Page 12 - DCAP516_COMPUTER_SECURITY

Computer Security

Notes 1.5 Security Policies and Procedures

An information system security policy is a well-defined and documented set of guidelines that
describes how an organization manages and protects its information assets, and how it makes
future decisions about its information system security infrastructure.
Security procedures document precisely how to accomplish a specific task. For example, a policy
may specify that virus checking software is updated on a daily basis, and a procedure will state
exactly how this is to be done — a list of steps.

1.6 Ways to Ensure Computer Security

Computer security is important for all computer users. To protect your computer from viruses,
worms, hacking attempts, and data theft, it is recommended that you follow the guidelines
listed below:

1. Keep Security Updates Current: Both Microsoft and Apple release regular security updates
for their operating systems (Windows and OS X respectively). You should check for security
updates once a week. You can also configure your system to check for updates automatically.
2. Maintain Secure Passwords and Accounts: It is important to create secure passwords (also
known as strong passwords).
A secure password should contain:
(i) Seven or eight characters.
(ii) At least one number or special character (for example, @ $ [ ] + ).
(iii) At least one capital letter.

(iv) At least one lowercase letter.
Make sure to set up unique accounts on your machine for each user.
3. Use Caution with Email Links and Attachments: Scam artists and hackers often send
infected email attachments or links to compromised websites. Make sure your email
program automatically scans all email and attachments to keep your computer safe.
(i) Do not open attachments or click links in email from people you do not know.

(ii) If the attachment looks suspicious, do not open the file. Save it to your computer and
scan it for viruses. Make sure your antivirus software is up to date.
4. Install and Regularly Update Your Antivirus Software.

Task List 10 companies which offer antivirus programs in the Indian market.

Today the market is cluttered with so many antivirus programs (Figure 1.1). A computer
user must install and regularly update the antivirus software to prevent any attack to their
system. This software is necessary to secure your computer against threats from viruses,
worms and Trojans. Most new computers come with an antivirus package preinstalled,
but it up to you to renew the subscription or replace the software before the trial period
ends. Antivirus software is available in subscription and free variations, with many products
having a basic free version and a subscription version. Whatever antivirus software you
have installed should be updated and scanning your computer regularly.

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