Internet Security - today's malicious code does not just encompass viruses that target your computer--it targets you!

Today Internet security concerns itself well beyond viruses. As security threats have grown, the term malware has been adopted by security experts to describe all malicious code.

We all need to realize that this malicious code targets you, not just your computer. Criminals increasingly use viruses and worms to traffic in stolen credit card numbers and identity information to ensnare their victims.

And viruses are only one of many threats to computer security on the Internet. To trick recipients into revealing banking or credit card information, some spam e-mail messages use so-called phishing (as in fishing) schemes, to trick recipients into revealing banking or credit card information.

Evil minded advertisers hijack victims' browsers or install spying software by using spurious pop-ups that exploit operating system weaknesses.

To combat this army of invaders, Internet security requires defense strategies that include in-depth, multiple barriers between the malware and your system.

Many homes and businesses use routers to share a broadband connection. A firewall forms the first line of defense against hackers, worms, spyware, and other evils. Firewalls and antivirus scanners play valuable roles in protecting your system.

However, several types of marketing-driven parasites that fall under the general heading of spyware may be missed by these Internet security defenders.

Internet security becomes ever more challenging as spyware typically monitors your Internet use, typically to determine what you do online and to deliver targeted advertising.

It is not unusual for shareware and freeware programs to have spyware packaged within them. When you accept “end user licensing agreements” for this "free" software, you will likely not be aware of the real cost - you implicitly agree to allow third party remote monitoring.

These unscrupulous marketers are ultimately interested in collecting marketing data or serving targeted ads.

As part of your research into options to ensure protection for yourself and your computer, you may want to learn more about free-norton-anti-virus software.