Hi everyone! I just started going through the first module on Cyber Smart from Connect.ed as part of Week 10 tasks.
Here are some useful terms and definitions that I would like to share:
- Cookies
Cookies – are small files placed on your computer when you visit a website. The website saves a complementary file with a matching identification (ID) tag so it can recognise you by matching the cookie with the website’s copy.
Cookies address the need to keep track of information entered at a site. For example, if you submit a registration form or wish to complete online transactions, the site could match that information to your computer when you visit next time. It is important to note that while cookies can be turned off, they are not dangerous to users, and some websites may not operate correctly without the use of cookies.
Cookies can also be used by some organisations to collect information about your web browsing activities for purposes such as tailoring advertisements you see on web sites you visit.
- Keylogging
Keylogging is the use of either a hardware device installed on a keyboard or spyware software to record every keystroke (the sequence of keys pushed on your keyboard) on the computer. A keylogger records everything the user types in, including emails, log-in names, passwords, credit card numbers and/or bank account websites in order to steal the information.
- Micro-blogging websites
Micro-blogging websites are social networking websites that people can sign up for, and send out regular updates about their daily activities. One of the most popular micro-blogging sites is Twitter.
Users of micro-blogging sites can both share their updates and follow others’.
- Pharming
Pharming is the act of redirecting a website’s traffic to another illegitimate site. Hackers establish these ‘fake sites’ to gain access to personal information, such as bank account details and passwords. Users may be able to avoid pharming by ensuring they use secure web connections to access websites that require personal information, such as your bank’s website.
- Spyware
A computer program that can be installed on personal computers, usually without the permission from the owner, and has the purpose of collecting information and sending it back to another source is spyware. This can often be an internet marketing, pornographic or gambling website. Spyware can also be used maliciously to steal your log-in and passwords for secure websites, such as online banking.
More terms and definitions can be found on – http://www.cybersmart.gov.au/Glossary.aspx
where it all begins 