October 3, 2008
· Filed under Internet · Tagged http://www.fraudguides.com/internet_fraud.asp, www.webopedia.com/TERM/p/phishing.html
What Is Phishing?
The act of sending emails to a user falsely claiming to be an established legitimate enterprise in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information that will be used for identity theft. The email directs the user to visit a Web site where they are asked to update personal information, such as passwords and credit card, social security, and bank account numbers, that the legitimate organization already has. The Web site, however, is bogus and set up only to steal the user’s information.
Some of the banks I visited were Bank of America, Wachovia, DFFCU, and others to determine how they are trying to keep us safe. They basically are trying to keep their clients safe by educating them on the scenarios that could possibly be a scam. On one bank’s website they urge clients to not click on the links presented in email but to manually type the banks website into your browser. They also advise clients to install anti-spy ware, anti-virus, and a personal firewall on your computer to protect you from criminals gaining access to your computer. Banks are definitely updating security to handle this threat by having secure transmissions, encryptions, virus protection and etc. They want you to be very cautious giving your personal information to anyone even them. Several banks have developed email and phone support to report any type of fraud or phishing. Banks also have security features such as automatic sign off, security questions, and response teams that can warn you if anything happens out of the ordinary. After reading about phishing I will definitely changing my habits on the web.
September 25, 2008
· Filed under Internet · Tagged http://compnetworking.about.com/od/dslvscablemodem/a/dslcablecompare.htm, http://www.directglobalcommunications.com/dsl_vs_cable.htm
Who has the better speed?
DSL connection and Cable Modem basically provide the same Mbps speeds. However DSL may become slower the farther you live from the provider’s central office. Cable speed usually depends on Web traffic.
How does DSL and Cable compare with availability and reliability?
They are both reliable and have great performance usually. DSL and Cable are not available in all areas but Cable is available to anyone who can receive cable television which may have an advantage over DSL.
Which has the better price?
DSL is a little more expensive than cable. Cable wins when it comes to the price. Based on installation and monthly service fees, cable is usually a better bet if price is an issue.
Something to help you decide if you should go with Cable or DSL are if you live in an area where both cable and DSL are offered then you may get a better deal on your broadband service. Cable and DSL providers usually provide discounts on bundles packages.
What about Security?
They usually need to purchase antivirus software and a firewall for either internet connection.
Who has better Customer Service and Popularity?
From About.com they find DSL has higher customer survey ratings than cable services. About.com also states cable internet enjoys has greater popularity than DSL in the U.S. DSL dominates the nations outside the U.S.
Who has the better installation process?
DSL has had several horror stories in the past. But now they haven’t definitely stepped up to the plate with self installation. Cable does let you self-install but most people do not know and get stuck with Cable companies installing their internet.
September 19, 2008
· Filed under Software · Tagged Http://www.realtor.org/archives/buyersguideaug07, Http://www.vinnylingham.com/top-20-reasons-why-web-apps-are-superior-to-desktop-apps.html
What is the definition of Web Based Software?
Web based software or online software resides on the software provider’s file servers instead of on your computer hard drive as with traditional software. Web based software is used online via the Internet using a browser like Firefox or Internet Explorer.
Some web based software lets you store data on your own computer, but the majority of online software services store data on secure file servers owned or rented by the software company.
Source:
If I were a Sr. Software programmer I would design my new software program using web based applications. This is definitely a superior choice. Cd’s are a thing of the past. There will be challenges to overcome but my software program will be easier for the users. Businesses will definitely benefit from applications being distributed through a web based software program.
The main reason I chose to design my program using a web based application is all you need is an Internet connection. Utilizing web based software would give you immediate access to your applications and the latest release of the software. Web based applications uses less RAM memory and may be less prone to crashing . Distributing the software would be a easier than attempting to hand CD’s to an entire business group. Cd’s can be damaged or misplaced so having everything web based is easier to manage.
The challenges a web based application faces are lack of control and security to point out a few.
Our toughest challenge may be accepting this new technology.