5 Rules
for Using the Internet
after 'Heartbleed'
by Priya Anand
You know the lock icon that pops up next to URLs to tell you a website will keep your information safe? It turns out it has actually left your private data unsecured for more than two years.
 |
|
THE ULTIMATE WEB NIGHTMARE
It's easy to want to think the reaction to the Heartbleed OpenSSL vulnerability is overblown. Sadly, it is not. Heartbleed is bad. It's not hyperbole.
|
Websites encrypt your information, like emails, passwords and credit card numbers, so if anyone tries to snoop, they get a gibberish code and your data stays between you and the people you want to send it to. At least that's the way it's supposed to work. This week, researchers found a hole in OpenSSL, the lock that an estimated two-thirds of websites use. They're calling the bug "Heartbleed." What's more, any attacks let in due to the bug can't be traced, experts say. This is a gaping security hole with "epic repercussions," director of security firm AlienVault Labs Jaime Blasco says, even if you're starting to become numb to all the data breaches of late.
Here are 5 rules for using the Internet after Heartbleed.
See also related videos below.
Keep Windows XP Secure
After April 8th Support Deadline
April 8 marks the end of Microsoft's support for Windows XP; an operating system that's still very popular and widely used. After that deadline, Windows XP will no longer be patched, but that doesn't mean it can't be used safely. Here are some things you can do to keep Windows XP secure:
- Install Windows XP's final update.
- Use Windows XP as a "limited user."
By default, user accounts in Windows are "administrator," meaning the user can install programs and make system changes. Downgrading the account will prevent programs that may be malicious from getting access to the system.
Click here to continue reading other things you can do
to keep Windows XP secure.
 |
CNET News
Tips to protect yourself from Heartbleed
|
