The Biggest Threat to Internet Security ... Maybe

Even though you have software to protect your computer from viruses, you may not be aware of bigger threats than a simple email worm (and we're not talking about friends hacking your Facebook account and posting a picture of Richard Simmons on your profile).

Recently, Internet security experts revealed a flaw in the way users navigate the Internet that could leave you vulnerable. In fact, the whole Internet could potentially be disabled, bringing to mind the old Millennium Bug scare of 2000 that now seems so, well, last millennium.



Whenever you type in a web address, root DNS servers automatically translate that address into the numerical code system used by all Internet servers and websites. The new flaw could let hackers change those translations and redirect your traffic without you even knowing it. For instance, you may think you are going to your banking website but instead be redirected to a copycat site, where you put in your information and immediately give somebody else your account numbers and passwords.

It's not quite as scary as it sounds, yet. The DNS servers have been fixed to avoid immediate problems. But it's still a good idea to record the IP address (the eight to twelve digit number separated by three dots that is unique to every website) of all the secure websites where you store personal information or put in passwords. You can find out the IP address of websites with the help of http://www.hostip.info/.

As for the potential to crash the entire Internet, we're skeptical as to why anyone would do that when there is more money to be made by keeping the Internet alive. Maybe somebody will try to hold the Internet hostage, and then Hollywood can make a movie about it.

You can see our reviews of the best Internet Security Suites here at TopTenREVIEWS.

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The Future Is Bright. The Future Is Promising. The Future Is, uh, Lame?