Windows security musts at Nobullshit Network Forum

NelsonN · 03-27-2007, 07:31 PM

If you need to save sensitive information in text files, use Steganos' LockNote program to password encrypt and protect the data. Uses AES 256-bit encryption technology.

Don't use IE, it sucks as far as security goes which is everything if you bank online. Use FireFox with these add-ons:

Key Scrambler - Although this add-on is not open source it's free version does protect you from key loggers when you are about to enter your user id and password on any web forms online. It encrypts your key strokes from the keyboard driver all the way to the browser. The commercial version does this for all your OS key strokes.

NoScript -This is another awesome security add-on. This one will not allow any website to run scripts unless you tell NoScript to allow them to do so.

whizzer · 03-28-2007, 01:52 AM

Additional from above tools:

TrueCrypt (not open source, but free):
TrueCrypt (Windows Vista/XP/2000 and Linux) (encryption)

Open source alternative to Roboform:
SourceForge.net: KeePass Password Safe / KeePass homepage

Advanced users can check out Core Force firewall:
Core Force Firewall

... needless to say, you should have a properly configured hardware firewall (in addition to your software firewall) and anti- virus/trojan/rootkit installed as base.

**Jude** · 03-28-2007, 03:03 AM

Free Anti-virus to download in case you think you won't wanna spend any money on AV protection. They work as great as paid versions, but you can always check on what you features you don't get with the free ones as explained on their FAQs.

And places to get free scanning online without installing your AV program (which is not really a recommended step, but you can always double confirm with the latest scans from..)

If you don't mind paying for a good AV, this will be a good resouce for you to check on ratings of each and how well they score with malware and viruses

VirusBTN

**sharonsopinion** · 03-28-2007, 03:07 AM

Let's not forget about Roboform. It is hands-down the best password generator/saver out there.

JMO,
Sharon

**opie999** · 03-28-2007, 03:41 AM

I've been using Cryptainer LE for encrypting data on my HD for over a year. Very happy with it.
Cryptainer LE - Software Downloads and Reviews

Roboform is super convenient the way it integrates with FireFox. Only downside is you have to pay for it if you need more than 10 passwords (which I do). I've used KeePass for several months and I like it a lot. It's completely free because it's open source. One feature I especially like is the option for creating a CD key. The CD must then be inserted before entering your password to unlock KeePass. It creates a physical security layer.
KeePass Password Safe - Software Downloads and Reviews

whizzer · 03-28-2007, 04:14 AM

Cryptainer seems similar to TrueCrypt.

While Cryptainer LE (light edition?) uses a less powerful 128bit blowfish encryption TrueCrypt uses either a 256bit AES, serpent or twofish. You can if you so wish, use all three at the same time (chained mode).

Also, LE version is limited to 25mb containers (while TrueCrypt have none).

Even if the PE (professional edition, non-free) have 448bit encryption and higher size limitations, I'm uncertain how this would compare to a 256bit*3 encryption.

Also TrueCrypt also have additional features such as a hidden container in the container.

**sharonsopinion** · 03-28-2007, 04:24 AM

woot! Da techies are in da house!!

archsage · 03-28-2007, 09:19 AM

Hi everyone. First post here.

I have personally used PasswordSafe and KeePass. I am now using KeePass because it is FREE and they have a portable version (no need to install, just double-click the exe and run! Get it at PortableApps.com - Portable software for USB drives | Your Digital Life, Anywhereâ„¢)

As for Anti-virus, I have used AVG (Free as mentioned by Jude) and AntiVir (get it at AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic - More than Security) but I like AVG.

As for Anti-spyware, you can either use MS Windows Defender or Spyware Terminator with REALTIME protection unlike others (it is also FREE. Get it at Spyware Terminator - Spyware & Adware Real-Time Protection)

There is also a promising free Anti-virus and firewall tool called Comodo AntVirus and Comodo Firewall that you might want to check out as well (SSL Certificates Two Factor Authentication Security Services from Comodo™ Certification Authority) to include in your arsenal of defence.

ALL FREE!!

**opie999** · 03-28-2007, 02:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whizzer

Cryptainer seems similar to TrueCrypt.

While Cryptainer LE (light edition?) uses a less powerful 128bit blowfish encryption TrueCrypt uses either a 256bit AES, serpent or twofish. You can if you so wish, use all three at the same time (chained mode).

Also, LE version is limited to 25mb containers (while TrueCrypt have none).

Even if the PE (professional edition, non-free) have 448bit encryption and higher size limitations, I'm uncertain how this would compare to a 256bit*3 encryption.

Also TrueCrypt also have additional features such as a hidden container in the container.

Cool!
I'll be looking at TreueCrypt ASAP!
Thanks, whizzer!

**opie999** · 03-28-2007, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by archsage

Hi everyone. First post here.

I have personally used PasswordSafe and KeePass. I am now using KeePass because it is FREE and they have a portable version (no need to install, just double-click the exe and run! Get it at PortableApps.com - Portable software for USB drives | Your Digital Life, Anywhereâ„¢)

Hi, archsage.

I'm currently using Portable FireFox (available at same link above) and KeePass on a 256MB flash drive. It's a great combo! In fact, I'm using it right now (I'm at work).

I highly recommend it to anyone who surfs the web away from home. Internet cafe, library, work, etc.