Online dangers

Online dangers

1. The four main dangers of using the internet: Malware (programs that install and run on your computer without your knowledge or consent), phishing (a term used to describe a malicious individual or group of individuals who scam users. They do so by sending e-mails or creating web pages that are designed to collect an individual's online bank, credit card, or other login information), unsavoury characters - when people do unsavoury activities to make money or behave badly in a situation where they think no one can identify them - and cyberbullying, the bullying of another person using the internet, mobile phones and other digital devices.

   • Some malware is designed to copy itself and spread to other computers via email attachments that are sent from the infected computer. This type of malware is known as a virus. Another type of malware spies on users’ activities, usually to steal financial details and passwords. This type of malware is known as spyware. Other types of malware include trojans and zombies.
     • Phishing emails are often quite easy to spot. Although at first glance they may look very much like a genuine email from a company or website, on closer examination they often contain spelling or grammatical errors. Always remember that it is rare that a website will genuinely send you an email asking for your username and password.

2. There are a number of ways to protect against malware: antivirus software firewall showing caution, by not opening emails from senders who we do not recognise, not installing programs downloaded illegally

   • Antivirus software protects the computer from malware such as viruses and spyware. Antivirus software scans the computer for known malware. If it finds malware, it safely removes it. To remain effective, antivirus software must be regularly updated so that it can recognise and remove as many forms of malware as possible.
     • A firewall is either a piece of hardware or software that monitors communications coming in from and going out to the internet. Both forms work on a similar basis. The firewall looks for unauthorised communications from malware. Any such communications are blocked by the firewall, preventing the malware from completing its task.

3. Phishing emails are often quite easy to spot. If in doubt about an email, delete it immediately. Do not follow any links contained in the email. Instead, go to the website directly, and try to log in there.

   • Staying safe from phishing emails

4. Staying safe from unsavoury characters and cyberbullying

   • The easiest way to stay safe online is to stay in control of personal information given out.
     • Never disclose important details such as name, telephone number, address or school. Never accept someone as a ‘friend’ on social media simply because they claim to know another friend of yours. Always be cautious about what you say online.