the Web Shield which stops malicious attacks through your Web browser and I really like that feature. I wonder what is more important, the overall ability to find a virus or being able to block Web attacks?
DIGG IT!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Discovering The Best Antivirus Software For You
Antivirus software refers to computer programs or tools that are used for identifying, blocking, and removing malicious applications such as computer viruses and malwares from the system. They have become essential tools for any computer user in today’s world of constant threat from virus attacks, spywares, system hijackers, etc.
An antivirus application performs two basic functions. The first is to scan all files, according to user preference, and identify the virus based on matching definitions in its database. This is known as virus dictionary or database approach of identifying viruses. Secondly, if run in real time, it tries to identify and suspicious activities occurring in the system, which may be triggered by other computer programs in the operating system. This is known as suspicious behavior approach. These two functions are the basis on which most antivirus software programs are built.
The Database Approach:
When the antivirus identifies a virus that matches any code or definition in its database, it will alert the user, and the user has the option of repairing, quarantining, deleting or analyzing the infected file. If the virus cannot be removed from the infected file, it is usually set to quarantine. However, users also have the option of immediately deleting the file thereby eliminating any further threats, or before the virus can execute itself. The infected file can also be sent to the software company for analysis and inclusion in the database, or if the antivirus has the feature, the user can analyze the infected file by self.
Since new viruses are created everyday, the virus database of the antivirus has to be updated continually. Almost all database updates are free and they can be scheduled or done manually.
Suspicious Behavior Approach:
There is no attempt to identify known viruses here like in the dictionary approach. Every activity and behavior in the system is monitored here by the antivirus. Therefore, this approach may protect from new viruses which has not yet been identified out of suspicion. However, this approach has mostly been abandoned by many antivirus companies because of its tendency to sound too many false positives. And today, there are so many non-malicious programs which can modify other executable files in disregard to the false positive issue. So this technique has become almost obsolete.
Popular Antivirus Software:
Norton Antivirus: One of the most well-known antivirus software, Norton automatically detects and removes viruses, rids computer of unwanted spyware, and scans email and IM attachments for threats.
McAfee VirusScan: The antivirus detects, blocks, and removes viruses and spyware, and protects irreplaceable documents such as digital photos, family movies, and financial spreadsheets, identity theft and slower PC performance.
PC-cillin Internet Security: From Trend Micro, it is an award-winning antivirus security and a personal firewall. Protects against viruses, worms, Trojans, and hackers, detects and removes spyware and blocks spam. Also protects your wireless network with Wi-Fi Intrusion Detection.
Panda Titanium: It uses TruPrevent Technologies, offering a double layer of protection against unknown viruses and intruders. It also protects system from hackers, phishing and other online fraud.
By: George Royal -
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
An antivirus application performs two basic functions. The first is to scan all files, according to user preference, and identify the virus based on matching definitions in its database. This is known as virus dictionary or database approach of identifying viruses. Secondly, if run in real time, it tries to identify and suspicious activities occurring in the system, which may be triggered by other computer programs in the operating system. This is known as suspicious behavior approach. These two functions are the basis on which most antivirus software programs are built.
The Database Approach:
When the antivirus identifies a virus that matches any code or definition in its database, it will alert the user, and the user has the option of repairing, quarantining, deleting or analyzing the infected file. If the virus cannot be removed from the infected file, it is usually set to quarantine. However, users also have the option of immediately deleting the file thereby eliminating any further threats, or before the virus can execute itself. The infected file can also be sent to the software company for analysis and inclusion in the database, or if the antivirus has the feature, the user can analyze the infected file by self.
Since new viruses are created everyday, the virus database of the antivirus has to be updated continually. Almost all database updates are free and they can be scheduled or done manually.
Suspicious Behavior Approach:
There is no attempt to identify known viruses here like in the dictionary approach. Every activity and behavior in the system is monitored here by the antivirus. Therefore, this approach may protect from new viruses which has not yet been identified out of suspicion. However, this approach has mostly been abandoned by many antivirus companies because of its tendency to sound too many false positives. And today, there are so many non-malicious programs which can modify other executable files in disregard to the false positive issue. So this technique has become almost obsolete.
