Security and the Internet -

Page 6 of 8

Security and the Internet

5. Remote Access

Once you are connected to the Internet, you need to control remote access to your system.

5.1 Protect yourself from downloading viruses by installing recognised virus-checking software and updating it regularly.

5.2 Configure your browser and email software to maximise security.

Downloaded files should be saved and checked before you open them.
Make sure dialling software automatically connects you to your Internet service provider (ISP). Keep your password secure.
Set up a rigorous control procedure for dial-up connections to other computers. Any computer to which you connect represents a possible security risk.

5.3 Installing additional firewall software will improve security.

Firewall software varies from free to expensive. You will need computer expertise to use and manage it effectively.

The software can be used to:

Make it difficult for unauthorised outsiders to gain access. A firewall is essential if you allow direct access to your system. For example, if you host your own website.
Restrict data flowing into and out of your system. For example, to stop access to unauthorised websites and to control or prevent downloads.
Produce a log of Internet traffic.

5.4 Choose an ISP that offers adequate security. See Internet service providers.

Once you are connected to your ISP, anyone who manages to breach its security might gain access to your system. If your ISP hosts your website, anyone who gets past their security measures may be able to hack into your website.
If you use your website for e-commerce, your ISP must be able to handle secure transmission of information and payments (see 6.2).
A good ISP will have software to minimise the risk of a denial-of-service attack. This occurs when hackers bombard you with high volumes of emails or hits on your website so that your system, or the ISP's, crashes.

5.5 Minimise the risk of confidential information being intercepted by email.

< Prev		Next >