smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

Computers used by small businesses are attacked every 15 minutes by some form of malicious internet software, while every hour an attack occurs that could render the machines useless, according to research conducted by the BBC.

A so-called honeypot computer was set up as bait by a BBC News website reporter to monitor how frequently the average Windows PC is attacked. Simply being online, without visiting any sites, incited around four malicious attacks every hour.

These range from annoying fake security warnings to viruses, worms and spyware that can cripple the affected computer, turn it into a ‘zombie’ machine that then sends out further viruses across the internet, or monitor all activity that goes on via the machine. Once infected, all other computers on the same network are then vulnerable to the same fate.

These tips from Government-backed online security website www.getsafeonline.org.uk are a good place to start protecting your PC:

Upgrade your operating system
The newest version of any operating system is generally the safest.

Get a firewall
A firewall protects you against bad hackers, some viruses and some spyware. It can also stop your computer being hijacked and used to infect other machines or send spam emails.

Use anti-virus software
Anti-virus software continually scans your computer for viruses. It also checks incoming email and websites for viruses. It is not included in your operating system so you will need to get and install a copy.

Stay up-to-date
You need to update your computer’s operating system (the Windows software which makes it work) as the people who create viruses and other malware are becoming ever more cunning and sophisticated.

Prevent spyware
In most cases a firewall and anti-virus software will not prevent spyware. You need additional software to keep it at bay. Be careful about programs you download and install. Don’t install software from an unknown or untrustworthy source. Be careful about which websites you visit. Are they trusted? Are they reputable? Get an anti-spyware program and keep it up to date

Filter out unwanted 'spam' email
Don’t click on anything in a spam email, even to “unsubscribe.” If possible, don’t even open it. Use a throwaway email address for trivial online registrations. Consider using an email client with a built-in spam filter or buying an add-in spam filter program. Don’t fall for online hoaxes, check suspicious claims on Hoaxbusters.

Back-ups
Make a regular back-up of your important data, store it in a different location and check that it is actually backing up the right data by doing a trial restore from time to time.

Visit www.getsafeonline.org for more detailed advice.

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