Are You the Weakest Link?

Despite all the high-profile stories of viruses, scams and online security problems, technology really has improved our online security. But has it made our online lives safer? Maybe not, because now people are the weakest link in the security chain.



MP3 File

What's the big deal?

In spite of various technological security measures (anti-spam/virus/phishing) the ultimate security software is your own brain.

Here's a humorous take on this concept:

Some references:

• 52% of respondents to a recent US survey admitted to clicking links in or replying to spam messages
• Even "reputable" Web sites aren't averse to tricking users, as Tagged.com is accused of doing.
• The "UteGate" saga in Australia
• The story unfolds - ABC MediaWatch Ep. 21
• Our previous podcast on phishing (3rd August 2007 - almost two years ago)
• The Phishing and Spam IQ Quiz

Why is phishing still so popular?

• It works!
• Technology is getting smarter, so scammers have to resort to human frailties.
• Things like Twitter and Facebook have made things worse: Many Facebook apps require you to give them access to your data, and Twitter tools often require access to your Twitter account. This has made some people far less careful than they should be with security and privacy.
• URL shortening services don't help, for two reasons: (a) they mask the true URL, so you can't guess if a link is safe to follow; (b) they might lull some into a false sense of security - e.g. people see "bit.ly" and assume it's safe because it has been in the past.

So how should you protect yourself?

• Don't let your guard down! It's as important as ever to be vigilant, careful and just use common sense.
• Use protection but don't allow it to lull you into a false sense of security
• Don't sweat the small stuff - but it's not all small stuff. Be more alert when there's a risk of giving out confidential information (e.g. online banking, unusual e-mails from your boss supposedly asking you to send her Top Secret documents), and relax when there's a lower risk (e.g. your spouse asking you to get milk on the way home).
• Don't get scared off. Immerse yourself more - not less - in the Internet culture, so it becomes familiar to you. You're safer in your home town in familiar surroundings than as a naive tourist wandering through a strange city.