Popular Antivirus Software:
Norton Antivirus: One of the most well-known antivirus software, Norton automatically detects and removes viruses, rids computer of unwanted spyware, and scans email and IM attachments for threats.
McAfee VirusScan: The antivirus detects, blocks, and removes viruses and spyware, and protects irreplaceable documents such as digital photos, family movies, and financial spreadsheets, identity theft and slower PC performance.
PC-cillin Internet Security: From Trend Micro, it is an award-winning antivirus security and a personal firewall. Protects against viruses, worms, Trojans, and hackers, detects and removes spyware and blocks spam. Also protects your wireless network with Wi-Fi Intrusion Detection.
Panda Titanium: It uses TruPrevent Technologies, offering a double layer of protection against unknown viruses and intruders. It also protects system from hackers, phishing and other online fraud.
By: George Royal -
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Should I Buy An Anti Virus Software Or Not
As you sit in front of your PC tapping away on your favourite programme, playing your favourite game or just writing an email to close friend or relative, when suddenly your mind wanders and you keep asking yourself why would anybody want to hack into my computer or even send a virus my way to destroy my computer. What possible enjoyment can anybody get from doing this, I have often asked myself the same question, but who knows how the minds of some work. Today’s modern criminals don’t care who you are or even what would happen to you should they succeed in their attempts to invader your privacy, but don’t despair there are answers.The first thing you should consider is a good anti virus software solution, but don’t be fooled into thinking I will just get one of those free solutions available on the internet, why would anything that’s free be in any good. Remember you are protecting your computer, your life. As you consider what to buy ask yourself some important questions, if I run into difficulty trying to install it on my PC is there support available for me, what about ease of use, you know yourself how computer literate you are, buying something you will never really know how to use is a complete waste of time really.Other things you should consider are updates, will you get these free or will your new anti virus software be a complete drain on your wallet, how will you know if they become available. With my anti virus I get a prompt in my system tray to inform me that updates have become available saving me the need to keep checking an internet site to find them. What about scheduling jobs, can it check your computer regularly without you having to set it going and can you control when and how often it does it. Will it work with my email software as I know this is a proven way of a virus being sent?Lots of things to consider I know but with all the available anti virus software on the market today you should really not be leaving yourself vulnerable to these sort of malicious attacks from people who really couldn’t careless about the damage and upset they cause. I know what your know thinking I have heard that anti virus software can actually interfere with some of the programmes already on my computer and in some cases this is true, I have experienced this myself especially with online software, but do you really want to leave yourself open to these sorts of attacks, I know I would rather protect my privacy and computer then be able to use some nice piece of software on the internet that is going to leave me open to attack.Something else you may wish to consider is back ups, if you use your computer regularly you should back up your important files to CD or even use an online resource to do this for you, One I know of is Carbonite, as should the unthinkable actually happen and a virus does attack your computer it could all be too late.I know I enjoy my online experiences and love using my computer and can’t believe how far the world has progressed in my lifetime but for all the good things in life there is always somebody wanting to ruin it for you so if you don’t take my advise seek that of others and protect yourself with a good anti virus software and don’t live to regret the day that you decided that’s not for me, I have better things to spend my money. With many good products around from companies such as kaspersky, Norton, Trend and McAfee you should really protect yourself today so that you can live for the future.
