Rogue security softwareRogue security software is a form of malicious software and internet fraud that misleads users into believing there is a virus on their computer and aims to convince them to pay for a fake malware removal tool that actually installs malware on their computer. It is a form of scareware that manipulates users through fear, and a form of ransomware. Rogue security software has been a serious security threat in desktop computing since 2008.
MalwareMalware (a portmanteau of malicious software) is any software intentionally designed to cause disruption or destruction to a computer, server, client, or computer network, leak private information, gain unauthorized access to information or systems, deprive access to information, or interfere with the user's computer security and privacy without their knowledge.
Firewall (computing)In computing, a firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on configurable security rules. A firewall typically establishes a barrier between a trusted network and an untrusted network, such as the Internet or between several VLANs. Firewalls can be categorized as network-based or host-based. HistoryThe term firewall originally referred to a wall to confine a fire within a line of adjacent buildings.
Microsoft WindowsComputer operating systemOperating systemWindows is a proprietaryoperating system developed by Microsoft. Windows is grouped into families that cater to particular sectors of the computing industry – Windows for personal computers, Windows Server for servers, and Windows IoT for embedded systems.
Social engineering (security)In the context of information security, social engineering is the use of psychological pressure to influence people to perform actions or divulge confidential information. It has also been more broadly defined as "any act that influences a person to take an action that may or may not be in their best interests."Potentially unwanted programA potentially unwanted program (PUP) or potentially unwanted application (PUA) is software that a user may perceive as unwanted or unnecessary. It is used as a subjective tagging criterion by security and parental control products. Such software may use an implementation that can compromise privacy or weaken the computer's security.
SoftwareSoftware (SW) consists of computer programs that instruct the execution of a computer. Software also includes design documents and specifications. The history of software is closely tied to the development of digital computers in the mid-20th century. Early programs were written in the machine language specific to the hardware.
Computer virusA computer virus is a type of malware that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code into those programs. If this replication succeeds, the affected areas are then said to be "infected" with a computer virus, a metaphor derived from biological viruses. Computer viruses generally require a host program. The virus writes its own code into the host program.
RansomwareRansomware is a type of malware that takes the personal data of a victim hostage until a ransom is paid. This does typically, but not necessarily, involve encryption. Difficult-to-trace digital currencies such as paysafecard or Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are commonly used for the ransoms, making tracing and prosecuting the perpetrators difficult.
Anti-Phishing Working GroupThe Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG) is an international consortium focused on providing guidance and collecting data to reduce the risks of fraud and identity theft caused by phishing and related incidents. It was founded in 2003 by a US-based company, Tumbleweed Communications in collaboration with banks, financial institutions, and e-commerce service providers.
Acute stress reactionAcute stress reaction (ASR), also known as psychological shock, mental shock, or simply shock, as well as acute stress disorder (ASD), is a psychological response to a terrifying, traumatic, or surprising experience. The reactions may include but are not limited to intrusive thoughts, dissociation, and reactivity symptoms such as avoidance or hyperarousal. It may be exhibited for days or weeks after the traumatic event.
AnxietyAnxiety is an emotion characterized by an unpleasant state of inner and includes feelings of dread over anticipated events. Anxiety is different from fear in that fear is defined as the emotional response to a present threat, whereas anxiety is the anticipation of a future one. It is often accompanied by nervous behavior such as pacing back and forth, somatic complaints, and rumination.pay-per-installRelated word or term.*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.