Internet Security Systems Too Strict?
from the loosen-up-a-bit dept
The common complaint that we hear is that people aren't careful enough with computer security. However, are we reaching a point where security programs are erring on the side of being way too cautious? People are getting increasingly upset that security programs are blocking way too much that's legitimate. Personally, I keep having problems with some anti-malware software deleting my backup software. Part of the problem, of course, is that these products don't do a very good job of giving context. They don't explain things very well, and many users either just go with the default or if they're getting annoyed, just disable the software. That doesn't make anyone any safer.
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Pop up......
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So not only is security softwar4e "too secure", but it is also "too invasive" and many times slows down the computer at inappropriate times.... like when Im busy using the computer for production.
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Software is still dumb
When your guardian is dumb as sticks, he'll either filter out many legitimate programs when strict, or miss too many malware when not that strict.
Thing is, do you prefer to be safe at all costs, or you don't care your banks login being exposed around the Internet for example.
From personal experience you think it's overly strict only until it bites you. After it bites you, you'd gladly give up most of the extras to keep your PC safe.
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Use Linux
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Re: Use Linux
It's really not that hard to secure your Windows PC... The first thing I do after installing WinXP is run Lite PC (or XP Lite) to remove all the crap that compromises either my safety or my comfort. First to go is always the "Security Center" garbage, followed by Outlook, Messenger, and MSN Explorer. Then I load AdAware, MS AntiSpyware, FireFox, and my AV of choice. I have not had a single virus, trojan, or any other malware for over 5 years... Just follow the simple rule of "Don't install/click/open/download every piece of crap that pops up."
In short, I compute smart so that I can ignore the elitist linux fanboys that fail to realise that *nix is not for everyone.
/me steps down from his soapbox.
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Re: Use Linux
Now don't get me wrong, I love Linux; it's actually on my secondary computer (Kubuntu) which I use daily, but my primary system is WindowsXP Pro due to the games and other software I use.
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Isn't too secure
Security is a very large issue. As soon as you remove tools that warn you of potentially harmful issues you are going to get burned.
I've had no luck with McAfee or Norton (really slow and eat up system resources). I personally don't run a virus scanner at home as that box isn't important to me and gets formated weekly (thanks to messing around with certain tasks and such).
At work I run a Trend Micro prodcut called PCcillin (http://www.digitalriver.com/v2.0-img/operations/trendmic/multi/index.htm)
All of our desktops run this and we have no issues.
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Use computer sense
- Stop using IE, flat out, except for MS Updates
- Use webmail; gmail ownz webmail
- Don't open unknown attachments/files; no duh!
- Block incoming ports; router works well for this or firewall.
Ones you can't stop are things like virus applets in which you'll have to use anti-virus software for.
I run avast! and have no problems. It uses FAR less resources than Nortons or a few other choice anti-v software ever did. I run spyware/adware scans every few months and never find anything. I keep an eye on my computer's activity and when things get supicious, I dig deeper using Hijackthis and Process Explorer.
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Best antivirus
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