Japan's first cyber attack

Reuters announced that Japan's defense industry sustained their first cyber attack on September 19, 2011.  http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/09/19/mitsubishiheavy-computer-idUSL3E7KJ0BD20110919

Hackers gained access to computers at one or more of its submarine, missile and nuclear power plant factories on August 11 marking the first known cyber attack on Japan's defense industry.  The article states that 80 computers were infected with computer viruses including eight types of Trojan horses.  The plants build missiles, aircraft wings, submarines, components for nuclear power stations and escort ships.  The article suggests a possible reason for the attack being a partnership with Boeing and interest from other countries in the project.

A sad issue for the country of Japan, especially after the recent devastation of the tsunami.

Hacking can't always be prevented, but it makes sense to ensure that anyone using a computer protect the computer to the greatest extend possible.  Several ways to protect your home computer at low or no cost include:

1.  Install a reputable virus protection program on your computer and keep it up-to-date.  Virus protection programs can be purchased for at very low cost during holiday weekends (Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, etc.) using rebates at computer stores.  I like Symantec.  There are also several good free programs such as AVG that offer good protection.

2.  Install a hardware and software firewall.  It is important to install a hardware firewall, also known as a router, on your home network.  A hardware firewall offers first defense against hackers attempting to get into your home computer.  A software firewall enhances your fortress against attack if the hardware firewall is penetrated so a software firewall is also a must.

3.  Malware, spyware and adware are becoming a larger problem.  Malware is malicious software designed to interrupt your computer or network.  Malware includes spyware (such as a keylogger) and adware.     Several anti-virus software programs include spyware detection/removal.  I recommend you use a virus protection program that includes malware/spyware detection and removal.

4.  Update your computer regularly.  Microsoft regularly finds vulnerabilities and provides "patches" to resolve.  Several other programs you may have installed such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, Flash and  JAVA release regular updates.  Many of these programs notify you when updates are available.  Many other programs have a link to update the software in the "Help" or "About" sections.  Update your software.  If you don't run the software anymore, un-install it.

5.  Backup your important data.  You can do this by copying data to CDROM or DVD (least expensive option), purchasing an external hard disk which may cost $100 or less or subscribing to an online service.  If you backup to a home device (CD, DVD or external drive) remember to consider where the backup is stored.  If your machine falls prey to theft or is destroyed by a fire, tornado or other natural disaster you could also lose your backup.  Store it safely in a manner that will provide a good chance that the backup will survive if the machine does not.  

Thanks for following the recommendations listed above.  Everyone who uses the internet is swimming in the same fishbowl.  One infected machine has potential to infect others.  Thanks for doing your part to halt the spread of viruses and malware.