IT security and control leader, Sophos, today issued a reminder
to personal computer users to take the opportunity this weekend
when installing the daylight saving time update to check that their
anti-virus software and operating system updates offered by
manufacturers have been installed on home computers and
laptops.
"Some users have a tendency to believe that internet security is
the responsibility of the internet service provider or email
service provider. Most users receive an introductory or trial
version of anti-virus software when they purchase a new PC or
laptop," said Ron O'Brien, senior security analyst for Boston-based
Sophos. "In fact, unless you specifically purchase a full version
of the software, you may have no protection if the trial version of
the software has expired," O'Brien adds.
Another area where users should exercise more diligence is in
running updates to anti-virus software. Sophos provides users with
the option of updating their software automatically. Unless you
have selected the automatic update option, you may receive a
reminder to update your anti-virus software. These updates provide
protection against dozens of new threats that appear each day.
Users should also be aware that some types of malware target
vulnerabilities in operating system software. Updates are available
to "patch" these vulnerabilities but a number of users are inclined
to click "remind me later" when presented with the option to run an
operating system update. This weekend would be the ideal time to
check whether all of the available operating system updates have
been installed on your computer.
"Most virus attacks reported by consumers could have been
prevented by updating anti-virus software when asked to do so,"
added O'Brien.
Top 5 tips for computer users:
- Use anti-virus software and ensure that it is kept
up-to-date
- Stay up-to-date with software patches
- Stay informed about the latest virus threats
- Use a personal firewall to stop zero day threats and prevent
intrusion from hackers
- Back up data regularly
Sophos recommends companies protect themselves with a consolidated solution which can control network access and defend
against the threats of spam, hackers, spyware and viruses.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com.