By: shaun100367
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Shaun Sawyer Webmaster@www.doubleclickandgo.com
By: shaun100367
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Shaun Sawyer Webmaster@www.doubleclickandgo.com
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Everything You Need To Know About A Computer Virus
What is a computer virus?So, what is a computer virus, not only is it something that can damage the performance and life of your computer, but your mental well being as well. Combating a virus, without the help of anti-virus software such as AVG internet security, can be extremely nerve wracking and depressing because it can literally affect various parts of your computer.How are computer viruses distributed?Computer viruses are distributed in many different ways. One of the most common methods of distribution is via email. Some of the most widespread and destructive viruses are distributed via email. Typically, they come in an email that looks completely legitimate and they can even come disguised with an email you might be familiar with. Some viruses are simply spread by opening the email or by downloading an attachment. Many free emails such as Yahoo come with email virus scanners installed, which will not allow you to download the attachment if it detects a virus. Another method of virus distribution is via internet downloads. These viruses are bundled in a download and typically come from websites with hacks or peer to peer programs. When asking the question, what is a computer virus, you should also ask how you can combat or prevent the viruses from affecting your computer. There are many programs available to help you detect, remove, and prevent viruses. One of the most popular and best programs to date is AVG Internet Security, or any of the AVG products. AVG, a product created by Grisoft, is an excellent software program that is perfect for detecting and removing computer viruses. Their internet security program not only provides anti-virus protection for your computer from Trojans, worms and viruses, but it also includes anti-spyware and anti-spam protection against phishing, spam, malware, adware and spyware. Additionally, AVG internet security provides protection with a firewall, preventing hackers from accessing your computer.AVG is the best and easiest to use all in one program available for computer protection. You are constantly made aware of instant definition updates and program versions, as well as twenty-four hour a day technical support. So if you want to find out just what is a computer virus and how computer viruses are distributed, AVG is a great place to start. Not only can you get the best protection, but a number of resources are available to you as well. This enables you to learn about the latest virus threats and how you can eliminate the possibility of infection on your computer.
By: Jason Frovich
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
By: Jason Frovich
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 5.0 Review
Spyware Doctor 5.0 with AntiVirus is effectively a completely different product from Spyware Doctor 4.0. PC Tools rebuilt its flagship product from the ground up over a period of many months, developing it in parallel with the existing product. This Vista-compatible from-scratch rewrite was designed to deliver a "smaller, faster and supercharged" product. It also displays some of the problems you might expect in a version 1.0.
PC Tools developed the antivirus component entirely in-house. West Coast Labs has already awarded it Checkmark certification for virus detection and removal; ICSA Labs hasn't finished testing it yet. And it will be included in the next round of testing by Virus Bulletin. The virus and spyware scans are completely integrated, so the biggest difference you'll notice is the much longer time required for a full scan. On my standard clean system, a full scan with all options enabled needed 1 hour 15 minutes. That's not what I'd call supercharged. The faster but less-comprehensive IntelliScan component ran in about 15 minutes. Spyware Doctor 4.0 scanned the same system in 7 minutes! Of course, it wasn't trying to scan for viruses too. A better comparison would be Spy Sweeper 5.2 with Anti-Virus at just under 25 minutes or Norton Internet Security 2007 at a bit under 30 minutes. [Note: Representatives from PC Tools were surprised at my report of Intelli-Scan taking 15 minutes. Their tests showed it running in one to two minutes, though they did identify a situation in which turning AV settings to their highest could slow the scan way down. Naturally, they plan to fix that problem ASAP. And in fact, it turned out I had accidentally cranked up the AV settings on my clean test system. When I re-tested with the default settings, Intelli-Scan ran in under two minutes. It really did take fifteen minutes on the malware-infested systems; that didn't change. –njr]
Though I didn't actually measure performance before and after installation, I got the distinct impression that SD5 slowed down my test systems, especially the malware-infested ones. Launching programs from the desktop seemed to take extra long, and IE7 in particular loaded slowly. Of course, these virtual machines have significantly less memory and hard drive space than your average computer, so any performance hits will be exaggerated.
As always, Spyware Doctor employs many layers of security to keep your system free of malicious software. The first line of defense is Site Guard, which blocks access to malicious sites. Site Guard isn't browser-specific—in fact, it blocks access to bad sites even if the program trying to connect isn't a browser. Site Guard would have prevented me from downloading over half of my malware samples, about the same as Spy Sweeper's equivalent Internet Protection Shield. It also derailed the installation of several samples that require Web access for full installation.
