Abstract
The Internet's substantial growth has resulted in an increase in sophisticated
security problems. The latest fad is network monitoring, or packet sniffing,
whereby hackers collect account authorization data and use it to intrude on
the Internet. To avoid this threat, users should get rid of any reusable,
standard passwords and start utilizing one-time passwords only. Shadow
passwords can also be used to avoid disclosing encrypted passwords. Security
problems can also be avoided by verifying the proper system and service
configurations. Systems managers should stay current with the latest software
releases and bug fixes, utilize secure programming techniques and implement
auditing programs to collect access data. Individual users should make an
effort to understand and respect their site's security policies, utilize
available resources to protect their data, and follow Internet etiquette
carefully. A list of resources for securing networks and systems is provided.
