Monday 18 July 2011

Think, Pair & Share: Internet and Computer Security

Azrul and I paired up this time around to work on our Assignment 1: Internet and Computer Security. We were given the chance to pick any topic, so we gladly chose this one because I find it rather interesting to share as well as to learn in details.

You can read the entire document here.

Basically, what we did first is to read what are some of the misconceptions held in this topic. One of them is technical terms associated with the Internet & Computer Security. For instance, virus, spam and phishing. Many have not known what exactly differentiates one another. Apart from clearing the confusion, I myself have learned so much about the difference and its ability to damage one's computer. I was only familiar with how virus can copy itself in any programs but not spam and phishing. I only knew spam was another "different" thing than virus. With much further reading from the books in the library, I can finally figured out what are they and the high risk of damage they could cause to computer's system.

The insight I gained from doing this topic is that no matter how efficient and helpful Internet is in today's world, I have to admit that it's not always good. I've been reading and listening on the benefits of Internet, yes, I was one of those who couldn't survive without the Net because I practically living with it. However, there's always a downside to every good thing. Internet is the perfect example. Yes, it's easing our daily life but with considerations of online theft and fraud spreading in the Net is not something I should neglect. As an user, I need to be on guard at all time to make sure that my credentials and identity are well-protected. Malaysia has done a fairly good job by increasing another level of protection for their local online banking. Even so, no one should take this for granted. When I perform online shopping, I always make sure whether or not the website is reliable by checking out their testimonials or feedbacks. This is to ensure that I won't be cheated for their products. Users must be conscious of performing any online transaction with other users so that they won't get scammed for their money. 



On security software, I used to have this pre-conceived notion that as long as it's free and easy to use, then my system will be protected fully. I was really wrong. I find it important that users should buy original security software in order to get their computer protected. Before I bought the original Trend Micro Titanium Security, I was using Avast! to protect my system. It was free and I thought why not. I used it for a couple of months and then, to my horror, my computer wasn't acting very normal. It constantly lagged and up to the point that I upgraded my RAM to 2GB. I came across the original software at a computer shop and I gave it a try. My computer is running normally now and I regretted downloading the free version of the anti-virus software. This is important to make sure your computer runs smoothly.

What I have learned throughout writing this piece on Internet & Computer Security is that users should know what they're doing. Any suspicious-looking advertisers and website redirect can be deemed as attempts to con users into something unavailable. It is not only about security software but how users need to have prior knowledge of how Internet works around the clock. Original software should be obtained for its reliability, not some free downloaded software online. It does not provide maximum protection as original full software.

Of course, I couldn't do this without Ahmad Azrul Afeze.  


B. Ed TESL IPGKS-UKM
IPG Kampus Sarawak
Jalan Bakam 98009
Miri

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