There are a bunch of other "OnGuard" layers, too. The new E-mail Guard scans incoming and outgoing mail attachments for spyware and viruses. Startup Guard, Browser Guard and Network Guard block malicious changes to the start-up sequence, your browser, and network settings, respectively. Process Guard halts malicious processes, File Guard prevents access to known malware files, and Keylogger Guard stops keyloggers based on behavior. Taken all together this layered protection should keep out most malware. However, in testing it seemed to me that not all the OnGuard modules were pulling their weight. Process Guard and Keylogger Guard in particular didn't seem to be giving a 100 percent effort to the team, as I found during testing.—Next: Can the Doctor Cure My Ills?
Can the Doctor Cure My Ills?
I installed SD5 with AV on a clean system and let it get all available updates. Then I threw nineteen malware samples at it, including adware, spyware, Trojan horses, and rogue antispyware products. Impressively, it wiped out fifteen of the malware installers the moment I clicked on them, completely preventing any whiff of installation. The other four managed to launch, but SD5 didn't let them finish installing their malicious payloads. Wow! That's better than SD4 did, and in fact better than any other product tested with this same collection. However, it didn't hold up against my commercial keylogger samples. Where SD4 detected all eight samples and prevented installation of all but one, SD5 detected only seven and didn't completely block one of those. That's not a huge difference, but I expected as good or better performance.
Because SD5 blocked so very many of the spyware samples by whacking their installers on sight, I challenged it with a set of twenty modified samples. In each case I renamed the file and changed a few nonexecutable bytes using a byte-level editor. Here's where the OnGuard modules seemed to be asleep at the switch. SD5 still blocked eight of the modified samples from installing, but completely missed six others, including a rather nasty Trojan. As for the remaining six, it popped up warning after warning about this or that malicious behavior but didn't actually manage to keep the malware from installing. In a similar test with modified samples, NIS 2007 and Spy Sweeper 5.2 both did much better.
As usual, I tested SD5's ability to clean up existing problems by installing it on eight malware-infested systems and running its full scan, including the optional rootkit scan. One system put on a veritable fireworks display during SD5's installation, popping up dozens of messages about errors in different areas. The installation finally completed, but the program itself crashed every time I launched it. Fortunately, rebooting in Safe Mode and running a scan there solved that problem—good save!
The full scans were taking well over an hour per system, so after a few of those I switched to Intelli-Scan. This more focused scan finished in about 15 minutes and detected all of the preinstalled malware. However, several of the threats required a full scan for complete removal, so I didn't really save time. That doesn't worry me; if my antispyware reported that it detected a serious problem I would definitely scan again with every possible detection method turned on.
In the end, SD5 detected every single one of the nineteen spyware samples and successfully removed all but two. It left behind significant executable files for those other two, though they may not have been able to function at their full nasty efficiency. That's pretty good, but in an equivalent test SD4 successfully removed all but one—a different one! Here's more evidence that this really is a brand-new product. Like its predecessor, SD5 detected seven of the eight commercial keyloggers. But whereas SD4 fully removed the seven it recognized, SD5 left one crippled but running and left the rootkit portion of another still hiding.
I ran into some other oddities while testing. I have a simple text file listing my malware samples by name along with their associated files and Registry keys. SD5's full scan insisted that this file was actually a part of the SurfSideKick malware and kept deleting it. PC Tools technicians verified that this behavior is caused by some of the new heuristic detection methods. I didn't hit any other false positives, but this one left me wary. I mean, it's just a text file! On several systems the main Spyware Doctor screen got stuck in a "checking status" mode at start-up and didn't recover for 5 minutes or more. The experts at PC Tools know why this happened and they say it'll be fixed very shortly.
I like the way all of the OnGuard modules now report their actions in a single History list. I like the fact that Smart Update works without any user intervention. The list of quarantined malware items is now much more informative than in the past, offering as much detail as the scan results page and more. There's a lot to like in this update. The problem is, as many users in the Spyware Doctor forums are commenting, it seems the company released it before it was entirely ready. For blocking and removal of spyware it's slightly better than SD4, but it's not as strong against commercial keyloggers. And my tests with modified malware installers suggest it may not do as well against new and unknown threats. Spyware Doctor 5.0 is still a good choice if you're currently without protection (shame on you!), but if you're using 4.0 you may want to wait for 5.1 before you upgrade. If you don't have any protection at all (shame on you!) and you can't wait for version 5.1, you ought to check out Spy Sweeper 5.2 with AntiVirus.
