Online Safety Flashcards
Memorize the different types of online dangers, how they work and how to avoid them
What is online safety?
Taking precautions to stay safe while using the internet.
What are the different types of online dangers?
- Malware
- Phishing
- Unsavoury characters
- Cyberbullying
What is Malware short for?
Malicious software
What is Malware?
The programs that install and run on your computer without your knowledge or consent.
How do computers get infected by malware?
Malware is often downloaded from email attachments or websites that are not properly protected. Some websites are also designed to trick you into downloading and installing malware.
What happens once the malware is installed?
Malware usually (but not always) causes harm to the computer or user by deleting data or gaining access to personal information.
What are the types of malware?
- Viruses
- Spyware
- Zombies
- Trojans
(5. Rootkits - Worms
- Crimeware
- Adware)
What is a virus?
A type of malware designed to copy itself and spread to other computers via email attachments sent from the infected computer.
What is spyware?
A type of malware that spies on user’s activities, usually to steal financial details and passwords.
How to rid a computer of malware?
- Anti-virus software
- Firewall
- Showing caution
How to show caution to avoid malware?
- Not opening emails from senders we do not recognise and delete such emails.
- Not installing programs downloaded illegally using file-sharing tools and websites containing malware.
How does an anti-virus software work?
It scans the computer for known malware. If it finds malware, it safely removes it.
How to keep anti-virus software effective?
The software must be regularly updated so recognises and removes as many forms of malware as possible.
What is a firewall?
A firewall is a piece of hardware or software that monitors communications coming in from and going out to the internet.
How do firewalls work?
It looks for unauthorised communications from malware. Any such connections are blocked by the firewall, preventing the malware from completing its task.
