Module 5.3 Flashcards

1
Q

what is a virus

A

software written to disrupt the normal functioning of a computer and is loaded without the knowledge/consent of owner

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2
Q

3 ways viruses spread

A
  1. infected attachments sent email
  2. infected files downloaded from internet
  3. infected files stored portable media (flash drive)
    (most often spread when open infected file)
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3
Q

7 signs you have a virus

A
  1. files randomly disappear
  2. computer slows down dramatically
  3. programs stop working properly
  4. free space suddenly reduced
  5. error messages start appearing
  6. computer no longer boots up
  7. anti-virus software reports threat/presence virus
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4
Q

what is anti-virus software

A

computer program scans computer files for presence of virus and eliminates them. detects virus canning computer file and comparing it to its database of virus definitions

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5
Q

what is a virus signature/definition

A

pattern that uniquely identifies virus, need to be updated often and can be downloaded from internet for anti-virus software you have installed

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6
Q

what does an antivirus program do

A
  1. warn you of a virus’ presence or any suspicious activity
  2. automatically deletes a virus it detects
  3. quarantine virus (placed area where it cannot infect the computer)
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7
Q

examples of antivirus

A

Norton’s Antivirus, AVG, Avast, Bit Defender, Kaspersky, McAfee

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8
Q

how to prevent viruses

A
  1. have antivirus software
  2. keep virus definitions updated
  3. set antivirus software update automatically
  4. scan files portable media before use
  5. scan email attachments before opening
  6. set antivirus scan incoming/outgoing emails
  7. not opening emails/running programs from people dont know
  8. avoid pirated siftware
  9. disable autorun feature flash drives
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9
Q

what is a computer worm

A

malware able distribute itself over a network (normally via email) without a person having to run an infected program. Able reproduce itself many times, computer send out many worms

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10
Q

effects of computer worms

A
  1. take up free space
  2. slow your computer down
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11
Q

how to prevent computer worms

A

have updated ant virus software

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12
Q

what is a trojan

A

destructive program disguised as a useful application, often as exe file

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13
Q

what do trojans do

A

delete files on your computer or scan computer personal information and send it to the creator

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14
Q

what is spyware

A

software monitors and tracks way use your computer and sends the information to third parties without knowledge/consent. loaded without knowledge

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15
Q

what is the most dangerous form of spyware and how does it work

A

keylogging, tracks keystrokes to attempt know username and passwords

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16
Q

6 signs computer infected with spyware

A
  1. reported antispyware software
  2. internet activity initiated by user
  3. changes made to internet settings (eg. homepage) but not by user
  4. computer slows down dramatically
  5. user redirected different pages when trying go specific web page
  6. many pop-up windows appear, often advertising/installation requests
17
Q

3 ways prevent spyware

A
  1. install antispyware (often part antivirus)
  2. keep antispyware up to date
  3. ignore pop-up windows
18
Q

what is adware

A

software downloads and bombards you with adverts that pop-up whenever you are connected to the internet

19
Q

what is spam

A

email sent you in form of advertising products that you did not request (electronic junkmail)

20
Q

5 ways prevent spam

A
  1. check if your ISP can block spam
  2. be careful who you give your email to, some websites may ‘sell’ it
  3. never respond to spam
  4. install antispam (often included antivirus)
  5. filter out spam through your email program and send straight to junk mail
21
Q

what is an internet hoax

A

email message or article intended to deceive or defraud other

22
Q

how to prevent scams/hoaxes

A
  1. dont accept information at face value
  2. check source and determine if it is reliable
  3. legitimised by a ‘friend of a friend’ not reliable
  4. delete messages you recognise as a hoax
  5. aware of virus hoaxes encourage you delete files may be crucial for the running of your computer
23
Q

what is phishing

A

attempts from people to con user into giving out personal and confidential information by posing as a legitimate organisation

24
Q

prevention tips for phishing

A
  1. dont respond requests via email, from any source to confirm details
  2. type URLs of bank websites directly (dont click on email link)
  3. check site is secure
25
Q

what is pharming

A

identity theft scam where user’s computer is infiltrated so they automatically redirected to a fake website even if type correct URL for that website, able use any data entered

26
Q

three ways to prevent pharming

A
  1. ensure you have updated antispyware
  2. pay attention if you get a warning about being directed to another site
  3. ensure the site is secure
27
Q

what is email spoofing

A

changing of an email header to make it look like it came from a different source

28
Q

where is email spoofing often used

A

in spam and phishing