PC Tools developed the antivirus component entirely in-house. West Coast Labs has already awarded it Checkmark certification for virus detection and removal; ICSA Labs hasn't finished testing it yet. And it will be included in the next round of testing by Virus Bulletin. The virus and spyware scans are completely integrated, so the biggest difference you'll notice is the much longer time required for a full scan. On my standard clean system, a full scan with all options enabled needed 1 hour 15 minutes. That's not what I'd call supercharged. The faster but less-comprehensive IntelliScan component ran in about 15 minutes. Spyware Doctor 4.0 scanned the same system in 7 minutes! Of course, it wasn't trying to scan for viruses too. A better comparison would be Spy Sweeper 5.2 with Anti-Virus at just under 25 minutes or Norton Internet Security 2007 at a bit under 30 minutes. [Note: Representatives from PC Tools were surprised at my report of Intelli-Scan taking 15 minutes. Their tests showed it running in one to two minutes, though they did identify a situation in which turning AV settings to their highest could slow the scan way down. Naturally, they plan to fix that problem ASAP. And in fact, it turned out I had accidentally cranked up the AV settings on my clean test system. When I re-tested with the default settings, Intelli-Scan ran in under two minutes. It really did take fifteen minutes on the malware-infested systems; that didn't change. –njr]
Though I didn't actually measure performance before and after installation, I got the distinct impression that SD5 slowed down my test systems, especially the malware-infested ones. Launching programs from the desktop seemed to take extra long, and IE7 in particular loaded slowly. Of course, these virtual machines have significantly less memory and hard drive space than your average computer, so any performance hits will be exaggerated.
As always, Spyware Doctor employs many layers of security to keep your system free of malicious software. The first line of defense is Site Guard, which blocks access to malicious sites. Site Guard isn't browser-specific—in fact, it blocks access to bad sites even if the program trying to connect isn't a browser. Site Guard would have prevented me from downloading over half of my malware samples, about the same as Spy Sweeper's equivalent Internet Protection Shield. It also derailed the installation of several samples that require Web access for full installation.
There are a bunch of other "OnGuard" layers, too. The new E-mail Guard scans incoming and outgoing mail attachments for spyware and viruses. Startup Guard, Browser Guard and Network Guard block malicious changes to the start-up sequence, your browser, and network settings, respectively. Process Guard halts malicious processes, File Guard prevents access to known malware files, and Keylogger Guard stops keyloggers based on behavior. Taken all together this layered protection should keep out most malware. However, in testing it seemed to me that not all the OnGuard modules were pulling their weight. Process Guard and Keylogger Guard in particular didn't seem to be giving a 100 percent effort to the team, as I found during testing.—Next: Can the Doctor Cure My Ills?
Can the Doctor Cure My Ills?
I installed SD5 with AV on a clean system and let it get all available updates. Then I threw nineteen malware samples at it, including adware, spyware, Trojan horses, and rogue antispyware products. Impressively, it wiped out fifteen of the malware installers the moment I clicked on them, completely preventing any whiff of installation. The other four managed to launch, but SD5 didn't let them finish installing their malicious payloads. Wow! That's better than SD4 did, and in fact better than any other product tested with this same collection. However, it didn't hold up against my commercial keylogger samples. Where SD4 detected all eight samples and prevented installation of all but one, SD5 detected only seven and didn't completely block one of those. That's not a huge difference, but I expected as good or better performance.
Because SD5 blocked so very many of the spyware samples by whacking their installers on sight, I challenged it with a set of twenty modified samples. In each case I renamed the file and changed a few nonexecutable bytes using a byte-level editor. Here's where the OnGuard modules seemed to be asleep at the switch. SD5 still blocked eight of the modified samples from installing, but completely missed six others, including a rather nasty Trojan. As for the remaining six, it popped up warning after warning about this or that malicious behavior but didn't actually manage to keep the malware from installing. In a similar test with modified samples, NIS 2007 and Spy Sweeper 5.2 both did much better.
