Commonly Used Terms

File Extension
The three-letter code at the end of a file name that tells you what kind of file it is. Double extensions are often used to conceal viruses.

Firewall
Software application and/or Hardware, which prevents unauthorized access to your computer from the Internet and prevents unauthorized programs sending information from your computer.

Hackers
A term used to define an individual(s) who attempts to gain unauthorized access to computer systems for the purpose of stealing and/or corrupting data.

Keystroke Loggers
Software that captures the keys pressed on your computer keyboard and sends a log of these to the hacker via the Internet. Used to capture your passwords and often included in Trojans.

Pharming
A hacker's attack which aims to redirect a website's traffic to another, fraudulent website. Pharming can be conducted either by changing the host's file on a victim's computer or by exploiting a vulnerability in DNS server software.

Phishing
The use of 'spoofed' e-mails and fraudulent websites which are designed to trick recipients into divulging personal financial data such as credit card numbers, account usernames and PINs/passwords.

Spyware
Software installed as part of another application which is designed to monitor and report back on activity on a computer. Often installed without the user's knowledge. May also be called scumware, adware or malware.

Trojans
An apparently harmless program that contains malicious code designed to give control of your computer to a hacker. Can be used to record keystrokes (see keystroke logger) and delete files or even view your screen contents.

Viruses
Software disguised as something else that can cause damage to data and systems. Often spread as email attachments or files hidden in disks.

Virus Definition Files
The list of known viruses that anti-virus software searches for on your computer or incoming files and emails. In order for anti-virus software to work effectively it is vital that you should keep your virus definition files as up to date as possible.

Vishing
Short for “Voice Phishing”, criminals gain private personal and financial information. Victims may receive emails or voicemail messages instructing them to call a phone number purporting to belong to a financial institution. They may also receive direct phone calls from fraudsters claiming to be financial institution representatives. The callers often have some information but need additional information in order to conduct fraudulent transactions, for example, they have a credit card number but need the security code.

Worm
Similar to viruses in that they are programs that are often designed to interfere with the computers they infect. They don't attach themselves to files or other programs but spread automatically across networks of computers.