Use of computer security tools for Linux

In Linux you also need computer security tools

Do you need computer security tools to Linux? Even today many people think not. However, it is a very dangerous myth. It is true that Linux has a more efficient permissions system, but that does not mean that it is infallible.

In this article and those that follow, we will explain why Simply choosing a non-Windows operating system does not by itself guarantee immunity from hacker attacks.

Computer security tools for Linux

In the early days it was relatively easy to keep our data and programs safe.. A good antivirus was enough, not downloading files from suspicious locations or opening emails from unknown sources.

However, more and more our computers and mobile devices interact with cloud services. Tasks like word processing, image editing, or even website design, which used to be done locally, are now often done with online applications. Our data, which we are obliged to give to receive medical attention, obtain personal documentation or study and work or manage our savings, are in the hands of third parties whose responsibility in handling our data is something that we are unaware of.

Developing computer applications is a very expensive activity and companies often turn to components from third-party suppliers whose quality control practices are not always adequate.

And let's not forget the components that fail the most in computer systems. I mean those that are located between the back of the chair and the keyboard.

And so far I am only listing human errors. You also have to reckon with computer criminals. A few years ago, the systems of one of the telephone providers in Argentina went down because one of the employees downloaded an infected pdf with activities from a theater festival.

The use of computer security tools gives us the following advantages.

Protection against malicious software

Although it is very common to believe that all malware is a virus, in reality viruses are just one class. One possible classification is:

The terms virus and malware are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Here's a breakdown of the difference between viruses and malware:

  • Viruses: These are programs with malicious purposes with the ability to replicate themselves by inserting their code into other programs or files. From the moment the program is executed or the infected file is opened, the virus spreads, infecting other content, even causing damage to the system. They also come to have the ability to modify or delete files, disrupt system operation, and infiltrate other computers through removable devices or files attached to emails.
  • Malware: This term is a combination of the words software and malicious. It includes various types of malicious software designed to damage computer systems or networks or defraud users. In addition to viruses, the items listed below fall into the category
  • Worms: Share with viruses the ability to self-replicate. The difference is that they do not need a host program to replicate as they do so through vulnerable points in computer networks.
  • Trojans: Also known as Trojan horses, they appear legitimate at first glance, but actually contain malicious code. When executed, they give attackers access to the system.
  • Ransomware: The function of this program is to obtain a ransom payment. To achieve this, it encrypts the victim's system files, who must pay if they want to unlock it.
  • Spyware: This program collects sensitive information about a user or users without their knowledge and transmits it to third parties without consent.
  • Adware: More annoying than malicious, adware displays advertisements by opening multiple pop-up ads. Ad blockers greatly reduced the use of these programs.

In the next article we will continue with the reasons why it is necessary to use computer security tools no matter what our operating system is.


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