As usual, I tested SD5's ability to clean up existing problems by installing it on eight malware-infested systems and running its full scan, including the optional rootkit scan. One system put on a veritable fireworks display during SD5's installation, popping up dozens of messages about errors in different areas. The installation finally completed, but the program itself crashed every time I launched it. Fortunately, rebooting in Safe Mode and running a scan there solved that problem—good save!
The full scans were taking well over an hour per system, so after a few of those I switched to Intelli-Scan. This more focused scan finished in about 15 minutes and detected all of the preinstalled malware. However, several of the threats required a full scan for complete removal, so I didn't really save time. That doesn't worry me; if my antispyware reported that it detected a serious problem I would definitely scan again with every possible detection method turned on.
In the end, SD5 detected every single one of the nineteen spyware samples and successfully removed all but two. It left behind significant executable files for those other two, though they may not have been able to function at their full nasty efficiency. That's pretty good, but in an equivalent test SD4 successfully removed all but one—a different one! Here's more evidence that this really is a brand-new product. Like its predecessor, SD5 detected seven of the eight commercial keyloggers. But whereas SD4 fully removed the seven it recognized, SD5 left one crippled but running and left the rootkit portion of another still hiding.
I ran into some other oddities while testing. I have a simple text file listing my malware samples by name along with their associated files and Registry keys. SD5's full scan insisted that this file was actually a part of the SurfSideKick malware and kept deleting it. PC Tools technicians verified that this behavior is caused by some of the new heuristic detection methods. I didn't hit any other false positives, but this one left me wary. I mean, it's just a text file! On several systems the main Spyware Doctor screen got stuck in a "checking status" mode at start-up and didn't recover for 5 minutes or more. The experts at PC Tools know why this happened and they say it'll be fixed very shortly.
I like the way all of the OnGuard modules now report their actions in a single History list. I like the fact that Smart Update works without any user intervention. The list of quarantined malware items is now much more informative than in the past, offering as much detail as the scan results page and more. There's a lot to like in this update. The problem is, as many users in the Spyware Doctor forums are commenting, it seems the company released it before it was entirely ready. For blocking and removal of spyware it's slightly better than SD4, but it's not as strong against commercial keyloggers. And my tests with modified malware installers suggest it may not do as well against new and unknown threats. Spyware Doctor 5.0 is still a good choice if you're currently without protection (shame on you!), but if you're using 4.0 you may want to wait for 5.1 before you upgrade. If you don't have any protection at all (shame on you!) and you can't wait for version 5.1, you ought to check out Spy Sweeper 5.2 with AntiVirus.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Stop Viruses for Free
Avira AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic 7
I am not going to hide myself from the truth, but plainly admit it: Avira AntiVir is my favorite, but that doesn't mean it's the best one here. After all, everything is a matter of personal taste...and despite the large number of computer magazines and sites, there's no 100% fair test; basically, that's the reason I won't have a winner today.
Before getting to know Avira AntiVirus, I used to close my antivirus each time I needed my computer to work as fast as it could, but now things have changed. There's not much to say about this program, but there are three things that should be mentioned for each one here today - interface, features and limitations, because each of these antiviruses has a commercial version too.
AntiVir has a nice tabbed interface that contains six tabs, each one being dedicated to a certain task. These areas are Status, Scanner, Guard, Quarantine, Scheduler and Reports. The Configuration screen has two possible layouts, the basic default one and an Expert mode that allows you to play with the advanced program options.
This antivirus is very easy to use and it won't tie a cannonball to your computer's foot when real time monitoring is enabled. The PersonalEdition Classic doesn't have the MailGuard module that can protect you from malitious emails and each day a window that suggests purchasing the Premium edition opens. Even more, the Premium edition gives you access to an exclusive updates server, being also able to detect adware and spyware, besides viruses. Anyway, the free version is a good choice, and I advise you to give it a try!
