[OPLIN 4cast] OPLIN 4Cast #146: Your security is our security.

[Bobbi Galvin]

*OPLIN 4Cast #146:
Your security is our security.
*September 30, 2009


  /4casting technologies that could have an impact on public libraries./

You have heard it before, you will hear it again...security, security, 
security.

Day after day we warn users that without good security, 1.) their e-mail 
accounts are dangerously exposed to hackers, 2.) their networks are 
vulnerable to outside attacks and 3.) the OPLIN network can be compromised.

All three of these instances happened this week, causing OPLIN staff to 
scramble to reduce the amount of damage.  *This is a big deal. *

Historically, when someone gets hacked on the OPLIN network, the reason 
for the compromise isn't to steal your identity or use your computer to 
tap into some top-secret government agency.   We get hacked because 
someone wants to steal an e-mail account for sending out spam.

Thousands of people are impacted when one user e-mail ID is compromised 
or one library server isn't protected.  OPLIN IPs get blocked by folks 
like Google, Yahoo! and Time-Warner, and it takes time to get removed 
from their blocked lists.  In the mean time, all OPLIN mail is 
backlogged and we block your offending IP as per the OPLIN Good Neighbor 
policy <http://www.oplin.org/content/oplin-community-good-neighbor-policy>.

This week, the security breeches could have been easily averted.  Do not 
assume that someone else is taking care of your computer and e-mail 
security.  Ask!  Make sure you are receiving at least weekly Microsoft 
updates and daily anti-virus updates. Use a strong password on your 
e-mail account.  Be proactive and when possible, take personal 
responsibility for your machine.

Here are some articles about the severity of malware and ways to protect 
your account and the OPLIN network.

    * Malware worldwide grows 15 percent in September.
      <http://news.cnet.com/8301-1009_3-10363373-83.html>
    * IT security breaches soar in 2009
      <http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/it-security-breaches-soar-in-2009/article1305011/>
    * Secure Password Generator <http://www.pctools.com/guides/password/>
    * The Password Meter <http://www.passwordmeter.com/>

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-- 
Bobbi Galvin
OPLIN Customer Relations & Support
P: 1-888-966-7546
www.oplin.org

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