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In my web searching for the ideal topic to write a blog about, in recent days the search has seen, at least to me an alarming number of security breaches to not only the average computer user but also to large websites that handle and distribute the personal data of users like you and I.
The cyber thieves are getting more sophisticated in their attacks, and are finding better ways of mining your personal information. I am no security expert, or computer expert and as such would just like to point you in directions which may be helpful in choosing some personal security measures for yourself.
None of the suggestions below are meant to be given as the do all, or even as the best solutions. They are items culled from other blogs which are referenced often.
Protecting your privacy is not a one step process. There are steps beyond a privacy service that you should also take to ensure your privacy. Choosing the correct software is a big piece.
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All recommended applications and utilities are free of charge. Most are open source.
Recommended Cross Platform Programs and Utilities (meaning they work on Windows, MAC, and *nix)
Browser
Firefox
Firefox with NoScript and AdBlockPlus extensions.
Thunderbird with Penelope
(Eudora 8.0)
Thunderbird with Penelope (the Eudora Interface and features). It is Open Source, free, and extremely robust. It also provides the privacy and security you require.
Email encryption
Gnupg
Encrypt your messages and files with the best and highest rated encryption so that only you and your receiver can read, reply, or open. Also digitally sign text to prove it was from you.
Email encryption made easy
Enigmail
Integrates gnupg encryption and signing into Thunderbird, Eudora, Mozilla, and SeaMonkey clients. Automatic encrypt/decrypt/sign/verify e-mail. Eudora 8.07b users should download Enigmail for SeaMonkey 2.0.
Encrypt entire drives.
TrueCrypt
Open Source Disk Encryption. Create virtual encrypted storage containers that can be mounted as a disk, encrypt USB flash drives and other USB devices, and it will even encrypt partition where OS is installed for boot auth prior to launch.
Windows Recommended Utilities
Gnupg Encryption Utilities
GpgOL
Outlook extension to add gnupg to Outlook similar to how Enigmail adds it to Thunderbird/Eudora.
Gpgee
Adds GPG functions to Explorer shell allowing right click to encrypt or sign files.
WinPT
Although no longer being developed this still works to add the ability to to encrypt/decrypt/sign/verify clipboard contents as well as text in open windows. Does work with Windows 7 but you must right click and copy rather than using CTRL-C for it to see text in the clipboard.
Firewall
Comodo
Free firewall, advanced.
Remove deleted files and wipe slack space.
Eraser
Open Source. Far better rated than any of the overly-hyped "eliminators". Free.
Detect and remove spyware.
SpyBot
One of the must have's for spyware detection and removal.
AdAware
The other must have for adware and spyware detection and removal. Free.
Detect and remove viruses.
AVG
A good antivirus free for home use.
Avast
Another good antivirus for home use. Run with AVG.
Microsoft Security Essentials
It gets good reviews and catches things the above two miss, but read below before using.
Note: Microsoft Security Essentials forces membership in MS Spynet, an "online community dedicated to reporting and stopping malware", or rather, everyone else running this. Basic membership in Spynet means reports are sent to MS by MSE. Reports could include a list of running processes, installed programs, and information on the files identified as malware and the action taken. Not very privacy concious, but quite frankly, MS has access to all this anyway, so if you are trying to keep your Windows computer a secret from Microsoft, good luck.
Useful System Utilities
Autoruns
Control everything that is automatically started
Process Monitor
Monitor processes and what they are doing, stack calls, dll calls, network calls, and more
Process Explorer
Explore your currently running processes as well as previously launched processes
TCPView
List all network listening applications
MAC only utilities
We could use suggestions
More Advanced Tools:
Privoxy
Set up your own local filtering proxy to protect your web surfing.
Tor
A connection-based low-latency anonymous communication system that protects TCP streams: web browsing, instant messaging, irc, ssh, etc.
mixweb
Perl based mixmaster mail and usenet web interface. Automatic flood protection, bot detection, feature rich, easy to install. Almost anyone can now add a remailer web interface to their site. Download the tgz file and read mixmaster.cgi for setup information. Free for non-commercial use.
