The Security Zealot

The latest threat of present day Halloween is not that of ghosts, spirits or the threats I covered in the last entry. No, this one is a logically threat, one set by a hoax. A hoax which helps spread one of the nastiest worms that is publicly known on the World Wide Web called the Storm Worm/Botnet/Trojan.

In it’s last vector, is seems that is embedded with a Halloween Site, with dancing skeletons according to Network World.

Mr. Schneier has a great article on the Storm Worm.

In closing, don’t be surprise to see a Thanksgiving e-card and the next “Elf Bowling” site with a surprise package of the Storm Worm.

SZ

Yes it is time again for my favorite holiday…. The time when the old dusty cobweb ridden houses are in style and the night filled with screams and sugar induced stomach aches for children and adults alike.

Although this is what many of us remember from out childhoods, it seems each year crimes increase during this night. It once was the scare of “poison candy” or a “razor apple” has now moved to mob attacks to robberies and hate crimes. Not to mention the growing list of sex offenders which seem to lurk in every neighborhood.

Some tips for a safe Halloween.

1. Never allow children to “Trick or Treat” without an adult.

2. Always travel in a group (3 or more).

3. Carry a flash light or chem-lite so that you are visible from the road.

4. Consider carrying a whistle or other personnel safety device such a mace. (Great for stray dogs as well as humans).

5. Carry a charged cell phone in case of an emergency.

6. Notify family and friends of where you will be and what time you are expected home. (Use cell phone if you are running late.)

7. “Trick or Treat” in neighborhoods you are familiar with.

For your house protection:

1. Check fire alarms and extinguishers.

2. Keep house locked and other items secured to reduce them from “walking” off your property.

3. Look before opening your door. (Don’t try to give candy to the 39 year old drunk guy who is standing there with just a mask and no kids in site. )

And above all have a SAFE HALLOWEEN!!!!

TRICK OR TREAT!!

Well, I have started the first of hopefully many submissions to my new blog.

Why another security blog? Well, I believe that communication and education are key parts of life. In order for a person to become secure both in the virtual and physical world, we must communicate and educate one another.

I have been in the Security Field for over 12 years and I will be the first to admit that I have a lot to learn. Only through communication with my peers and other in and around this vast field will I ever get better.

-The Security Zealot