Another PC protection layer

Even firewalls can let in exploit code from malicious (or hacked) web sites. That's where LinkScanner (and its paid subscription brother LinkScanner Pro) from Exploit Prevention Labs (XPL) comes in. LinkScanner checks the results of searches and shows icons that reflect the safety of the site. Hovering your mouse cursor over an icon adds details.

CNET and PC Magazine both have reviews of LinkScanner and the Pro version. As they both advise, it checks well for exploits, but rely on other software to plug the holes in detecting phishing sites. LinkScanner works with FireFox, Internet Explorer, and Opera.

A recent article in USA Today on web page exploit attacks describes some traps that hackers set on a broad range of web sites. LinkScanner appears to be one more layer you should have in your multi-layered defense of your computer.

Internet Security Threat Report

Some key findings in Symantec's Internet Security Threat Report include:

• The major malicious software thrust is stealing your money.
• Over 5,200 Denial of Service (DoS) attacks per day.
• The bad guys are attacking medium-risk vulnerabilities as a way to run more attacks.
• Attackers are increasingly attacking multiple vulnerabilities at once, not just exploiting one vulnerability.

Some key links:

• Symantec Internet Security Threat Report (March, 2007)
• Symantec's Cybercrime stories. Think you're safe? Read these stories.
• Internet Security Threat Report X: Home Users (Podcast)

Microsoft leads patch pack

Symantec has issued its semi-annual report on Internet Security Threat Trends for the last half of 2006. One finding is that Microsoft offers patches for vulnerabilities faster than the other four vendors checked.

In decreasing order of fast response (1 = best, 5 = worst), they are:

1. Microsoft
2. Red Hat
3. HP
4. Apple
5. Sun

Safer Internet Day

Today, February 6, is Safer Internet Day, observed by over 40 countries. This year's focus is on mobile phones and child safety. The European Union (EU) has a special ins@fe site, which features a special worldwide blogathon for Safer Internet Day.

Among U.S. sites, the U.S. Department of Justice sponsors iSafe, with an iLearn section that aims at several groups: teachers, over-50, parents, students, and even law enforcement and prosecutors. The site also contains tips for parents and tips for students. A series of "Dig Deeper" articles seems sure to grow over time. It already includes downloadable PDF format files ranging in topic from Copyright basics to the Perils of Blogging (I'd better read that one).

Other resources:

• The FBI offers a "Parent's Guide to Internet Safety".
• At the NetSmartz Workshop, Dr. Sharon offers advice via several 2+ minutes online videos.
• Online security company McAfee offers an online guide for parents.
• Security company Symantec joins with iKeepSafe.org to present an online video, "10 Common questions about Internet safety."
• Microsoft has a whole "Protect your family" section.
• Google offers "OneKey," the kid-safe search engine use Google and filters.
• Keeping Children Safe Online (US-CERT)
• WiredSafety.org
• Keeping Internet Kids Safe (KIKS)
• Google Directory: Internet/Child Safety
• McGruff: Internet Safety tips and cons for kids
• Panel addresses net threats to kids