The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) announced study findings that 71 percent of consumers lack the knowledge on cyber criminals’ weapon of choice and the Internet’s fastest growing threat — botnets. This is sadly telling a story that I and many other computer security professionals already know. Botnets have comprised mostly of consumers’ computers and are increasingly being used to perpetrate identity theft and spread viruses.
“Last June, the FBI identified more than one million computers infected with malware which could have been hijacked and used as part of an army of bots to attack other computers, spread malware, or attack our nation’s infrastructure,” said Ron Teixeira, executive director of the NCSA. These results were announced at the RSA conference last week. “Botnets continue to be an increasing threat to consumers and homeland security. Consumers’ unsecured computers play a major role in helping cyber criminals conduct cyber crimes not only on the victim’s computer, but also against others connected to the Internet.”
The study also shows that Americans are largely unaware their computer’s security plays a role in our nation’s security and preventing online crime. The scary think is a majority of respondents think it is not likely their computer could affect homeland security while only 51 percent think it is possible for a hacker to use their computer to launch cyber attacks.
“It is alarming that consumers do not know how to secure their computers,” said Teixeira. “It is important for consumers to understand that safe cyber security practices not only protect them from identity theft, but also prevent cyber crime and attacks. By taking simple steps, consumers can protect themselves from cyber crimes and join our effort to protect other Internet users.”

Additional findings from the study* include: — 71 percent have never heard the phrase “botnet” — the weapon of choice for cyber criminals — 59 percent think it is not likely their computer could affect homeland security — 47 percent believe it is not possible for a hacker to use your computer to launch cyber attacks or crimes against other people, businesses and our nation — 51 percent have not changed their password in the past year — 48 percent do not know how to protect themselves from cyber criminals — 46 percent of consumers are not sure of what to do if they became a victim of a cyber crime.

I say this to you… your biggest weapon against the criminal attackers is knowledge. Educate yourself on the steps you can take to secure your PC at home.

Congrats to my Kansas University Jayhawks for winning the NCAA National Championship. Gotta love those Hawks! As we like to say around this part of the country, Rock Chalk Jayhawk. GO KU!!! Have a safe week.