Ubuntu security - spyware, viruses, cache cleaning, etc.

[Zach]

Your question is a controversial one, and it looks like the replies
here pretty much cover all the bases, but I figured I'd though my
US$.02 in as well.

The "come to Linux, we don't have viruses" sales pitch, I think is a
bit risky, and may catch up with us.

For the time being linux isn't targeted by spyware and viruses, but
that doesn't mean it's invulnerable.  If we all have our way and linux
becomes a prevelent desktop OS then all the problems of fame and
fortune that plague windows (or at least some) will come along as
well.

At any rate, it's always good to maintain a good security posture
regardless what OS you run.  For example, don't install software
unless you trust where it came from.

A host based firewall (e.g., firestarter) combined with a nat router
makes for a very defensible position.

ClamAV (was it already mentioned?  I didn't read the whole thread) is
an easy to use antivirus scanner than can be set to update and scan
automatically.  At the very least you want to avoid unwittingly
passing malware on to others.

On 9/23/05, Marc <for.maillists at gmail.com> wrote:
> As a soon-to-be former Windoze user i tried to be strict on security,
> such as installing anti-spyware, anti-virus and cache, history,
> Interent, Windoze cleaning progs. Are any of these types of progs
> needed for Ubuntu (Linux)?
>
> I am using Firefox and i know it has the Clear All feature in the
> Preferences. But is it enough? Or is it?
>
> Any help/advice is greatly appreciated. And remember i am still an
> Ubuntu newbie.
> Thanks.
> --
> Soon.
> Marc
> "The world is not ours to do with as we please. We are only borrowing
> it from our children."
>
> --
> ubuntu-users mailing list
> ubuntu-users at lists.ubuntu.com
> http://lists.ubuntu.com/mailman/listinfo/ubuntu-users
>


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