computer security and privacy

A small program that gets installed on a computer while browsing the Internet. The basic function of active content is to provide an interactive Internet experience through videos and toolbars. Sometimes, active content is used to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then damage the data stored on it or install malicious software on it.

• active content

• cache memory

• cookie

• spam

The act or instance of making a duplicate copy of a program, a disk, or data. The duplicate copy is called a backup.

• cache memory

• backup

• copyright

• encryption

Temporary memory on your computer that is sometimes used to store local copies of files opened when you browse the Internet.

• backup

• firewall

• cache memory

• encryption

Keeping a user’s data, including personal files and e-mail messages, such that the data is not accessible by anyone without appropriate permission

• encryption

• copyright

• computer privacy

• hacker

A small file on a computer that is created when a user visits a Web site. A Web site uses cookies to identify users who visit the site, and also track the preferences of the users.

• cache memory

• active content

• firewall

• cookie

A method of protecting the rights of an originator of a creative work, such as text, piece of music, painting, or computer program, through law.

• copyright

• encryption

• computer privacy

• decryption

The process of reconverting the encrypted data into a readable and usable form.

• copyright

• firewall

• decryption

• computer security

The process of converting data into an unreadable and unusable form. Encryption is done to prevent unauthorized access of data, especially during data transmission over the Internet.

• encryption

• decryption

• cookie

• backup

A filter that blocks unreliable and unauthorized information from the Internet before it reaches your computer or a private network. It provides additional protection against threats such as hackers and viruses. A firewall also helps to ensure computer privacy by restricting external access by any unauthorized user.

• cookie

• active content

• firewall

• encryption

A person who uses computer expertise to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then misuses or tampers the programs and data stored on the computer.

• hacker

• encrypt

• firewall

• programmer