Glossary of Terms

Antivirus Software
Computer programs that scan for, detect and eliminate malicious software and viruses from your computer. You should periodically download the latest versions of antivirus software to protect your computer from new viruses. No antivirus software offers total protection, so it is important to only download programs from secure sites or open email attachments if you know the sender.

Encryption
One of the most effective methods for making sure information on a website or in an email message cannot be read by a third party is encryption. This technique involves scrambling data entered on websites to make it unintelligible to unauthorized parties. Encryption is often used on websites that conduct e-commerce and store personal information.

Firewall
A firewall is a system that prevents unauthorized access to corporate, private and home networks. It is similar to a locked door that can only be opened with the proper key. An enterprise with an intranet that allows its workers access to the wider Internet typically will install a firewall to prevent outsiders from accessing its own private data resources.

Identity Theft
This occurs when your name and personal information are stolen and used for fraudulent purposes, typically for financial gain. Identity theft is most commonly seen in relation to credit card fraud.

Enhanced Login Security
Banterra's Enhanced Login Security will strengthen security at login by providing an additional authentication "factor" beyond the username and password.

Phishing
"Phishing" (pronounced "fishing") is the act of sending an e-mail that fraudulently represents a legitimate company and "lures" you into divulging personal and financial information that could then be used for identity theft. Phishing is becoming more popular because of the ease with which unsuspecting people often divulge personal information to phishers, including Social Security numbers and mothers' maiden names.

PIN (Personal Identification Number)
A confidential number created in order for a system to authenticate you as the proper user, often used for ATM access with a banking card.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)
A protocol designed to create a secure connection over the Internet while web browsing. SSL works by creating a temporary, shared code between two computers, allowing you to transmit personal data securely. A site using SSL will display the image of a lock in the bottom-right corner of the status bar. You also may set your browser to alert you if you enter a site not secured through SSL.

Shoulder Surfers
People who stand behind you at an ATM and try to steal your PIN number and password as you type them in. Shoulder surfing is particularly effective in crowded places because it's relatively easy to stand next to someone and watch as they fill out a form or enter their PIN at an ATM.

Skimming
Thieves implant a data storage device at an ATM or retail checkout terminal that reads (or "skims") the magnetic strip on your credit or debit card. You still have your card, but the thieves have your card number and can create a counterfeit version of your card.

Social engineering
Obtaining confidential information through the manipulation of legitimate users. A social engineer commonly uses the phone or Internet to trick people into revealing sensitive information. Social engineers exploit the natural tendency of a person to trust their word, rather than exploit computer security holes. The simplest ploy is to pretend to be an administrator and request a password for various purposes.

Spyware
A software application that can be remotely installed (by a pop-up or virus) on any computer that you are using (your home PC, an Internet café, library computer, etc.) without your knowledge. Spyware lets a thief track everything you do online. More benign programs attempt to track what types of websites a user visits then sends this information to an advertisement agency. More malicious versions try to intercept passwords or credit card numbers.