Last week, the news was a-buzz with information about the Conficker worm, a nasty computer infection. Although first discovered last fall, it was reported the virus would ramp up efforts to attack PCs April 1. The main goal: cyber crimes.
Unlike many computer viruses, Conficker spreads without any human involvement, moving from PC to PC by exploiting a security hole in Microsoft Corp.'s Windows operating system. The hole was fixed in October, but if a computer doesn't get automatic updates from Microsoft, it could be vulnerable.
While computer viruses are nothing new, their creators are getting much smarter. With information available from so many resources online, it’s hard to make sure your computer doesn’t become a infected.
Because computers, along with management and security software, are such an integral part of a self-storage facility’s day-to-day operations, a virus could translate into lost business, facility break-ins, customer identity theft or even legal action. To be sure you’re protected, check out this article from PCWorld, which details what Conficker is, how it works and how to shield your computers. There's even a simple test to determine if your PC has been infected.
Protecting your computer should be as important as protecting your property. Thieves are no longer regulated to lock-cutters. Today's hackers are smart and savvy. Don't become one of their victims.