Just about anyone that gets online is at risk. Online security threats are one of the biggest challenges on the Internet today. The problem is that the people that want to attack your computer and the computers of the people that you know don't create difficult methods to create problems, instead they focus on common failures that will give them access. When those that get on the Internet know how these attacks take place, these attacks can be lessened and even prevented in most cases.

The best thing you can do if you get on the Internet at all is to use security software and hardware such as firewalls and authentication servers, as this is the most effective way to protect your computer and your personal information. The problem is that every day there are new viruses and security threats that are launched all over the Internet, which means you need programs that can be updated continuously and don't just target one specific type of problem. It's best if you choose hardware and software that will update itself each time you are on the Internet, without you having to remember. It's also very important that you choose your passwords carefully, so that those that might want access to your information won't be able to guess as to what password you might use.

Some of the main online security threats are:

Web servers and services

Many default HTTP web servers expose visitors every time they log on to these websites. You should be sure that you have the patches available that have been released over the last few years and that your computer isn't utilizing a default configuration.

Password Protection

Passwords are undeniably a huge part of your online security. You'll find that almost every website that you visit that deals with online transactions, emailing, and shopping use passwords to verify you are who you say you are. This means that you not only need to choose a password that cannot easily be figured out, but you should also keep it safe and secure and not share it with anyone. Do not use the same password for all of your accounts and attempt to come up with a password that contains letters, numbers, and special characters.

Windows remote access services

Most systems provide methods for remote access, which can be great when you need to access your information from other places, but it means that other people with the right tools might be able to access your information as well. If you use remote access services you should be sure that you are using a good firewall protection service as well as other security software that will help you to prevent unauthorized access by anyone but you and those that you authorize.

File sharing applications

File sharing programs are used by most computer users to share files. Peer to peer file sharing is an easy way to share files between computer users, as it uses a network to link the computers to one another so the information can be shared. The problem is that this allows hackers easy access to search and even download files from any computer on the network. Most experts warn that it simply is not a good idea to use peer-to-peer programs to share files.

Instant messaging

Instant messaging is a common enough means of communication, but it is often used by hackers to attack one's system. Configuring your instant messaging services properly so that you have complete control over any file transfer that can take place through instant messaging can easily prevent this.

Mail client

Many hackers use email as a means to spread devastating viruses and worms by including them as attachments in emails. This can be prevented or limited by configuring your mail server properly so that you can block suspicious attachments or files.

LSAS exposures

Windows local security authority subsystem is a place of vulnerability for most victims. This system has a major buffer overflow that most hackers know how to exploit to take over control of your computer. Proper configuration and use of security patches can help one avoid this safety threat.

Spyware Attacks

Spyware attacks are something that we are probably all familiar with, as they are the most common online security threat faced by Internet users. Spyware is simply a computer program that is designed to steal information from your computer without your knowledge. The software will typically be installed on your computer without you even knowing it, and then it will send your personal information such as documents, passwords, credit card numbers, bank accounts, and many others to another source. Common spyware includes Trojan horses, key loggers, dialers, and adware programs.

Trusted anti spyware programs that are available will help protect your computer from spyware. Do not simply download software that you have never heard of, instead stick with the names that you know. You should also take care to scan all files before they are downloaded.

Online threats are very real, but if you know how you become vulnerable, you'll be able to better protect yourself. You should be able to get online without constantly worrying, and you can!