Glossary

Anti-virus software

Anti-virus software can detect and delete viruses that attempt to get on to your computer. Anti-virus software is only as effective as the last update so you must keep it up to date and download the latest anti-virus software and signatures regularly from your supplier. Anti-virus software can help to protect your computer from the latest viruses. There are several providers in the marketplace for you to choose from.

Cookies

A cookie is information that a web site places on your hard disk so that it can remember something about you at a later time. Typically, a cookie records your preferences when using a particular site. Most browsers automatically accept cookies. You can set your browser options so that you will not receive cookies and you can also delete existing cookies from your browser. You may find that some websites will not function properly if you refuse cookies.

Encryption

Encryption is the conversion of data into a coded form that cannot be understood by unauthorised people. Decryption is the process of converting coded data back into its original form, so it can be understood by an authorised person or company.

Firewall

A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that provides a barrier between your computer and the Internet. A firewall will prevent intruders or ‘hackers” from gaining access to your computer and should be updated regularly. Firewall software can help to protect your computer. There are several providers in the marketplace for you to choose from. The Get Safe Online website contains articles and actions that can be taken to ensure safe use of the internet.

Hacker

A hacker is a person who uses a computer to break into other computer systems in order to steal, change or destroy information.

Identity theft

Identity theft is when someone else steals your personal information without your knowledge. They may then use your details to commit fraud. For more information on Identity theft visit www.stop-idfraud.co.uk

Keylogger

A keylogger program is a virus that can record the keys pressed on your keyboard while you are using your computer. Anti-virus software can help protect your computer from the latest keylogging programs.

'Patches' or security updates

'Patches', or security updates, are issued by software manufacturers when security vulnerabilities are found in their software. Patches are to fix vulnerabilities. You can download them via the Internet and we recommended that you keep your computer safe by regularly applying any security patches.

Pharming

'Pharming' is when a fraudster, a ‘Pharmer” in this case, creates false websites in the hope that people will visit their websites by mistake. Sometimes you may visit false websites through mistyping a website address, or occasionally a fraudster will try to attack a website and redirect its internet traffic to their own websites. The ‘Pharmer” will then try to obtain your personal details when you enter them into a false website. Such websites may look very realistic, but subtle differences between them and the real thing can be seen. Always make sure the website is secure – look for a closed padlock symbol in the browser window and 'https' in the browser address bar.

Phishing

Phishing scams are emails that may appear to be real, but they ask you to enter personal information or they have links to websites that may look like ones you may use but are in fact 'spoof' web sites. When you click on a link or enter your personal details, the information is sent to someone other than your bank or other service providers.

Secure Socket Layer (SSL)

Many web sites use the SSL method of coding to ensure customer information is kept secure – it makes the communication between a web browser and a web server private. Generally SSL works automatically when you access a secure web site. You can tell if you”re accessing a secure web site by checking the address bar along the top of your screen to ensure the address begins with 'https'. If you are using Internet Explorer, you should see an icon that looks like a closed padlock at the bottom right-hand side of your screen. This padlock indicates a secure connection.

Shoulder surfing

Shoulder surfing is a term used for anyone observing what you are doing on a computer. Beware of anyone standing or sitting closely behind you who may try to watch you when you enter personal details.

Site certificate

Site certificates are an essential part of providing reassurance that a site you are visiting is genuine. A site certificate indicates a secure connection has been established and secure communication can take place.

Spam

Spam is unsolicited and unwanted email.

Virus

A virus is a computer programme that can embed itself into other programs on your computer, and may cause damage to your files. Email is a common way to spread viruses, and opening an attachment or link in an unknown email can trigger the spread of the virus onto your computer.

Worm

A worm is a harmful programme that travels across a network of computers. It may cause damage to the computers on the network and affect computer performance.