Travelers abroad are at risk for malicious software being installed on their computers through internet networks at hotels, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
In most instances, a pop up window appears and asks the traveler to update a well known computer program. Once clicked, malicious software is installed on the laptop.
The FBI recommends to those traveling abroad that they should take extra precaution before updating their computer programs. Try and perform program updates before you leave home, instead of from the hotel. If your computer is attacked, contact your local FBI office and report it on IC3.gov.
Learn more about these kinds of malware attacks.
DNS - Domain Name System - is an Internet service that converts user-friendly domain names, such as www.fbi.gov, into numerical addresses that allow computers to talk to each other. Without DNS and the DNS servers operated by Internet service providers, computers would not be able to browse web sites, send e-mail, or connect to any Internet services.
Criminals have infected millions of computers around the world with malware called DNSChanger which allows them to control DNS servers. As a result, the cyber thieves have forced unsuspecting users to visit fraudulent websites and made their computers vulnerable to other kinds of malicious software.
Check your computer’s DNS settings. If you’re a victim of the DNSChanger malware, you can register with the FBI.
Learn about DNSChanger malware and how it can affect your computer. (PDF)
Image description: In January 1984, Apple Inc. introduced a graphic user interface to its new computers. The idea had originated at Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Center in the 1970s, but Xerox was slow to commercialize it. Apple proved far more successful when it introduced the Macintosh with a splashy television advertisement during Super Bowl XVIII. The original price was around $2,500.
Learn more about Apple’s “Classic” Macintosh computer.
Photo from the National Museum of American History
