Koobface is a classic example of a worm that spreads via social networking sites such as Facebook, Bebo, and Friendster. Koobface has been particularly problematic for Facebook users and maintains a rather consistent presence among Facebook social network users. Following are four easy-to-follow tips that can help you avoid infection by Koobface and other social networking worms.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Ongoing
Here's How:
- Avoid promiscuous friending. Spammers, phishers, and worm distributors abound on social networking sites. Rather than attempting to win an imaginary and virtual popularity contest, demonstrate your self-confidence and restraint by not accepting friend invites from strangers. Your real friends will appreciate it.
- Log out of the social networking site when it's not being used. Worms like Koobface can only spread when you are logged on to Facebook or other social networking account. Staying logged off when not in use can help minimize the potential for spreading Koobface or other social networking worms.
- Use a unique strong password on each account. If you have multiple social networking accounts, use a unique password for each. For an easy to remember secure method, see: Creating and Maintaing Strong Passwords.
- Never click links in messages received unexpectedly and never, ever login to any site as a result of clicking a link in a message. If you do follow a link that instructs you to login afterwards, close the page, then open a new page and visit the site using a previously bookmarked or known good link.
