Q-Z
Scareware
Scareware is a type of malware that generates pop-ups resembling Windows system messages, pretending to be antivirus or antispyware software, a firewall application or a registry cleaner. The messages usually trick users into believing that their computer has a a large number of infected files. The user is then advised to purchase software to fix the problems. However, in reality the problems do not exist and the recommended software download is likely to contain real malware.
Search engine
A search engine is a tool that helps you to search for information online. The information may consist of web pages, images, information and other types of files. A few of the most popular are Google, Yahoo and Microsoft Bing.
Secure Socket Layer (SSL)
'SSL' is a method of coding that enables private communication between a web browser and a web server. Many web sites use 'SSL' to ensure customer information, such as banking details, is kept secure. Normally you will not be aware of 'SSL' as it works automatically when you access a secure web site. You can tell if you’re accessing a secure web site by checking the address bar along the top of your screen to ensure the address begins with ‘https’. If you are using Internet Explorer, you should see an icon that looks like a closed padlock at the bottom right-hand side of your screen. This padlock indicates you are in a secure session.
Shoulder surfing
Shoulder surfing is a term used for anyone observing what you are doing on a computer or ATM. Beware of anyone standing or sitting closely behind you who may try to watch you when you enter personal details.
Site certificate
Site certificates form an essential part of providing reassurance that the site you are visiting is genuine. A site certificate shows you that a secure connection has been established and secure communication can take place. It will also demonstrate that you are not being tricked to enter your details on a fraudulent website.
Social engineering
Social engineering is the act of manipulating people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. All social engineering techniques are based on the way people make decisions. One of there techniques is called phishing.
Social networking
Online social networking is the use of sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Friends Reunited to interact, display photos and share information about our lives.
Spam
Spam is unsolicited and unwanted email.
'Spoof' websites
'Spoof' websites are fraudulent websites designed to look like legitimate ones. Email or ‘phishing’ scams asking people to update their details will often contain links to ‘spoof’ websites. If people enter their personal or security details on a fraudulent website, fraudsters can then use these details to access that person’s accounts.
While we may email you from time to time, we will never send you emails with attachments, or ask you for your Internet banking information or direct you to log on to Internet banking.
If you receive an email from an unknown source, or an email that contains unknown attachments or links, do not open the attachments or click on the links. Instead, please forward the email to security@halifax.co.uk and then delete it from your inbox without responding.
SpyWare
Spyware is hidden software that secretly gathers information on your activity and personal information, passing it to a third party.
Virus
A virus is a software programme that can reproduce itself and often carries harmful malware that could do harm to files and programmes on your computer. Viruses can be used to track what you do on your computer and allow unauthorised and potentially malicious access to your personal computer. Popular anti-virus software such as Zone Labs’ ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite, McAfee Virus Scan, Norton AntiVirus, or Sophos Anti-Virus can help protect your computer from the latest viruses.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is the ability to connect a computer or other device to the internet without the use of a cable. If a device is Wi-Fi enabled then it can connect to the internet from a wireless network. Many cities now have Wireless Hotspots, where members of the public can connect to the internet for free using their Wi-Fi enabled devices such as mobile phones or laptops.
Worm
A worm is a harmful programme that travels across a network of computers. It may cause damage to the computers on the network and affect computer performance. Popular anti-virus software such as Zone Labs’ ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite, McAfee Virus Scan, Norton AntiVirus, or Sophos Anti-Virus can help protect your computer from the latest threats.