Practice computer security, be aware of traps

  • Published
  • By Capt.Victor Ruiz
  • 62nd Communications Squadron Information Systems Flight commander
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Editors note: This is the first in a series of articles highlighting computer security. 

Our network is a powerful system used to deliver critical information and insight to the warfighter all over the globe. The enterprise network supports high level decision making. Locally, we transport critical data daily in support of our operations. 

Our adversaries are lurking and actively seek to deny us the use of this valuable resource. It only takes one user to open the door to malicious logic. Here's a common scenario. A user downloads the file from the web, perhaps a new freeware program or a fancy upgraded multi-media player. It appears benign, but is bundled with executable files and opens a shareware connection allowing personal and government data to be broadcasted to some unknown location on the web. Tag! The computer has just been infected with Spyware! 

Spyware surreptitiously installs itself to your computer. Spyware commonly allows Internet Cookies to be viewed or transmitted to a server accessible to the offender. These cookies easily indicate where you have surfed and how many times. More dangerous Spyware installs a "keystroke" program recording every single keystroke. 

Spyware is growing increasingly malicious and "smarter" in stealing passwords, credit card numbers and other forms of identity theft. Spyware is difficult to detect as it is typically invisible to the user. Once loaded to your computer, it is both costly and difficult to remove. User education and Computer Security (COMPUSEC) is key to protecting our network. Use the following tips to practice good COMPUSEC: 

Use your government computer for "Official Use Only" 

Do not download freeware or shareware 

Do not surf unofficial sites 

On Tuesday nights, leave your computer on (patches are pushed onto your computer) 

Scan removable media for viruses 

For unfamiliar warning prompts, contact your CSA Spyware is just one of the stealthiest means of penetrating our systems. Our network protection is only as strong as our weakest link. It is everyone's responsibility to defend the network as rigorously as we would any other sensitive system. Practicing computer security will protect the network and protect yourself.