Avast! Home Edition 4.7
My last client today is Avast! Home Edition, this one being slightly different from its companions. The differences can be found only using each one of them to face your computer's hardware, software and your personal preferences, but I can only hope that I am helpful enough to give you at least a first glance on these programs.
Perhaps the greatest difference between Avast AntiVirus and most antiviruses around is its interface. While most antiviruses look good or very good, in the best cases, this one is a true eye candy. Avast! Home Edition has a skinnable interface, but you'll probably wonder as much as I did what's the catch with the "Enhanced User Interface"...and unfortunately there's only one way to find out the answer: buy the commercial version. Anyway, what we have here is good enough to get us started, so let's dig in deeper, using the szc-kde interface.
On the features side, this program also comes with useful and special tools that we didn't see here today, like the Network Shield that can protect you from worms attacks, and the Web Shield, designed to keep away any evil lurking in Web pages from your computer. At last, we have protection from threats hidden inside email messages, to offer complete protection.
This is only the top of the Avast! pyramid, and I can guarantee you it's a pleasure to visit it. I don't know about you, but I won't get to Egypt anytime soon, so Avast! Home Edition can be an excellent way to entertain yourselves while staying safe. Enjoy it!
Before getting to know Avira AntiVirus, I used to close my antivirus each time I needed my computer to work as fast as it could, but now things have changed. There's not much to say about this program, but there are three things that should be mentioned for each one here today - interface, features and limitations, because each of these antiviruses has a commercial version too.
AntiVir has a nice tabbed interface that contains six tabs, each one being dedicated to a certain task. These areas are Status, Scanner, Guard, Quarantine, Scheduler and Reports. The Configuration screen has two possible layouts, the basic default one and an Expert mode that allows you to play with the advanced program options.
This antivirus is very easy to use and it won't tie a cannonball to your computer's foot when real time monitoring is enabled. The PersonalEdition Classic doesn't have the MailGuard module that can protect you from malitious emails and each day a window that suggests purchasing the Premium edition opens. Even more, the Premium edition gives you access to an exclusive updates server, being also able to detect adware and spyware, besides viruses. Anyway, the free version is a good choice, and I advise you to give it a try!
Avast! Home Edition 4.7
Perhaps the greatest difference between Avast AntiVirus and most antiviruses around is its interface. While most antiviruses look good or very good, in the best cases, this one is a true eye candy. Avast! Home Edition has a skinnable interface, but you'll probably wonder as much as I did what's the catch with the "Enhanced User Interface"...and unfortunately there's only one way to find out the answer: buy the commercial version. Anyway, what we have here is good enough to get us started, so let's dig in deeper, using the szc-kde interface.
On the features side, this program also comes with useful and special tools that we didn't see here today, like the Network Shield that can protect you from worms attacks, and the Web Shield, designed to keep away any evil lurking in Web pages from your computer. At last, we have protection from threats hidden inside email messages, to offer complete protection.
This is only the top of the Avast! pyramid, and I can guarantee you it's a pleasure to visit it. I don't know about you, but I won't get to Egypt anytime soon, so Avast! Home Edition can be an excellent way to entertain yourselves while staying safe. Enjoy it!
Norton Antivirus 2007
Discussion about the new Norton Antivirus 2007 software. Is the 2007 version an improvement over previous versions? Has Symantec finally fixed lingering problems such as its unfavourable notoriety of being a resource hog? Read on!
