5/26/11

What is a Service Pack?

Often abbreviated as SP, a service pack is a collection of updates and fixes, called
patches, for an operating system or a software program. Many of these patches are often released before the larger service pack, but the service pack allows for an easy, single installation. Service packs also often include new features in addition to fixes.

A SP is a collection of updates in one large file. Installing a service pack fixes many issues in one download. It also makes changes to the operating system.

5/25/11

Allow a program to communicate through Windows Firewall

  1. Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking Security, and then clicking Windows Firewall.
  2. In the left pane, click Allow a program through Windows Firewall. Administrator permission required If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
  3. Select the check box next to the program you want to allow, and then click OK.

5/22/11

What is Phishing?

Phishing is an attempt by an individual or group to solicit personal information from unsuspecting users by employing social engineering techniques. Phishing emails are crafted to appear as if they have been sent from a legitimate organization or known individual. These emails often attempt to entice users to click on a link that will take the user to a fraudulent web site that appears legitimate. The user then may be asked to provide personal information such as account usernames and passwords that can further expose them to future compromises. Additionally, these fraudulent web sites may contain malicious code.

You can report phishing by sending an email to phishing-report@us-cert.gov.