Bay Area IT Management

Where technology experts at Endsight share their expertise on IT Management, the issues that arise for clients, and the benefits of technology for medical practices, biotech firms, law firms, financial services and other small businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Oct 9th, 2009

Beware of Facebook frauds and Google goons | Adventures in IT - InfoWorld

by Jason Clause Filed under: Managed Services, Network Security

Social media and search engine scams are on the rise. Cyberthieves are finding new ways to slip onto your computer and into your pocket. Are you really sure you’re safe?

If any of my Facebook friends get a message from me that reads like this, “I’m in a Turkish prison and need you to wire me $1,000 dollars.”  Please try to call my wife first.  She’ll know what to do. 

Scams and shams are increasing on Google and other popular sites.  The cyber world is a dangerous place where the bad guys can look like good guys.  I encourage you to give this article a good read.  (Read the article by clicking here)

To avoid internet viruses and other traps intended to download malicious software on your machine it’s important to:

1. Implement a centrally managed antivirus solution

2. Create and maintain a patch management strategy
3. Consider internal policies that limit the time employees spend on social sites

4. Consider restricting network / user permissions with regard to software downloads

We’ve baked these countermeasures into our outsourced IT service approach.    If you’re concerned about your exposure to the cyber slime, contact us, and let’s discuss your options.

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