The Norton brand is probably the most synonymous brand when it comes to virus protection software. Norton Antivirus has been in existence since 1990, and since then a growing number of people have come to rely on the Norton name to protect their computers from virus attacks. In fact, Norton Antivirus is considered the most widely used antivirus software in the world today. Over the years, Norton Antivirus has constantly underwent upgrades as a means of trying to improve on its ability to detect a growing number of viruses that are being spread. Additionally, each generation of the software incorporates several new features and services as a way of making it more effective in its task of detecting and eliminating (or quarantining) viruses as well as turning it into a more robust application. For example, in recent years, Norton Antivirus has begun to incorporate the detection not only of viruses but also of Trojan horses, spyware and worms as a direct response to the growing proliferation of these potentially harmful pieces of malware. With the release of Norton Antivirus 2007, users should expect to see another set of new features that will help it remain the top of its class when it comes to virus protection. One of the biggest changes in the 2007 version over the previous 2006 version is the decision of the Norton Antivirus team to rewrite much of the code for the application. The result of this overhaul is a faster and lighter version of the antivirus software. Rewriting the code also meant that the interface was streamlined as well. Unlike the previous version, where each task appeared in a separate desktop window, the 2007 version wisely uses tabs inside just one window, which makes it much easier to manage. Under the hood, Norton Antivirus also benefited from the code rewrite. For instance, the virus scan and the spyware scan now run simultaneously, which drastically cuts down on scanning time. Norton Antivirus 2007 also incorporates many of the functions of Norton Personal Firewall, which means the application can now also double as a “light” firewall. Another very important feature of the new version of Norton Antivirus is the incorporation of enterprise level anti rootkit functions. This powerful level of protection against rootkits is well worth the price of the software especially with the growing prevalence of rootkit based attacks on computers. Overall Norton Antivirus 2007 is still arguably the best antivirus protection one can get, and the new version was definitely worth the wait unlike previous versions which disappointed.
AntiVirus Protection Advice to Internet Users
Virus has been a great threat to internet users. Protecting yourself from this destructive program is a basic necessity for internet users even if you are just checking your e-mail.
You cannot avoid viruses because sooner or later you will have one. What's important is that have the knowledge about viruses and how to use Anti Virus protection.
You can take precautionary measures to protect your computer. Also, you will know what to do if your computer got infected with a virus. Allow me to give you some advice about having Anti Virus Protection.
Educate yourself about Viruses.
Having basic knowledge about viruses would help you in easily solving the problems brought about by a virus. This way you know the ways you can get a virus, signs of having a virus, different types of viruses, what it does to your computer and how it can damage your files.
Be careful when online.
They say that prevention is better than cure. Although, the chances of getting a virus is very high, it is still suggested that you are careful when surfing websites, downloading files from email or web and installing programs.
Some programs may look very attractive but they can be dangerous to your computer. Taking precautionary measures will result into minimal chances of your computer being infected with a Virus.
Make a smart decision.
There are Anti Virus softwares which you can download for free such as AVG, Panda etc. But there are also some which you need to buy before you can use them. Compare their advantages and disadvantages.
You may be getting a free anti virus protection but it does not satisfy your needs. Or you may decide purchasing one but you are on a tight budget.
Think of what you need from an anti virus protection, get information on the prospect software, make a comparison and then decide which one to download or purchase.
Know your Anti Virus Protection.
Once you have installed an Anti Virus program, ensure that you know the basic information regarding the software. Read the manual or user guide as a starter.
Then use the internet to look for other helpful information about the anti virus protection.
Furthermore, you can seek assistance from the Customer Service of the software provider if available.
Regularly Perform Virus Scan.
Depending on your anti virus settings, you can do a quick scan everyday just to ensure that your computer is clean from any viruses. A full scan is not recommended as an everyday online habit specifically if you do a lot of things when online.
A full scan is very slow because it will check all the files on your computer. While a quick scan will just check the important sectors on your computer.
Always update your Anti Virus Protection.
Everyday, a new virus is being introduced. Thus, it is important that your anti virus software is updated so that it can detect and repair the newest virus.
Some anti virus programs have automatic update functionality. This means that every time you have internet connection, your anti virus program will be updated. But if yours does not have that setting, then you may need to run an update regularly.
There is no need to worry too much about viruses because there are just some things you need to know and do to ensure that your computer is safe and secure. Have enough knowledge about viruses and anti virus protection to have a safer online experience.
About the Author
Dave Poon is an accomplished writer who specializes in the latest in Internet Safety. For more information regarding Anti Virus Protection please drop by at http://www.bye-bye-spam.com/
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